Why is it that New York City can manage it's Transportation?

Question

... its at least 5 or 6 times the size of Chicago, YET Chicago has to be bailed out by the state because "we don't have enough funds to take care of our transportation, Buses, CTA, "L"... when our Budget for this in Chicago is MORE than New York City gets?

I mean.. why is this?

Answer 1

Probably because NYC has a more efficient transportation system

Answer 2

Well, in NYC, the MTA is asking for yet another fare increase, so they basically have a way to print money whenever they need it.