http://www.ausbcomp..../cars/carhist.htm
Steam power was widely used in the 1880's and 1890's on the farms of America. Cowley County had its share of these behemoths and had a large group of people with the ability to use, and the skill to fix and repair them. The smaller, less expensive automobile, with an internal combustion engine provided a new avenue of interest that was much more personal than the steam engine with its team of attendants.
as you noticed the distinct lack of the mention of vehicles in your link the equal lack of the mention of horses in my link, your conclusion that cars were planned to eliminate horses in the city doesnt add up. That was a side effect, not a cause.
thanx,
bill