I agree, $5/gallon isnt the end of the economy but at what price would you consider buying a more fuel efficient car or consider drastic changes to your lifestyle? $7, $8, $10 a gallon?
Most American cities (especially in the midwest) are far too spread out to really reap the benefits of public transportation. Of course it works for places like London, NY, Chicago and San Fran (parts anyway) because they've learned to build up not out. Urban sprawl has spoiled us. I would love to take the train or monorail to work everyday and not have to worry about the making a car payment every month and extra money to maintain a car but its not possible in Columbus unless you live on campus.