Cars are heavily subsidized

Often, those who oppose infrastructure for other modes of transportation, particularly Bike networks, argue bike users should pay tax (“fair share”) like motorists and bike users are subsidized. However, this may be misguided.

First, bike users pay property taxes and other taxes to the city, which are used to build and maintain local roads. The interstate roads maintained by the state are only used by cars and the tax revenue does not cover the cost of road infrastructure. In other words, car users are subsidized to use state roads and highways.

Second, local roads are maintained by the cities.

Third, “free” parking.