Because this country has opposed public transport for so long, it's now viewed as a last resort-- it's what's used by people who can't afford other means. That's the general sentiment. The harsh reality is that there was an infrastructure, those in charge tore it out, and are now trying to replace it, but the place is all super-developed and there's no room anymore. If my wife wanted to take the train to work, the station at this end is 7 miles from our house, and the other end is about 4 miles from her workplace. That's a lot of extra travel for a 15 mile train trip.

She did Bike-to-Work Day this year, and I rode with her. It was a nightmare. I've ridden those exact roads dozens upon dozens of times-- but never on a Friday morning at 6am. Minimal bike lanes, 3X the traffic, and everybody is in a BIG hurry. Plus, it was 26 miles, a bit too much for a daily commute.

My wife would love to not have to commute. But it's not a choice. It is what it is.