Funding
The initial system is projected to cost approximately US$103 million. Mayor Coleman has proposed a funding plan which will rely on fees rather than income or property taxes. The majority of the funding will come from sources within a "benefit zone" which is the area within six blocks of the route. A 4% surcharge would be added to concert, sport, and theatre tickets with a face value above $10. Parking meter rates would be raised by 75ยข per hour, and all money from meters in the area would go to funding the streetcar. Off street parking in lots and garages would also be subject to the 4% fee. The Ohio State University pledged to provide $12.5 million over 25 years. Various small federal grants are also expected to support the streetcar.
The funding system was designed such that Columbus residents who live in suburban areas far away from the line will not have any of their tax dollars diverted to fund the system. It is not yet clear how people who work downtown and park in employer owned garages would be affected.
Read more about this topic: Columbus Streetcar