Public transportation can absolutely go into the suburbs. In fact, I think it should. Every time they have tried to extent a tram line or set up some light rails, people protested because “not in my backyard” and “everyone will just go to the city, this place will be deserted”. Every time they actually went through, the suburb became more sought after and local commerce actually increased.

also, let’s not forget that propaganda is most effective if you have a little bit of wealth and are afraid of losing it