"Transportation systems have been a government function since the Romans started building roads and can't exist unless all taxpayers - not just those who use them - support them.
Airlines use airports that today are largely self-sufficient, collecting revenue from passengers. But most of them - including Philadelphia International - were built years ago at taxpayer expense. The air-traffic control system is supported both by user fees and all taxpayers. Some of the cost of aviation security also is borne by all of us.
Likewise, highways and city streets aren't built and maintained solely with gasoline tax revenue from motorists. When you back out of your driveway to start an out-of-town trip, you're on a public street that your property and income taxes helped pay for, on your way to an airport your grandparents helped build."
Winging It: Amtrak will be key part of Obama's plans | Philadelphia Inquirer | 11/17/2008
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