Last week I suggested in the Post Local Blogging Network that Phase Two of the Silver Line may not be the best investment, because we could accomplish more for the same cost using streetcars and BRT. I stand by that statement, but practically speaking it comes too late. The decision has been made and the funding streams are in place.

But while it may be too late for the Silver Line, some day our region will face the same question again: Invest in a single extension of Metro, or build a whole network of less expensive light rail. I hope when that time comes, we will learn from the past and invest in a larger regional network.

In a post today at Greater Greater Washington, I retool my original Washington Post column to accept the Silver Line, but express hope for a different decision next time.