In almost every case, the public significantly underestimates the cost of building and operating mass transit systems. This misperception about costs is particularly true regarding the costs of building rail-based mass transit systems. A third important finding is that citizens consistently favor improved public transit for transportation-disadvantaged persons, such as the elderly and the disabled. The public feels this service should be provided by society. Unfortunately, the public also considerably underestimates the true costs of improving transportation services for the elderly and disabled.
Citizens believe that significant improvement can be made with nominal funding increases.
Fourth, while there is considerable support for an intricate rail system along Colorado's Front Range, there is very little understanding about the most appropriate use of different rail technologies. Additionally, a strong misperception also exists about the cost of building and operating rail-based systems. There is a perception that because of their efficiency, these systems are not expensive and may even be less expensive than buses. Many indicate a reluctance to get involved in the process because they believe their input would not be taken seriously by officials. The perception of affecting the outcome of decisions is just as important to the public as having an opportunity to give input.