Most of the time, the public transit options can't possibly be good enough.

For example, when I consider riding public transit I'm always comparing that option against driving my own car which 1) runs when I want it to run (so I'm never having to leave early or wait late for a route), 2) goes exactly where I want it to go (I'm never dropped off 3/4 of a mile away from where I want to go), 3) is clean, 4) has climate control options that ensure my comfort (so I'm always the perfect temperature, and am shielded from the elements) and 5) has music and other entertainment options.

I spent significant time in Chicago and utilized public transit extensively when I was there - and I regularly ride the Frontrunner to work. For me, the common denominators that pushed me to public transit are:

• Traffic. I-15 is brutal during rush hour and Chicago was even worse
• Parking. If I have to hunt for and pay for parking, my car becomes an inconvenience
• Ability to multitask. If I have a long commute, the ability to work during that commute is invaluable

But I'm never going to pick public transit over a car if traffic won't be bad/the commute won't be long/parking won't be a hassle.

Happy to discuss data if you have data.