train system (Atlanta, Savannah: transport companies, income, property taxes)

[ericsteward2003]

Why won't this state build a train system to connect the major cities?

[GABOY84]

Originally Posted by ericsteward2003

Why won't this state build a train system to connect the major cities?

It is trying, but it is very expensive to do so. The South has lagged as a whole when it comes to mass transit. MARTA in Atlanta is a joke for a city of that size.

[Hot_Mike]

Georgia Intercity Rail System is the project that is what you want.

"According to Ware, a line would connect Augusta to Atlanta through Athens and another would connect Augusta directly to Savannah. Though it wouldn’t be part of the high-speed infrastructure, he says the routes will appear in the 2011 state rail plan."
-Metro Spirit
Augusta Independent Voice

[jetgraphics]

Why won't Georgia government build rail or why won't private enterprise build rail transportation?

1. Government,
2. Government, and
3. Government.

[] Private rail is/was taxed out of profitability with respect to passenger transportation. Rail companies had to pay income taxes, property taxes, and indirectly subsidize their competitors - the airlines and paved road based common carriers.
[] Cheap and plentiful oil fueled the death of electric powered rail.
[] Political skullduggery also interfered with rail mass transit.

Solution?
Zero tax - on rail transport companies and their personnel. Instead of giving tax money (after a political battle, and red tape), just waive taxes on rail transport. At the worst, if they're unprofitable, they won't waste tax payer money. At the best, there will be a rush of investment money, seeking tax free profits.

A rapid development of electric powered rail will relieve the traffic congestion, air quality problems, and vise grip that oil based transportation systems have on Georgia - and Atlanta.