Our city is going ahead with a large-scale light rail project. It actually seems well designed!
We're facing the same problems as I'd wager most large US cities are - massive, seemlingly uncontrolled suburban - or exurban to follow current word trends - sprawl. Tons of new cookie-cutter homes are being thrown up, framed by chainsaws, in farmland that used to be outside the city. All these new homes and only old, single-lane roads to support all that new traffic. Yes, many people who buy homes here also tend to drive minivans/SUVs. I swear it must be genetic.
Anyway, there's going to be major rail lines to support these sprawling new communities. From the 'burbs to downtown in 30 mins. Actually a good idea for once.
If I was facing a 45 min+ commute, with stressful traffic situations vs. a 30 min ride, relaxing and listening to my iPod, it's no contest. Throw in the price of parking downtown and gas and it's a no-brainer. Especially in winter - commutes are insane. A regular 30min commute easily becomes 1 hr, with snow and ice everywhere. This is where the rail has the huge advantage.
Now we'll see if people actually use it...