Why shouldn't drivers need subsidies? In high cost areas, the subsidies are the only reason that drivers are willing to work. If the pay dropped much they would be better off finding other jobs, or not working at all.
They pay doesn't need to drop. Ridership needs to increase. As long as drivers are driving and not staying idle they should be able to earn enough to sustain itself. But early on there is a lot of idle time and that's where subsidies are important.