I read an article last week in the Southwest Journal that discussed the proposed East/West Light Rail transit line that would incidently run through more uppity areas of SW Minneapolis.

Opponents are off the hook: "Still, concerns remain. At least one opponent of the Kenilworth route is prepared to take legal action if not enough is done to protect residents and city amenities along the future transit corridor." and further down: "He said a “coalition of interested neighbors” was prepared to file a court challenge if they believe plans for mitigation efforts fall short. They’ve already consulted with attorneys representing the University of Minnesota in a lawsuit over the Central Corridor light rail line down University Avenue."

My take on it? A bunch of rich babies who don't want people that might not be like them in their neighborhoods. Selfish, selfish people. Nevermind that this transit line can provide people with an opportunity to get to jobs in the outer Metro without having to sit on a bus for an hour then try to walk or bike an additional amount through the very pedestrian/cyclist unfriendly suburbs.

I get that people will be inconvienced during construction and that it will affect some neighborhoods and they will have to adapt to change. But it is for the greater good in many ways. And the larger point is that no one goes as far to threaten to sue when these types of projects are proposed in weaker, low-income neighborhoods. Some of these same types of people can drive through and buy their drugs and pick up prostitutes and shit on our neighborhoods then go home to their cushy homes but god forbid someone try to make transit easier for people who can't own cars, choose not to own cars and want to see a healthier city.

It's the NOT IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD syndrome through and through.