The streetcar line would cost a good deal less to build and operate than the light rail line, but there is no reason why a city and metropolitan area the size of Baltimore could not afford to build and operate both. Both these lines would require creative financing that would draw on state and local public funds, as well as substantial contributions from the private business community. Federal financial assistance would also be very helpful. But even if it were not available right now under current political realities, the two projects might still be able to go forward. A 44-page report, "Local Funding Options for Public Transportation," released last month from the respected Victorian Transport Policy Institute, explores the advantages and disadvantages of 18 local funding options for public transportation.