Limitations of public resources allocated to passenger rail services, combined with restrictions on ownership of rails and rights of way, leave government-sponsored passenger rail services as the least funded of all mass transportation services. Unable to combine or enter into any form of public or private joint development or joint operation with other transportation modes or systems, passenger rail service providers are forced to make the most of their limited options and resources.
At current funding levels, passenger rail services will continue to fall short of their objectives as attractive and efficient alternatives to urban and suburban commuters, and the resulting reduction of vehicle trips and traffic congestion that they would promote. The mission of publicly funded passenger rail services should be reassessed and redirected toward a more effective and efficient use of mass transportation authority and funding.
