Recent developments in rail programs bode well for Southern California's rail future. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is working a plan to gain additional federal funding in order to shorten the time of new subway and streetcar line development of Measure R projects from 30 years to 10 years. Called the 30/10 plan, the plan would leverage federal investment as well as encourage private investment in rail. The Mayor testified in Washington DC on March 11th, at the request of Senator Barbara Boxer, to a senate committee on Environment and Public Works. According to Villaraigosa, "The Committee will focus on leveraging federal investment and encouraging non-federal investment in transportation - a very important and timely discussion for the U.S. and for Los Angeles. I will make a strong case for our 30/10 plan, based on creating jobs and providing significant environmental and health benefits."
"Such an innovative new partnership model could benefit other regions in the U.S. seeking to jump start their transportation programs."
In other news, LA's long dormant short line, Angels Flight, is back up and running. Community leaders praised the reopening as a bridge to further development of downtown.
Comments