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The
Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has proposed an "indefinite hold" on
future rail construction, according to the Los Angeles Times. Executive Director Julian Burke proposed
suspension of construction on three lines --- the Pasadena light rail line and the Eastside and
Mid-Cities heavy rail (metro) lines. MTA would continue constuction of the "Red Line" subway to North
Hollywood.
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MTA faces a $727 shortfall in its six year $2.4 billion rail construction program, which has been hampered
by cost overruns and overly optimistic revenue projections (both in terms of federal funding and the MTA's
tax on retail sales).
In addition, MTA has faced concerted opposition to its rail program by a riders organization, the Bus Riders
Union, which claims
that bus service has
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deteriorated
while MTA has pursued its rail construction program. A court sanctioned
agreement
requires expanded and improved bus services.
MTA's public transport system has experienced substantial ridership losses, while passenger fares have risen
steadily. Annual MTA passenger kilometers dropped nearly 35 percent from 1985 to 1995, despite the opening of
three new rail lines.
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Los Angeles Imposes Rail Construction "Indefinite Hold"
