Build it and they will come...

 

[This is a response to "METRO RAIL PICKING UP STEAM" from A GREAT CITIZEN]

...is what I told a staunch libertarian not too far back when we were discussing the plans for the MetroRail, which at the time was still in its planning stage. He had insisted that this was just another example of wasteful government spending and cited polls showing that rider ship would not be anywhere near a reasonable level-- people would rather ride in their cars.

Naturally, I was thrilled to read your blog and realize that the statement I made to my libertarian friend was more than just a tongue-in-cheek movie reference. Despite polls showing that people had only a lukewarm interest in riding the MetroRail, once it was put right in front of their faces it was too good to resist. I think the MetroRail is an excellent step towards planning for the future infrastructure of an incredibly fast growing city. In 10 years, when gas prices are $10 a gallon and the population of Austin is far greater than I-35 can sustain, we will be glad that we started expanding a network of rails before we hit a crisis point in public transportation.

You made a compelling argument for the growing popularity of the MetroRail. The only thing that I would add to your blog is that this issue can be tied in with a larger ideological dilemma facing both Texas and the US. There is something we can learn from this situation.

Investments in our society aren't just lavish, nice things to have; investments are practical NESCITIES that will yield a GREAT return in the future. Conservatives are always calling for fiscal responsibility, but I think fiscal responsibility means more than just limiting spending. Fiscal responsibility means that sometimes we have to SPEND money on our future in a way that will either SAVE us money down the line or GENERATE economic potential. The MetroRail represents both. Greater access to downtown Austin is great for local businesses (especially during SxSW, as you already mentioned) and establishing an infrastructure of rails before demand goes through the roof will allow for better planning and more efficient spending.