The competition for a rapid mass transit system is the personal automobile, not other transit systems. It is true that such a system would need to be considered the best of transit systems to be chosen by decision-makers for its construction. But to succeed in attracting riders, it must be a better option than the automobile. It must be nearly as accessible, but faster, safer, more predictable and reliable. Its use must be desired, not mandated. And this desirability must be considered from the perspective of the individual user. For drivers, the cost of buying or leasing a car can be a substantial burden when the cost of gas, maintenance, insurance and depreciation are included. For non-drivers, people who either do not have a car or who simply choose to avoid the dangers of traffic congestion, transit can provide a safe, worry-free and convenient means of getting around. In both cases, riders expect the best service at the lowest cost.