Given recent history, it does not seem credible that the NCRA-NWP could operate for long without being on taxpayer life support. SMART must recognize this fact but it being very cagey about it.

With streetcars SMART could operate reasonably safely with flyovers phased in at congested crossings as money becomes available. Of course the more grade separation the better. I submit that electric operation is worth the extra cost because of superior performance and ridership appeal. And would be safer(55 mph typical operating speed).

SMART is presenting us with a scheme that offers very little present or future potential. I can't see the percentage in taking such a defeatist attitude about extending toward San Francisco. It is not helping either that zero leadership is coming from the City. At the very least space for light rail should be left in the Doyle Drive plan. We have some really slippery politicos in the Bay Ares.