Proponents of the Phoenix light rail system that is deep into construction claim that the project will reduct DUI cases by offering people an alternative mode of transportation to and from downtown for cultural and sporting events. I’m not so certain.

In Phoenix, I would estimate that at least half of the DUI cases that come through my office resulted from an officer pulling over a vehicle shortly after it left a non-downtown bar.

While the light rail project may result in a redistribution of Phoenix Police Officers from the light rail area to other areas, my prediction is that they increase enforcement around the bars with the extra manpower (if the budget cuts don’t get the manpower first).

The other argument against light rail as the cure to DUI is that alternative modes of transportation already exist and have for years. Cabs. Buses. Designated drivers. They are all available in the Phoenix area (although buses with some effort). DUI is often about a bad last minute choice. The 2 am judgment call. Will the availability of light raid alter the way people think? I doubt it.