What I note is the politicians’ constant need for euphemisms, whether required or not. This “light rail” is nothing more or less than... uhm, streetcars! Heck, why not call it Affirmative Action Rails, it would make as much sense.
“Light rail” vs. “heavy rail” (often elevated). It comes down to whether the power source comes from above or below.
Nothing to do with the weight of the cars, the cost of the project, the amount of real estate consumed by the tracks and supports.
But to the public “light rail” sounds like a nice compromise. Much better than that “heavy rail”.
Oh way, light rail can’t run in Houston when there are 3 inches of rainfall. Oh well.