Laterun,

I used to think like you regarding public transit, that the price of the ride should cover the cost of the ride. Problem is, at that price, many to most of those riders would choose to drive instead, making traffic congestion that much worse - for you and me. At some point there is a cost balance of what it's worth to me to have fewer cars on the road when I'm trying to get to work. It's convoluted to be sure, but most people can see that increasing traffic congestion does not look like any kind of desirable alternative, let alone a solution.

Whether bus drivers are paid too much probably depends on whether the transit agency can get equally qualified and skilled drivers at less cost. In the present economy it's almost a certainty. Therefore the union ought to consider that in their contract negotiations.

Sg