Keala R. Kaanui, The estimated subsidy for rail operations is based on ridership projections because it has to cover what fares don't cover.  For the Honolulu rail project the projections are overblown compared to actual ridership of similar projects in cities of similar size.  In other words, the estimated subsidy is likely to be too low, and Oahu taxpayers are going to have to pay more to keep rail running.