You know what really "cleans up" public transportation? More people riding it than just those who have no other choice. I grew up in Boston, lots of people rode the subway, I never felt unsafe. Now I live in Phoenix, the bus system sucks so bad I couldn't even tell you what it feels like to ride one because I never have, anywhere I want to go would take at least 2 routes if not 3, with nearly an hour wait at each connection, I could seriously ride a bicycle there quicker, and have, even in 110°+ heat, at least in my younger days- damn near gave myself heat stroke last time I tried which was ~5 years ago... I have at least ridden the light rail, which isn't terrible, but doesn't run very frequently, and isn't that close to my house, and doesn't go that many interesting places... I could take the kids to the science center, but it's a bit long for them to walk to our nearest stop, about a mile and a half... There's a park & ride, but at that point, we might as well take the car...