Light rail is a rail-based transportation system using small electric-powered trains at street level. Typically found in urban areas providing public transportation services. Light rail is generally smaller and slower than a subway but is usually faster and can carry more passengers than a traditional streetcar. “Light rail” contrasts with “heavy rail” in that it concentrates on passenger service in urban and close suburban areas. It contrasts with streetcars in intent, which is to carry passengers across longer stretches between stops when possible, though closely metered stops may occur within city centers. If you miss a light rail train, you may have little choice but to wait for the next one; if you miss a street car, you can probably get to your destination on foot just as quickly as waiting for the next car to come along. Barriers may separate light rail lines from automotive and pedestrian traffic lanes, but not always. U.S. cities with light rail systems include Portland, OR, Pittsburgh, PA, Los Angeles, CA, and Denver, CO.
