Some commenters noted that one significant hurdle to the formation of public-private partnerships is the public's misperception that roads are "free."[371] A failure to understand the cost and inefficiency of the current system based on fuel and sales taxes leads some to conclude that roads financed with alternative means (even means that are significantly more efficient) "cost" more. It was suggested that the Federal government take a role in letting the public know that the roads they drive on are not free and that the roads being proposed under public-private partnerships are not likely to get built at all with current funding mechanisms.
In addition, the Federal government can play an important role in signaling acceptance of public-private partnerships to reassure local policy makers of the legitimacy of the process.[372] Suggestions included having U.S. DOT take the lead in setting an environment (working with the U.S. Conference of Mayors, National League of Cities, etc.) in which political leaders can feel more comfortable advocating the use of public-private partnerships.[373] Others suggested including a statement of policy in the surface transportation reauthorization bill declaring public-private partnerships and negotiated procurements are an advantageous method of funding and procuring transportation improvements.[374]