Los Angeles Seeks To Accelerate LRT Expansion
Posted on 20th January 2023 at 14:23
Adding 14 new stops, the future San Fernando line will be street-based. The project also includes the construction of a new maintenance and stabling facility. Metro
The Board of Los Angeles Metro has approved the submission of a funding application worth almost USD1.9bn to the State of California for three light rail projects. The application has been made under the state’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP), with the latest round made possible by last year’s budget surplus. Awards are expected to be announced at the end of January 2023.
The following projects have been identified as key priorities for acceleration:
USD798m for the 10.7km (6.7-mile) L (Gold) line Foothill Extension in the San Gabriel Valley between Pomona and Montclair. This would be a continuation of the under-construction eastern extension from Azusa to Pomona, due to open in 2025.
USD600m for the East San Fernando Valley Transit Corridor, a 14.4km (nine-mile) line heading north from the G (Orange) BRT Van Nuys stop to the Sylmar/San Fernando Metrolink station. This project is scheduled for completion in 2028-30.
USD500m for the West Santa Ana Branch Transit Corridor, a 30.9km (19.3-mile) line between Artesia and LA Union Station.
Metro said its staff and board selected these three projects as they best meet the criteria for the state programme: state of project readiness, improving transit inequities in vulnerable communities, and significant federal and/or local funds already committed.
Securing USD909m in federal funds for the East San Fernando Valley project, for example, is contingent on a significant state contribution.
“It’s important that Metro capitalise on this rare funding opportunity,” said LA County Supervisor and Metro Board Member Kathryn Barger. “I believe this package of projects will provide significant transportation benefits for our county residents. I look forward to continuing our strong funding partnership with the state.”
There have been five rounds of TIRCP funding to date, contributing USD6.6bn to nearly 100 projects designed to modernise and expand the state’s transit provision. These grants include around USD1.7bn for a range of light rail and mass transit projects in LA County, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco.
Tagged as: LA Metro, expansion, LA Light Rail
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