Gubernatorial Candidates Agree On Transit Rail – They Say It Would Be Nice, But Hard to Afford

The state’s candidates for governor agree that Tennessee could use a statewide mass-transit rail network. They also agree that it can’t afford such a project anytime soon.

The candidates agree such a project could drive development, as well as ease pressure on clogged interstates. And several called to quickly begin assessing the need for and planning a statewide rail network.

Republican Ron Ramsey says careful research will be key, so the state doesn’t commit funding to a plan unless it sustains itself financially.

“We could figure out this will actually either pay for itself through the jobs that it creates, or pay for itself by the rider fees that are on there. But I don’t want to ever be in a situation where we’re taking your taxpayer dollars and funding them into a losing proposition here in the state of Tennessee.”

Several candidates cautioned the state has to be realistic about its budget situation. Tennessee has taken in less money than expected in sales taxes for almost two straight years.

–

To hear a complete response from most of the Democratic and Republican candidates on statewide mass-transit, click below.

In order, the candidates answering are Democrat Mike McWherter, Ramsey, Republican Zach Wamp, Republican Bill Gibbons, and Democrat Kim McMillan.

Knoxville Republican Bill Haslam is not included as he was absent from yesterday’s forum.