Roland, thank you for this informative post.

Definately try to split the difference. Let Trimet pass holders go for free and sell multi-ticket packages for the tram only. Charge $6-$8 for single tickets. Tourists and people who ride for fun twice per year won't care. If it only costs $4, tourists won't think it's worth doing. Do PR promotions like "Two Dollar Tuesdays" or "Free Fridays" or something to keep us locals happy.

Some of the operating costs could be recaptured, but not at the expense of regular commuters (or whoever is going to depend on the tram. I'm not sure who will be riding it on a regular basis other than OHSU people).