Dan Wrote:
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> I'm curious about the facts. Specifically, which
> is the cause and which is the effect. Seems to me
> that people with more money and better jobs are
> likely to have higher incomes and nicer cars.
> Seems like BS that having a car makes you more
> money. Mine seems to work the other way around.
> If I could avoid owning a car, I'd have
> significantly more disposable income that wasn't
> spent on licensing, insurance, repairs, gas, etc.
> etc. Not to mention buying the damn thing in the
> first place.

I think what the so-called "Wheels to wealth" group envisions is elimination of all mass transit and using that money for vouchers for poor people to buy used cars so they can get to jobs in suburban locations. (No consideration for those who are physically unable to drive - maybe the vouchers could be used for taxis).

The reality is that in many metro areas, some of the best job opportunities for people with limited education and and work experience are located in the fringes of urban areas where public transportation options are limited. For some people, the best strategy would be to use public funds to buy cars for them.

However, Dan, I agree with your basic point. While I own a car (good for railfanning), I live in an urban neighborhood with good bus service and where I can walk to many places. As a result, money saved through reduced spending on gasoline and other expenses associated with driving can be used to support my railfan hobby! :)