Dallas, Texas

Rail transit has proven its ability to attract riders. In St. Louis, people who have sworn that they would never use public transportation are now taking the new Metrolink light rail line to work each day. Actual Metrolink ridership is 30% higher than what was projected.

Rail transit is much faster than urban bus service, and a ride on rail transit is smoother and more pleasant than on a ride on a bus. Rail transit is more efficient and less costly to operate than buses. According to a Federal Transit Administration average figure of 5 cities, light rail transit costs 45% less to operate and maintain.

The two rail transit modes being considered for Rochester are light rail and commuter rail. Heavy rail systems such as subways and elevated lines are only suitable for large cities due to the high cost of construction.