AMERICA--ON THE ROAD TO MASS TRANSIT

More and more, communities are turning to mass transit systems to alleviate problems of air pollution, dependence on foreign oil, and traffic congestion. Yet, current transportation systems are inadequate. Few American metropolitan cities have fixed-rail mass transit systems, and those that do have them are not using them efficiently and effectively. This paper explores the transportation situation affecting our cities by examining the sources of the problem. It begins with a discussion of current transportation and controlling federal laws. The second section sets forth alternative transit systems and ways for local governments to increase ridership. Alternatives discussed include smart cars and smart highways, bus systems, light rail, heavy rail, and ideas ranging from magnetically levitated trains to monorails. Funding sources for municipalities considering mass transit systems is the focus of the next section. Finally, a cost-benefit analysis provides a comparison between continued use of funds for highway projects and use of funds for mass transit systems.