Comment I just posted on the DNT site concerning their article-
So lets start with the concept that our Highway 35 is also subsidized, all transportation is to an extent. Right? Well maybe not walking, but even your bikes require tax supported maintenance of a roadbed of some kind.

Sure, this is a gamble. All investment is. I think it is ok to admit that, and this is the way I see the gamble. How long will the cost of making the trip by auto to the Cities be less than a train ticket? How many years will it take for highway travel as we enjoy it now to become just a thing for the economically privileged? Maybe 10 years, maybe 30. But when it does, every year thereafter the economics and profitability will only get better. And this switching point is going to take place, its only a matter of when. http://www.theoildrum.com/
So the gamble is "what are the negative economic effects of putting off building significant transportation infrastructure till the very last moment of need, possibly when everyone else is wanting it and having to suffer inevitable supply/demand/price consequences?"
This issue serves to create a good discussion of future transportation costs , the effects of failing to plan, and what may be the most prudent strategy to follow now.