Jammed transit systems running on fumes - Consumer news- msnbc.com

Jammed transit systems running on fumes - Consumer news- msnbc.com

"Transportation experts who have pushed mass transit since the 1970s are getting their wish as soaring gas prices persuade Americans to abandon their cars for buses and trains in record numbers. But as the adage says, be careful what you wish for."

Standing room only on buses sounds like a great thing for mass transit advocates. However, transit authorities are paying huge sums for fuel while revenue from gasoline taxes are down. It's a topsy, turvey time in our nation's transportation history. Records are being smashed in every direction whether it be the price of fuel or the number of mass transit riders. I'm still very convinced that much of this is the work of speculative investing, but no matter we're having to deal with the aftermath. I'm happy to see people turning to mass transit and I hope that the systems will not only stand up to the pressure, but convince folks that long after this upheaval is over that there are alternatives commuting as a solo driver.