| Denzera, you surely must agree that public transportation rates aren't determined solely on the basis of economic efficiency. Rather, the rates reflect social engineering and politicians' need to appease various constituencies. If the MTA tried to start charging higher rates for longer rides, you'd hear the usual class warfare crap getting thrown around nonstop.
The Asian subways are able to efficiently charge you based on your usage. DC's profitability is problematic because of their inefficient union contracts, not because of the fare structure. |