Missing from the discussions in Amsterdam is the question: is it still a good idea and investment?
Lets do a quick calculation.
Lets assume the costs increase even more, from the current projection of costs of Euro 2 billion to Euro 2.5 billion. Depreciation time 50 years, interest rate 5 %.
It is estimated by many experts that on average 200.000 people will use this metro-line per day.
This means per user per day: 0,68 Euro depreciation, 1,20 Euro interest (or per year accumulated 50 and 87 mio). Which in real terms will be reduced to 1/3 after 50 years if we assume an inflation of 2 % per year.
If we assume this is interest paid to our own pension funds, so to our children, do you think it is worth the investment? Just look at the map of Amsterdam, see the connection with Schiphol and the big railway hub created in the south of Amsterdam. Think about the required shift in mobility, from cars to public transportation.
You can be sure many people and many visitors will use this line extensively.
I believe it is very much worth the effort.
