Don't start your essay by restating the question. Start with a hook, i mean write something general. However hook should not be more than 2 sentences. Then, restate your question and opinion. This should be your intro.
Both point of views are respectable and have acceptable motives. In my opinion,
i prefer spending money on public transportation for the next reasons.
Don't make another para for stating your opinion. Write it in your intro.
Use specific reason to support your body para. This will help you to increase your word count and to write more coherently and comfortably.