Over time, mass transit options would become more cost effective and more socially desirable. Initially, these would begin with enhanced bus systems, but would gradually progress to various forms of fixed rail systems as well. The increasing efficacy of these systems would further diminish the reliance on the private gasoline-powered automobile. Motor vehicle travel has long been subsidized. Revenues based on vehicle use cover only 60 percent of the costs of building and maintaining roads and bridges.
Heavy trucks inflict at least twice the pavement damage charged to their account.
Moreover, employer-provided parking is subsidized through federal tax policy. To these direct subsidies must be added the social costs of vehicle use, such as traffic deaths and injuries, air pollution, congestion, and energy dependence on unstable foreign sources. MacKenzie, Dower and Chen. What It Really Costs to Drive , page 24. There is no estimating the costs we 're paying in our social environ-ment, declining urban communities, and diminishing land resources.