Posted By:
BryanMike, I agree with you. The train is a money pit. Yesterday I heard a stat that it is estimated the train costs $20 per ride, yet the fee is $2.75.
What I don't agree with you is people do use the train during rush hour. It is usually fairly full. Beyond the rush hour traffic however, yes it is simply a government subsidized transportation tool for some of the lower class.
I take the I-35 bridge every day (well, used to take it.) The Twin Cities area is so hung up and building rail lines that they are neglecting other traffic issues. An ammendment was just passed dedicating the sales tax from auto sales to be used specifically for "transportation" issues. What was not fully understood is that AT LEAST 60% MUST be used for rail and NO MORE than 40% can be used for roadways.
Now a plan is in place to build a rail line between Minneapolis and St Paul for $1.4 billion. Not only will this train be slower than the current bus line but it will destroy neighborhoods along the corridor. In comparison, at $1.4 billion the entire 494/694 loop could be widened by one lane. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know which serves the greater good.
(Edited to remove comment directed to Minnesota's baseball card collecting token liberal.)