If Seattle had built its first modern streetcar anywhere other than in Paul Allen's South Lake Union, streetcars might not have such a bad reputation.
I'm taken by the fact that both of the mayoral candidates, even transit-y Mike McGinn, are opposed to building a streetcar on First Aveneue. That streetcar line is often mentioned as part of any viaduct replacement option. But Joe Mallahan—who's against streetcars on principle—and McGinn don't include it in their viaduct plans.
Lots of cities are considering new streetcars. Sure, they cost a little more to build, but if you built them right, they can make for a snappy way to get around town.
There's one really good reason why Seattle built our first modern streetcar line in South Lake Union: It was largely paid for by a taxes on businesses in the neighborhood. It's not clear if that is something that can be done in other neighborhoods. The First Hill Streetcar is getting built, but that's because Sound Transit is paying for it (out of Seattle tax money).
Streetcars aren't getting much love during the campaign. Mallahan just doesn't like them, and McGinn is perhaps making a smart choice tactical choice by opposing the downtown line. Bad reputation or not, they're not worth abandoning.