Some business owners in Mesa oppose light rail extending eastward because they are afraid of losing business. Others are supporting it.  Although they initially lost business during construction, they are benefitting from the return of customers and reduced crime.  I think Main Street businesses have an advantage of ample access and off street parking that can offset decreased traffic during construction of light rail.  Light rail is a success in many cities like Denver, Colorado, and I think it is something we need.  The city has been holding forums for public input; you can read more in this Tribune story http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/118481 This is a brochure from Valley Metro about a 24 mounth study on light rail through Mesa http://www.valleymetro.org/METRO_light_rail/Downloads/Publications/Brochures/Central-Mesa-Scoping-Brochure-July07.pdf