The following sections examine the amount of investment need which remains after reasonable cost savings are taken into account, and options for raising the necessary monies. There may be a legitimate need for additional taxes to fund increased investments, but legislators and the public will have to judge whether the investment generates sufficient benefits to justify a tax increase or a reallocation of general fund spending that would make the funds available. At least in the short term, it is likely that private investment of an equal amount would generate greater returns than public investment. However, over the long term, the economy requires a strong transportation infrastructure, and with careful investment, such spending can increase productivity and competitiveness, lower damage and repair costs for auto owners, and improve the quality of life for drivers.