[volguus zildrohar]

The system is comprehensive, true, particularly in comparison to many other major US cities. It's a lack of vision and competent management (and a feckless union) that keeps it mired in the depths.

I read an article in the NYT yesterday about Phoenix's new light rail line and how it is essesntially a party train - most people who ride it take it into downtown to party and hang out. Comparatively few use it for commuting. That can't be said here.

There's a tier system if one wants to compare transit systems across the country and despite its problems SEPTA would be on the first tier.