Metro Quarterly, Readers Enjoyed a Transit Account

spring 2004

Metro Fights For la County’s Fair Share Of Transit Funding Find Out How You Can Help Chief Executive Metro is navigating di;cult >nancial straits as the ?ow of transportation funding mq spring 2004 O;cer d.c from Sacramento and Washington, . becomes more scarce. Still, it’s not Published by Roger Snoble all doom and gloom by any means. In fact, it’s an opportunity for Metro to craft Metro Communications new and better ways of moving people and goods. At the same time, we’re Department exercising a leadership role in mobilizing Los Angeles County stakeholders to Editor: contents >ght for the region’s fair share of available transportation dollars. gary wosk

Los Angeles County could lose as much as $1 billion in state transportation Writers: funding in the next >ve years. Congress also is scrambling to >nd new monies for bill heard highway and mass transit projects against a backdrop of mounting federal warren morse budget de>cits. That’s the bad news. ed scannell 4 cean collier The good news is key Metro projects are moving forward. Metro’s Eastside light lisa huynh s 4 fast lanes rail project has emerged as one of the Federal Transit Administration’s top adrienne figueroa Exclusive lanes make Wilshire Boulevard Metro Rapid funding priorities, and the Metro Orange Line transitway in the San Fernando claudia keith Valley is under construction. trips even faster. Graphic Design: Metro is taking delivery of 300 high-capacity buses. Two more Metro Rapid lines metro design studio 6 getting there will debut on Soto and Vernon/La Cienega in June, and Metro is testing an Metro Orange Line transitway construction underway. exclusive bus lane on Wilshire Boulevard. Dozens of critical street and highway Account Executive: yvonne price improvement projects also are pushing ahead, funded in large part by local 7 relief transit sales tax dollars, which has been our mainstay during this >scal crisis. Photographers: john weiskopf Finding solutions for congested Long Beach Freeway. Investing in transit grows the economy and spurs more revenue for government greg mancuso at all levels. At the same time, getting more people to use public transit or try chris lovdahl Metro rideshare programs eases tra;c congestion and improves air quality. juan ocampo s 8 persuasion We lay it on the line in this issue of Metro Quaterly, our progress and our >scal laura woodward The push is on to convince state and federal legislators challenges, and we’ll tell you how you can help Metro sail safely through the kyung kim to keep vital transportation projects moving forward. roxanne tan tough times ahead. Circulation: karen kern 15 mobility role Sincerely, bob sanders Metro is responsible for a wide range of regionally dan colonello Roger Snoble signi>cant transportation projects. Metro Research: jim walker s 16 oasis (Dorothy Peyton Gray Metro Gold Line is becoming a destination for former Transportation Library) drivers and Chinatown a>cionados. Deputy Executive O;cer, 16 decision Public Relations: marc littman Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension in line for Chief Communications O;cer: federal funding. Board of Directors matt raymond Zev Yaroslavsky Board Chairman, Third Supervisorial District 18 more metro… Frank Roberts 1st Vice Chair, Mayor of Lancaster James Hahn 2nd Vice Chair, Mayor of Los Angeles > Bicyclists ride free May 20 > Gateway Cities new general manager Gloria Molina First Supervisorial District mq is the winner of >rst place Yvonne Brathwaite Burke Second Supervisorial District Adwheels Award presented by > Smart cards debut later this year Don Knabe Fourth Supervisorial District American Public Transportation > New vanpoolers irresistible proposal Association. Mike D. Antonovich Fifth Supervisorial District > Metro honors the great Chick Hearn All comments concerning mq > All out assault on graffiti declared Tom LaBonge City Council Member, Los Angeles or requests to be added to Martin Ludlow City Council Member, Los Angeles the mailing list, free-of-charge, Antonio Villaraigosa City Council Member, Los Angeles should be directed to: John Fasana Mayor of Duarte mq, Metro Media Relations Beatrice Proo Mayor of Pico Rivera Mail Stop 99-2-30h 15 One Gateway Plaza Pam O’Connor City Council Member, Santa Monica Los Angeles, ca 90012–2952 Ron Wong Non-voting member or by e-mail to [email protected] Metro is now testing exclusive bus Bus-Only Lanes Exploring Metro Rapid Automation Technologies lanes on Wilshire Boulevard. Demonstration Underway Imagine riding a Metro Rapid bus that safely drives itself Bus operators would operate the bus under manual along a special lane of tra;c. control while going to and from automated road sections. On Wilshire Boulevard All this will be possible with electronic guidance systems “This technology and others hold promise for speeding now being developed by the California Partners for service while not compromising safety,” says mta The curbside lane on each side of Wilshire Boulevard Advanced Transit and Highways (path), a research Director of Regional Planning Rex Gephart. “We’re always between Federal and Centinela avenues is now program from the University of California, Berkeley. Metro on the lookout for technologies like these that will designated as a bus-only lane. is working with path and others on e=orts to introduce help improve the transit experience for our customers.” • Metro Rapid, Metro Local and municipal carriers are these technologies for Bus Rapid Transit applications in using the bus-only lanes, which are in e=ect during peak la County in the coming years. Automated Bus periods from 7 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 7 pm. Rapid Transit has A magnetic guidance system installed on the bus and The exclusive lanes improve the ?ow of tra;c in adjacent been successfully embedded in the road precisely steers it. This allows the demonstrated in lanes because vehicles are not slowed by bus boardings. bus to keep a constant, safe distance from other buses San Diego. Transit Cars may enter the lanes in o=-peak periods or to make in the same lane. The system automatically controls the vehicles can operate right turns at intersections or enter into parking lots. rate of speed and lane changes and helps the bus nimbly close together in maneuver the road. an electronically- The six month test may become a permanent feature. • The technology will help bus operators safely sustain coupled “virtual train.” higher speeds on arterial streets while traveling on tight, “The exclusive bus lanes allow Metro narrow lanes where most bus operators must reduce Rapid buses to bypass tra;c and move speeds to remain safe. more people faster through the corridor.” timothy papandreou, Metro Transportation Planning Manager Metro Transit Operations Supervisor Charles H. McMillan alerts bus operator trainee Vicki Osborne- Morton to simulated road hazard up ahead.

High-Tech Equipment Helps Train Drivers

New simulators and computer programs are sharpening “Our obligation as an organization is to make sure we the safety and customer service skills of Metro Bus operators. produce the best qualified bus operators in the world, During the six-week course for new operators, trainees especially when it comes to customer safety,” says must log a minimum of 20 hours behind the wheel and 15 Director of Metro Operations Training Mark Anderson. • 4 hours of classroom instruction. 5 Metro is now testing exclusive bus Bus-Only Lanes Exploring Metro Rapid Automation Technologies lanes on Wilshire Boulevard. Demonstration Underway Imagine riding a Metro Rapid bus that safely drives itself Bus operators would operate the bus under manual along a special lane of tra;c. control while going to and from automated road sections. On Wilshire Boulevard All this will be possible with electronic guidance systems “This technology and others hold promise for speeding now being developed by the California Partners for service while not compromising safety,” says mta The curbside lane on each side of Wilshire Boulevard Advanced Transit and Highways (path), a research Director of Regional Planning Rex Gephart. “We’re always between Federal and Centinela avenues is now program from the University of California, Berkeley. Metro on the lookout for technologies like these that will designated as a bus-only lane. is working with path and others on e=orts to introduce help improve the transit experience for our customers.” • Metro Rapid, Metro Local and municipal carriers are these technologies for Bus Rapid Transit applications in using the bus-only lanes, which are in e=ect during peak la County in the coming years. Automated Bus periods from 7 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 7 pm. Rapid Transit has A magnetic guidance system installed on the bus and The exclusive lanes improve the ?ow of tra;c in adjacent been successfully embedded in the road precisely steers it. This allows the demonstrated in lanes because vehicles are not slowed by bus boardings. bus to keep a constant, safe distance from other buses San Diego. Transit Cars may enter the lanes in o=-peak periods or to make in the same lane. The system automatically controls the vehicles can operate right turns at intersections or enter into parking lots. rate of speed and lane changes and helps the bus nimbly close together in maneuver the road. an electronically- The six month test may become a permanent feature. • The technology will help bus operators safely sustain coupled “virtual train.” higher speeds on arterial streets while traveling on tight, “The exclusive bus lanes allow Metro narrow lanes where most bus operators must reduce Rapid buses to bypass tra;c and move speeds to remain safe. more people faster through the corridor.” timothy papandreou, Metro Transportation Planning Manager Metro Transit Operations Supervisor Charles H. McMillan alerts bus operator trainee Vicki Osborne- Morton to simulated road hazard up ahead.

High-Tech Equipment Helps Train Drivers

New simulators and computer programs are sharpening “Our obligation as an organization is to make sure we the safety and customer service skills of Metro Bus operators. produce the best qualified bus operators in the world, During the six-week course for new operators, trainees especially when it comes to customer safety,” says must log a minimum of 20 hours behind the wheel and 15 Director of Metro Operations Training Mark Anderson. • 4 hours of classroom instruction. 5 Construction of the ; Metro, the Gateway Metro Orange Line Metro Orange Line Transitway Construction Metro Faces I-710 Tra c Cities Council of transitway is Governments, proceeding including Keeps Pace With Summer ’05 Opening Problems Head On Caltrans and the grading and Southern California paving of Chandler The 101 Freeway in the San Fernando Valley is notorious New alternatives for reducing tra;c on the I-710 Long Association of Boulevard between for tra;c bottlenecks, but relief is on the way. Starting Beach Freeway will be unveiled this spring by a Governments are Tujunga and August 2005 commuters will be able to bypass the 101 consortium of community, business leaders and elected reviewing ways of Whitsett avenues in when the Metro Orange Line transitway debuts next year. o;cials. Goals of the 710 Freeway Corridor Study are to reducing tra;c on North Hollywood. increase safety, reduce diesel emissions for health the Long Beach The 14-mile transitway follows the course of a former Freeway. railroad right-of-way between the North Hollywood Metro reasons, and sustain regional, state and national economic Rail station and Warner Center. The tracks have been growth. The recommendations will be forwarded to removed and grading is underway to pave the route, which various governments for action. The study covers an area will be used exclusively by high-capacity buses starting from Long Beach to East Los Angeles. in August 2005. The I-710 is heavily traveled by trucks that pick up freight Three new bridges are being built. The new transitway will from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and feature stations that include electronic “next bus” signs, transport goods throughout the Los Angeles region and a public address system, ticket vending machines and across the nation. An estimated 40,000 trucks ply the closed circuit television monitoring for security. More than freeway each day and that number is expected to 3,000 parking spaces will be provided along the route and increase to more than 93,000 by 2020. The mix of so ; there will be a parallel bike and pedestrian path. Storm drains, many trucks and heavy auto tra c has resulted in irrigation pipes and >ber optic lines are being installed. numerous major accidents that have resulted in many fatalities and tra;c tie-ups. Colorful native California plants will accent the transitway. Drought-tolerant shrubs and up to 5,000 new shade trees Diesel truck emissions have increased the cancer risk for will dot the “California Heritage” landscape. • residents living in the freeway corridor where the carcinogenic risk exceeds 1,500 cases per million people. About 70 percent of the cancer risk is due to particulate emissions from trucks. Shippers and commuters alike have an economic stake in >xing the I-710. The price of consumer goods could rise as truck tra;c slows due to the increasing volume of tra;c from the ports along with population growth. Likewise, commuters are wasting more time idling in traffic and that costs them money in terms of lost productivity and wasted gas. •

“40,000 trucks ply the freeway each day and that number is expected to increase to more than 93,000 by 2020.”

6 7 Construction of the ; Metro, the Gateway Metro Orange Line Metro Orange Line Transitway Construction Metro Faces I-710 Tra c Cities Council of transitway is Governments, proceeding including Keeps Pace With Summer ’05 Opening Problems Head On Caltrans and the grading and Southern California paving of Chandler The 101 Freeway in the San Fernando Valley is notorious New alternatives for reducing tra;c on the I-710 Long Association of Boulevard between for tra;c bottlenecks, but relief is on the way. Starting Beach Freeway will be unveiled this spring by a Governments are Tujunga and August 2005 commuters will be able to bypass the 101 consortium of community, business leaders and elected reviewing ways of Whitsett avenues in when the Metro Orange Line transitway debuts next year. o;cials. Goals of the 710 Freeway Corridor Study are to reducing tra;c on North Hollywood. increase safety, reduce diesel emissions for health the Long Beach The 14-mile transitway follows the course of a former Freeway. railroad right-of-way between the North Hollywood Metro reasons, and sustain regional, state and national economic Rail station and Warner Center. The tracks have been growth. The recommendations will be forwarded to removed and grading is underway to pave the route, which various governments for action. The study covers an area will be used exclusively by high-capacity buses starting from Long Beach to East Los Angeles. in August 2005. The I-710 is heavily traveled by trucks that pick up freight Three new bridges are being built. The new transitway will from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and feature stations that include electronic “next bus” signs, transport goods throughout the Los Angeles region and a public address system, ticket vending machines and across the nation. An estimated 40,000 trucks ply the closed circuit television monitoring for security. More than freeway each day and that number is expected to 3,000 parking spaces will be provided along the route and increase to more than 93,000 by 2020. The mix of so ; there will be a parallel bike and pedestrian path. Storm drains, many trucks and heavy auto tra c has resulted in irrigation pipes and >ber optic lines are being installed. numerous major accidents that have resulted in many fatalities and tra;c tie-ups. Colorful native California plants will accent the transitway. Drought-tolerant shrubs and up to 5,000 new shade trees Diesel truck emissions have increased the cancer risk for will dot the “California Heritage” landscape. • residents living in the freeway corridor where the carcinogenic risk exceeds 1,500 cases per million people. About 70 percent of the cancer risk is due to particulate emissions from trucks. Shippers and commuters alike have an economic stake in >xing the I-710. The price of consumer goods could rise as truck tra;c slows due to the increasing volume of tra;c from the ports along with population growth. Likewise, commuters are wasting more time idling in traffic and that costs them money in terms of lost productivity and wasted gas. •

“40,000 trucks ply the freeway each day and that number is expected to increase to more than 93,000 by 2020.”

6 7 The state budget de>cit will result in an estimated loss to la County of $330 million in >scal year 2005 and as much as $1 billion over the next >ve years. The state and federal budget deficits and recent Consent Decree-mandated bus purchases will compromise Metro’s ability over the next several years to deliver many much-needed transportation projects; projects that would have provided substantial congestion relief and measurable bene>ts to the region’s air quality. Among the repercussions, hundreds of transportation projects for which la County and its 88 municipalities have applied for funding under Metro’s bi-annual Call for Projects will face delays. Projects under this program can range from the widening of streets to the construction of freeway carpool lanes and other public transportation e=orts. Moreover, this year Metro has found itself in the unenviable position of having to suspend the Call for Projects for the first time in its history. limited Metro’s federal funding picture also is problematic, given the growing federal budget deficit. In addition, the region could lose substantial federal funding if it is unable to attain mandated air quality goals. transportation rallying la county Metro continues to seek ways to proceed with as many regionally signi>cant transportation projects as possible. For example, last year the California Transportation Commission approved Metro’s funding plan to continue funding puts construction of the Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension and the purchase of rail cars for the line, Metro Orange Line Construction (a 14-mile transitway which will link the West San Fernando Valley to the Metro Rail North Hollywood Station), and the purchase of 200 60-foot articulated vehicles big squeeze for operation on the region’s busiest corridors. At the same time, Metro is mobilizing the public to help >ght for the county’s fair share of state and federal transportation funding. (See sidebar stories, page 14.) on la county “Metro has long recognized the strong case Los Angeles County can make “Metro has long for funding when the region speaks to lawmakers in Sacramento and Washington, d.c. with one voice,” says ceo Roger Snoble. recognized the strong la County taxpayers are being shortchanged more than $200 million a year in state “The Mobility 21 coalition spearheaded by Metro, the Los Angeles Area case Los Angeles and federal transportation funding and that has hurt e=orts to ease tra;c congestion Chamber of Commerce and the Automobile Club of Southern California is in la County. County can make for serving as just such a vehicle as we seek solutions to the region’s tra;c Metro has a solid plan for easing mobility today and in the future to keep up with the congestion.” funding when the growing population. It is forging ahead with innovative projects that are bene>cial Snoble noted that congestion is not just a hardship for county residents who region speaks to law- to the region as a whole. The plan calls for heavy investment in new transportation spend more than 90 hours each year idling in tra;c at an annual cost of infrastructure from street and freeway improvements to new bus and rail systems. makers in Sacramento $1,005 per person. The nation’s economy depends on the free movement of la d.c However, state and federal funding is not keeping pace. County businesses and freight from our ports. • and Washington, . residents pay $1.436 billion annually in state and federal gas taxes but the county receives back less than $1.2 billion. Compounding the funding gap are the budget with one voice.” de>cits that the state Legislature and Congress are grappling with. roger snoble, ceo

8 9 The state budget de>cit will result in an estimated loss to la County of $330 million in >scal year 2005 and as much as $1 billion over the next >ve years. The state and federal budget deficits and recent Consent Decree-mandated bus purchases will compromise Metro’s ability over the next several years to deliver many much-needed transportation projects; projects that would have provided substantial congestion relief and measurable bene>ts to the region’s air quality. Among the repercussions, hundreds of transportation projects for which la County and its 88 municipalities have applied for funding under Metro’s bi-annual Call for Projects will face delays. Projects under this program can range from the widening of streets to the construction of freeway carpool lanes and other public transportation e=orts. Moreover, this year Metro has found itself in the unenviable position of having to suspend the Call for Projects for the first time in its history. limited Metro’s federal funding picture also is problematic, given the growing federal budget deficit. In addition, the region could lose substantial federal funding if it is unable to attain mandated air quality goals. transportation rallying la county Metro continues to seek ways to proceed with as many regionally signi>cant transportation projects as possible. For example, last year the California Transportation Commission approved Metro’s funding plan to continue funding puts construction of the Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension and the purchase of rail cars for the line, Metro Orange Line Construction (a 14-mile transitway which will link the West San Fernando Valley to the Metro Rail North Hollywood Station), and the purchase of 200 60-foot articulated vehicles big squeeze for operation on the region’s busiest corridors. At the same time, Metro is mobilizing the public to help >ght for the county’s fair share of state and federal transportation funding. (See sidebar stories, page 14.) on la county “Metro has long recognized the strong case Los Angeles County can make “Metro has long for funding when the region speaks to lawmakers in Sacramento and Washington, d.c. with one voice,” says ceo Roger Snoble. recognized the strong la County taxpayers are being shortchanged more than $200 million a year in state “The Mobility 21 coalition spearheaded by Metro, the Los Angeles Area case Los Angeles and federal transportation funding and that has hurt e=orts to ease tra;c congestion Chamber of Commerce and the Automobile Club of Southern California is in la County. County can make for serving as just such a vehicle as we seek solutions to the region’s tra;c Metro has a solid plan for easing mobility today and in the future to keep up with the congestion.” funding when the growing population. It is forging ahead with innovative projects that are bene>cial Snoble noted that congestion is not just a hardship for county residents who region speaks to law- to the region as a whole. The plan calls for heavy investment in new transportation spend more than 90 hours each year idling in tra;c at an annual cost of infrastructure from street and freeway improvements to new bus and rail systems. makers in Sacramento $1,005 per person. The nation’s economy depends on the free movement of la d.c However, state and federal funding is not keeping pace. County businesses and freight from our ports. • and Washington, . residents pay $1.436 billion annually in state and federal gas taxes but the county receives back less than $1.2 billion. Compounding the funding gap are the budget with one voice.” de>cits that the state Legislature and Congress are grappling with. roger snoble, ceo

8 9 Metro: Doing More With Less

Already known as one of the most This is Metro’s latest e=ort to create safer environment for drivers and materials that will result in better The line’s Eastside Extension is positioning for the e;cient transportation providers in a countywide network of public passengers alike. fuel economy. By the end of this year, expected to open in 2009, increasing future the country, Metro continues to transit services – a partnership of Metro will provide its customers the reach of Metro Rail to nearly Motorola is overseeing the installation Metro continues to reinvent itself. become even more industrious and Metro and local municipal operators with nearly 300,000 extra hours of 80 miles. of an integrated wireless Even in these uncertain >nancial has introduced a host of new that can all be accessed by bus service. communications system called the Moreover, Metro’s use of design-build times, Metro is not content to take a programs that will bene>t customers customers with one form of fare. Advanced Transportation Metro’s newer bus ?eet also will construction on the six-mile business-as-usual approach to throughout the region despite the In January, Metro introduced the Management System aboard each mean more reliable services because Eastside Extension is expected to service. Instead, Metro continues to present budget squeeze. Day Pass. For only $3, customers Metro Bus. disruptions in service are fewer. save the agency between $10 million localizing management up the ante and remains committed can travel an unlimited number of The computer programs hastus and adding rapid service and $15 million. to meeting and exceeding the needs times, all day and night, on local minibus of its customers. In 2002, Metro decentralized bus are helping Metro make Passengers who ride Metro Rapid Another barometer of a more • operations into >ve smaller and Metro Bus lines, Metro Rapid and important bus planning decisions. e;cient operation is that the per-mile Metro Rail. reach destinations up to 25% faster more manageable business units, or Determining where buses must than on local service buses thanks cost of Metro Rail passenger service sectors, to bring the decision- Metro also has expanded the reach go, which operating division buses to a bus signal priority system. It subsidies continues to drop as the ? making process closer to the people and exibility of those customers originate from and tracking keeps green signals green up to 10 system grows. The per mile Metro serves. who use the buses of more than one changes in ridership patterns is made seconds longer or turns red signals passenger subsidy for heavy rail is “Metro continues to introduce ; more efficient routing transit agency. Created in 2002, more e cient. green up to 10 seconds sooner to 30 cents and 41 cents for light rail. a host of new programs that the Regional ez Transit Pass enables expanding fleet The per mile passenger subsidy for By as early as 2005, Metro will get buses through more > holders to board Metro Rail trains, intersections without stopping. the Metro Bus system is 36 cents. will bene t customers through- implement a new bus route system Metro Buses and the buses of over a To meet the needs of a rapidly maximizing tax dollars out the region.” called “Metro Connections.” dozen municipal operators for one growing population that wants to Metro Rapid has grown every six = Passengers will be delivered to low monthly price. avoid crowded roadways and months since it debuted in June Since 2001, the Metro Treasury sta destinations more quickly, by riding depends increasingly on public 2000. By 2008, the now seven-line has re>nanced nearly $1.4 billion in on buses that are part of an To make it easier for customers to transit, Metro continues to re>ne Metro Rapid system is projected to outstanding bonds, issued to >nance interconnected network of 15 to 18 tell the difference between local, and expand the Metro Bus System. expand into a 28-line network Metro Rail and Metrolink’s purchases express and Metro Rapid service, regional connectors or hubs. More than 420 peak-hour Metro comprising nearly 415 route miles of rights-of-way, to take advantage of better way to pay Metro is repainting its buses in and 779 stations. record low interest rates. distinct color schemes. Buses have been added since la Metro is about to enter a new era of leveraging technology 1996. This has reduced the number In 2005, the Metro Orange Line Over the life of the bonds, County convenient and seamless transit of standees. During that time, transitway will stretch from the taxpayers will now save more than fares. Starting in early 2005, a plastic, Metro is probing the latest Metro also has purchased more than North Hollywood Metro Red Line $208 million in interest costs with > wallet-sized tap (Transit Access technological advances to maximize 2,100 new clean-air, compressed Station to Warner Center in the savings of $11.9 million in this scal cng Pass) card will be introduced. Before existing resources. natural gas ( ) buses. Many West San Fernando Valley. year alone. boarding the Metro System, The Metro Bus ?eet is being trans- have low-floors for easier access. expanding metro rail Also in this time period, Metro has ? passengers will simply ash the card formed into a motor pool of highly More new buses are on the way. Metro Rail’s four interconnected rail completed several innovative leasing ? in front of fare-reading equipment, intelligent, quick-thinking coaches Joining the Metro Bus eet soon will lines now span 73.1 miles and the transactions of Metro-owned real which will deduct the cost of the capable of generating a steady be 45-foot CompoBuses with six system is poised for additional growth. estate, rail cars and buses. These trip from the card.Use of the tap card stream of real-time information to more seats than standard buses and “defeased” leases have yielded $69.8 will speed up boardings and allow emergency personnel and planners. 60-foot vehicles that sport 20 more The 13.7-mile Metro Gold Line that million in new revenues. The proceeds bus operators to focus more on This information contributes to a seats than standard buses. The buses connects downtown Los Angeles from the leases are used in Metro’s 10 driving safely. are constructed of durable lightweight and East Pasadena opened last July. transit operating and capital programs. 11 Metro: Doing More With Less

The proposed state budget takes greatest amount of people and Meanwhile, those who advocate for >For every $1 that California spends The budget deficit confronting the State of California more than $2.1 billion from trans- goods while using existing resources transportation in Sacramento aren’t on transportation, it receives a as well as the problems with the federal budget rate portation – a cost that will not only with the greatest e;ciency possible. giving up the >ght. The Auto Club is $5.70 return in the form of job and created lots of headlines. However, all the implications la of these problems and their longer-term impacts on stall projects that are ready to be By creating greater e;ciency within now working with Metro, the business creation, increased both residents and business are not being explored. built, but would impact the rebound our transportation systems, we Area Chamber of Commerce and business productivity resulting from of California’s fragile economy. will help save money on projects once others to show state legislators how reduced travel time, and reduced Consider the fact that Southern California already has a The state budget has already had an funding becomes available again. the continuing transportation cuts healthcare costs because of transportation “de>cit” – our transportation infra- impact on Metro, as we’ve seen with And by directing limited funds to will harm not only transportation improved road safety and air quality. structure has not kept up with past growth in moving the just-announced cancellation of the most effective projects, our projects and agencies but also the >For every $1 billion spent on goods and people, and we are going to fall further behind. economy as a whole. the Call for Projects, a previously transportation investments will do transportation construction, the In addition, the region’s population continues to > fully funded transportation capital more to return the state to scal Transportation projects are revenue equivalent of 42,100 full-time jobs grow at the rate of over 300,000 people per year while improvements program that has a health and to improve the lives of all producers that create companies, will be created. Those additional the economy is back on a growth track. deferred list of over 80 projects Californians. We must allocate jobs and salaries and produce taxes jobs will create additional sales amounting to $600 million. The resources to both highway and transit that will be pumped back into the tax, income tax and other revenue Two of the industries with the best prospects are $2.1 billion in proposed statewide projects offering the most mobility state’s battered economy. These jobs for California, bringing us closer international trade and tourism. This means more cars cuts is on top of more than $2.5 and safety bene>ts. Both roads and are not only for those directly to restoring >scal health. Every and trucks on our roadways and more demand for rail billion already taken from trans- public transit are critical to the lives employed by transportation new transportation construction transportation. portation over the past 18 months. and well-being of Los Angeles area construction but also for companies job creates an additional 1.48 full- But the state and federal budget problems mean little > While the Automobile Club of residents and workers. that become more pro table as a time jobs purchasing other goods or no money for critical transportation projects. Southern California and other economy on the line result of the improved infrastructure. and services in Southern While the state’s money problems may disappear in a transportation interests are The constant reduction of transport- California. couple of years, the cuts in transportation funding The Mobility 21 effort launched by vigorously opposing these cuts, ation funding actually costs taxpayers These benefits to the state economy will be impacting us for a long, long time. It will mean Metro and the Los Angeles Area there’s no doubt that at least some more money. State Legislative will be seen immediately if more time spent on the freeways, more missed Chamber of Commerce, in partner- transportation funding will be Analyst Elizabeth Hill said in her California decides to push forward deadlines for goods movement (with a resulting cost to ship with the Auto Club and diverted this year because of the analysis of the proposed state budget: transportation construction projects business), and more air pollution caused by vehicles other groups, is taking on renewed ; state’s economic crisis. So the “Such uncertainty (in transportation that are ready to begin instead of stuck in tra c jams. importance during this crisis. Its question becomes: Now what? funding) makes long-term planning forcing them to be delayed and, as a According to the Texas Transportation Institute, tra;c approach toward building consensus difficult, and money will be wasted result, making them even more congestion already costs the la area $9 billion per year, This setback can also be viewed as can be valuable in increasing in stopping and restarting projects.” expensive to complete. and the total will grow. an opportunity for transportation public awareness of transportation planners and builders to renew issues and possible solutions. It We hope lawmakers consider these The short-term gains that seem to The prospects are not pleasant. However, in the their focus on what is truly vital to will play a vital role in securing facts in creating a final budget: come from transportation budget competition for funds between social programs and Southern California’s well-being: Southern California’s fair share of cuts will have a long-term damaging hard things like transportation, the former always the ability to e=ectively move the resources from the reauthorization e=ect not only on the quality of wins. We need to think more creatively about funding of the federal transportation act. Californians’ lives but also on their our transportation needs. • economic health. •

12 13 State Budget Crisis: An Opportunity Long-Term Budget Impacts for Transportation Planners jack kyser, Chief Economist Los Angeles County dan beal, Manager of Public Policy and Programs Economic Development Corporation Automobile Club of Southern California

12 13 Metro Is Much More Than Transit Operator

Metro projects help shape the landscape and the economy of Southern California. Mobility 21: Fighting For Metro operates bus and rail service and provides funding metro to the rescue for carpool lane construction and other street and high- The Metro Freeway Service Patrol helps stranded Transportation Funding way improvements, bike path enhancements and freight motorists by quickly removing stalled cars out of tra;c. delivery upgrades. Metro projects represent some of the Tow truck drivers provide motorists with a wide range largest construction efforts ever undertaken in the area. of quick fixes such as towing, changing tires and refilling faster by the mile radiators – all free of charge. The fsp assists 30,000 Carpooling offers real benefits. In addition to saving motorists each month. money on gas and reducing pollution, carpoolers enjoy the nation’s largest clean air fleet information, advocacy tools improved travel times, saving an average of one minute The Metro Bus fleet serves a 1,433-square-mile area. Members of the Mobility 21 Coalition plan to visit state per mile. That’s why Metro, working together with and federal lawmakers over the next several months to More than 1,800 new compressed natural gas buses For the latest updates on what is being done to secure Caltrans, has planned, funded and built 435 miles of have been acquired over the past >ve years, the largest reinforce their unified message of restoring transportation la la more funding to ease traffic in County and how you carpool lanes on freeways. Designed for vehicles clean air ?eet in the nation. • funding for the region. can become involved, log on at www.mobility21.com. carrying two or more people including vanpools and The Mobility 21 Coalition was formed in 2002 and is The website is updated by Metro, the la Area Chamber buses, carpool lanes reduce congestion by moving ; ; comprised of elected o ceholders, transportation of Commerce and the Automobile Club of Southern people more e ciently. ; > providers, business, labor o cials, non-pro t groups California in support of the Mobility 21 transportation the golden age returns and private citizens who lobby the State of California advocacy coalition. and federal government for funding. Los Angeles and Pasadena reestablished their rail Included on the website is information on the Mobility connection in the summer of 2003 as the Metro Gold The Coalition recently approved a state budget resolution 21 Coalition’s annual transportation summit, activities Line opened. Serving Chinatown, Lincoln Heights, calling for the restoration of transportation funds, and events, legislative priorities and positions, member Mount Washington, Highland Park and South Pasadena, including Proposition 42 gasoline sales tax revenues, rosters, as well as press releases on the Coalition’s riders can reach their destinations much faster, which voters approved in 2002 as monies to be used for lobbying activities and Metro’s annual State of the including jobs, shops and entertainment, instead of transportation. Tra;c report. idling away on congested freeways. Combined, the state’s mid-year budget reductions and Plans are underway to augment the site with additional the 2004-05 proposed budget include about $2.1 billion interactive features including outreach tools which can in transportation funding cuts. To date, $2.5 billion in be used for advocacy e=orts and grassroots organizing, transportation funds have already been lent to the state links to other transportation and mobility-related General Fund. organizations and an electronic press kit complete with At the state level, the Coalition plans to oppose any a comprehensive overview of Mobility 21. additional transfers of transportation revenues to non- For the latest federal transportation updates, go to the transportation purposes. These include funds in the American Public Transportation Association website at project posters state highway account, Proposition 42 revenues, www.apta.com. federal transportation funds and funds in the public • In the last edition of Metro Quarterly, readers enjoyed a transit account. preview of a new original poster series designed to capture the essence of Metro’s larger projects and raise awareness of its In addition, the Coalition is supporting the wide range of services. implementation in la County of an additional half-cent local sales tax for transportation purposes. These illustrations are currently on display in Metro Rail trains and stations. The full series is available for purchase in From May 15-19, Coalition members will travel to the form of posters and postcards from the Metro Store. For Washington, D.C. to meet with federal lawmakers to information, call 213.922.4740. advocate in support of the reauthorization of la County’s transportation agencies’ appropriations requests in the 2005 federal budget. The group also will stress to lawmakers the importance of Metro’s Full Funding Grant Agreement request for the Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension.

14 15 Metro Is Much More Than Transit Operator

14 15 In one of Discretionary Riders Choose Metro Gold Line Discover Chinatown on Metro Gold Line Chinatown’s main courtyards near Hop Instead of Driving Passengers are increasingly taking the train to enjoy the “It was overwhelming,” says Yu. “I walked through Louie restaurant, sights and sounds of the 300-acre Chinatown with its Chinatown during the evening hours and the amount of friends chat outside Metro Rail is disproving a belief held by many that the “As tra;c in Southern California increases maze of shopping, dining, cultural sites and art galleries. people tra;c was tremendous. Merchants were happy popular jazz club. majority of transit users do not own cars. each year, it’s no surprise that some According to George Yu, executive director of the China- and understand the value of the Metro Gold Line. It was Metro studies have shown that in recent years a large Los Angeles-area residents seek alternative town Business Improvement District (bid), Chinatown really noticeable.” number of discretionary riders – car owners who use the restaurants, on average, are doing more business since Ken Poon, general manager of the bustling Empress transit system as an alternative to driving – have been modes of transportation.” the Metro Gold Line opened last July. There are 345 Pavilion restaurant, can easily keep track of Metro Gold riding Metro Rail. roger snoble, ceo merchants, shops and restaurants in Chinatown. Line passengers when they come into his restaurant for Backpackers prepare > to board Metro Gold Last year, a survey showed that nearly 50% of the The station is the >rst stop after leaving Union Station the rst time. Line train bound respondents had automobiles available to them. The in downtown Los Angeles for the 36-minute trip to “When I strike up a conversation with them they show me for Union Station 1,000 survey respondents chose to use the train instead. “It blows my mind that I make two transfers and get on a East Pasadena. their train tickets and tell me they’re from Pasadena,” in downtown The Metro Gold Line, Metro’s newest rail installment, bus and it takes the same amount of time if I used my large new year’s turnout he says. “Many new people are coming in, especially for Los Angeles. may be following this trend. The Metro Gold Line car,” he says. “It tells you how slow driving is.” dinner. The whole area is better off than before.” • Yu and his associates estimated that 5,000 passengers stretches 13.7 miles from Los Angeles to East Pasadena, Capone-Newton uses his weekdays on the Metro Gold arrived in Chinatown each day during the height of the making stops at 13 stations. Line to relax and catch up on the day’s events by reading “Year of the Monkey” revelry. To request a copy of the Angels Walk Chinatown self- “As tra;c in Southern California increases each year, it’s no the newspaper. On weekends he uses the system to get He credits the 13.7-mile light rail line with making the guided tour booklet, call 213.922.7023. surprise that some Los Angeles-area residents seek alter- to such local hot spots as Chinatown and Colorado most recent Chinese New Year celebration the largest For a copy of the “Gold Line Guide to Chinatown native modes of transportation,” says ceo Roger Snoble. Boulevard in Pasadena. in memory. Restaurants,” written by former la City Councilmember “I like to think of the line as something you can use for looking for a lifestyle Michael Woo, contact the Chinatown bid at 213.680.0243. anything you want to do,” he says. “You can stay out late About 60,000 people attended the famous Chinese New Peter Capone-Newton, vice chairman for the Metro and still take a train home.” Year’s Parade,10,000 more than before the Metro Gold Line. • Westside/Central Governance Council, bought a house in Mt. Washington a year ago because of its close Transit advocate Robert Velazques-Woo shares the same proximity to the Southwest Museum Station. sentiments. The Arcadia resident has replaced the stress of driving the Santa Monica Freeway each morning with a “I basically centered my search around the Metro Gold relaxing train ride to work in downtown Los Angeles. “It’s Line,” he says. “I wanted to have a lifestyle in which I not as stressful as driving in tra;c,” he says. didn’t have to be tied to a car.” The American Express vacation-planning representative Residing in a home just steps away from the station, was introduced to the services of public transportation at Capone-Newton catches a train to Los Angeles, transfers a young age when he lived overseas. to the Metro Red Line at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles and hops on a Metro Rapid that whisks him to “I think it’s much nicer to take the train and walk around,” his Beverly Hills ofﬁce. he says. •

Eastside Rail Extension Grant Awaiting Federal Action

The Bush Listing the project among its top from local funding already secured Administration is funding priorities, the u.s. Department by Metro. expected to decide soon whether to of Transportation recommended in The six-mile, eight-station light rail commit to Eastside February that Congress provide $80 line will serve the eastern corridor Extension funding million for construction of the from Union Station eastward to agreement. Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension Atlantic Boulevard and include a twin in Fiscal Year 2005. 1.8-mile tunnel under Boyle Heights. The $898 million Eastside Extension “We are pleased that U.S. Department project, expected to open in 2009, of Transportation Secretary mta is the Board’s highest priority Norman Mineta recognized the rail construction project. Half the importance of this project,” says 16 funding for the project will come ceo Roger Snoble. • 17 s Marge Hearn is Bike to Work Day joined by the tv broadcast team of Set for May 20 (l-r) Paul Metro is promoting the Los Angeles Sunderland and region’s 10th annual Bike to Work Stu Lantz at = Metro Rail station Day Thursday, May 20, by o ering plaque that prizes to those who register online honors her husband. before that day and pledge to ride their bike to work or school. A new commuter bike, bike accessories and New General Manager Alex Cli=ord, 44, joined Metro three years ago. tap other prizes will be awarded to Card Promises Faster Way To Travel bicyclists who register at Gateway Cities Has New General Manager tap Metro System users will feel like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers as they metro.net/biketowork. Alex Clifford is the new general manager of the Gateway Cities Service Sector. their way from one bus and rail system to another with their tap cards in hand. With gas prices surging, Metro is Clifford has worked 3 years in the operations division. The scheduled introduction of the Transit Access Pass in early 2005 is Metro’s encouraging commuters to try e=ort to create a super network of la County public transit services that can bicycling. As a further incentive, He served eight years as a member of the Riverside County Transportation all be accessed by customers with one form of fare. Metro will offer free rides on its Commission, twice as chairman. He represented the commission as a buses and trains to bicyclists all day member of the Southern California Regional Rail Authority and served as its Embedded with computer chips, the plastic, wallet-sized taps will be Metro and la Lakers May 20 if they board with their chairman for two years. programmed by Metro Customer Centers to hold the equivalent of current bicycle and/or bicycle safety helmet. Honor Play-By-Play weekly, bi-weekly or monthly Metro passes and cash amounts. For eight years, he also served as a board member of the Riverside Transit For more information on Bike to Agency. In addition, he was a member of the Intercity Rail Joint Powers Before boarding a bus or train, passengers will wave the card in front of Man Chick Hearn Work Day and Metro supported bike Authority and the California/Nevada Super Speed Train Commission, electronic fare-reading equipment to validate the pre-paid fare. There is no programs, go to metro.net or call among others. • The Pico Metro Blue Line Station is need to remove a card from a purse or jacket to pay a fare, which will speed (213) 922-2811. dedicated to the memory of the up boardings. • late legendary Lakers basketball tap In addition to Metro, participants will include municipal carriers, mta Planning Manager John Stesney, announcer Chick Hearn. paratransit and Metrolink. a self-described “bike nut” since he was A plaque honoring Hearn has been “The cards represent one of the most ambitious and important customer a teenager, rides his bike from his home in installed at the station, chosen service projects ever undertaken by Metro and will gradually be phased in,” Encino to Metro headquarters in down- for its close proximity to the Lakers’ town Los Angeles. The 22-mile trip takes says ceo Roger Snoble. “All other forms of fare media will be accepted home at Staples Center. one hour and 15 minutes. through the transition to tap.” “For more than four decades, Chick Metro employees will test the cards this summer on the Metro Gold Line and Hearn brought millions of people 200 Metro Buses that operate in the San Gabriel Valley. • together throughout Southern California through their love of the Even before the new cleanliness policy was approved, all Metro vehicles frequently received a Lakers,” says Lakers General Monetary Incentive Helps Metro thorough wash. Manager Mitch Kupchak. “He had Recruit Vanpoolers such a huge impact on this city that New Cleanliness Policy Will Keep Metro Spotless it is a very fitting tribute for Metro to New Metro vanpool riders are reimbursed $100 if they remain in the program The lyrics of a 1950s song –“Take out the papers and the trash” – honor him in this way. As the many for at least 30 days. resonates with Metro. passengers who travel through this station see his plaque on a daily Of the 4,000 commuters who have tried vanpools, 98% continued after the The mta Board has approved an aggressive new Metro Cleanliness Policy that basis, it will keep his memory alive 30 days elapsed. sets high standards for making sure Metro Buses, Metro Rail trains, bus stops, in a very positive way.” The benefits of ridesharing include less congested streets and highways, stations and all other Metro facilities are free of gra;ti and vandalism. Hearn broadcast 3,339 consecutive improved air quality, lower gasoline expenses and rested commuters. “Metro is committed to creating and maintaining the cleanest public transit games during one span. “Since I started vanpooling I arrive at work relaxed,” says City of Santa Clarita environment possible for our customers,” says Deputy ceo John Catoe. • Valley resident Anabelle Kennedy. “There is nothing more important than the safety and comfort of our customers.” “Vanpooling has made my life less stressful and helps me save money on The new standards include a measurable increase in the level of cleanliness gas,” says Christorpher Weaver of Santa Clarita. for all Metro property and stringent vehicle inspection ratings. For information on all Metro vanpool plans, call 1.800.commute and Metro will continue to work with its law enforcement partners, communities, select option 3. • schools, business owners and other public entities to help prevent and 18 remove gra;ti as quickly as possible. • 19 s Marge Hearn is Bike to Work Day joined by the tv broadcast team of Set for May 20 (l-r) Paul Metro is promoting the Los Angeles Sunderland and region’s 10th annual Bike to Work Stu Lantz at = Metro Rail station Day Thursday, May 20, by o ering plaque that prizes to those who register online honors her husband. before that day and pledge to ride their bike to work or school. A new commuter bike, bike accessories and New General Manager Alex Cli=ord, 44, joined Metro three years ago. tap other prizes will be awarded to Card Promises Faster Way To Travel bicyclists who register at Gateway Cities Has New General Manager tap Metro System users will feel like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers as they metro.net/biketowork. Alex Clifford is the new general manager of the Gateway Cities Service Sector. their way from one bus and rail system to another with their tap cards in hand. With gas prices surging, Metro is Clifford has worked 3 years in the operations division. The scheduled introduction of the Transit Access Pass in early 2005 is Metro’s encouraging commuters to try e=ort to create a super network of la County public transit services that can bicycling. As a further incentive, He served eight years as a member of the Riverside County Transportation all be accessed by customers with one form of fare. Metro will offer free rides on its Commission, twice as chairman. He represented the commission as a buses and trains to bicyclists all day member of the Southern California Regional Rail Authority and served as its Embedded with computer chips, the plastic, wallet-sized taps will be Metro and la Lakers May 20 if they board with their chairman for two years. programmed by Metro Customer Centers to hold the equivalent of current bicycle and/or bicycle safety helmet. Honor Play-By-Play weekly, bi-weekly or monthly Metro passes and cash amounts. For eight years, he also served as a board member of the Riverside Transit For more information on Bike to Agency. In addition, he was a member of the Intercity Rail Joint Powers Before boarding a bus or train, passengers will wave the card in front of Man Chick Hearn Work Day and Metro supported bike Authority and the California/Nevada Super Speed Train Commission, electronic fare-reading equipment to validate the pre-paid fare. There is no programs, go to metro.net or call among others. • The Pico Metro Blue Line Station is need to remove a card from a purse or jacket to pay a fare, which will speed (213) 922-2811. dedicated to the memory of the up boardings. • late legendary Lakers basketball tap In addition to Metro, participants will include municipal carriers, mta Planning Manager John Stesney, announcer Chick Hearn. paratransit and Metrolink. a self-described “bike nut” since he was A plaque honoring Hearn has been “The cards represent one of the most ambitious and important customer a teenager, rides his bike from his home in installed at the station, chosen service projects ever undertaken by Metro and will gradually be phased in,” Encino to Metro headquarters in down- for its close proximity to the Lakers’ town Los Angeles. The 22-mile trip takes says ceo Roger Snoble. “All other forms of fare media will be accepted home at Staples Center. one hour and 15 minutes. through the transition to tap.” “For more than four decades, Chick Metro employees will test the cards this summer on the Metro Gold Line and Hearn brought millions of people 200 Metro Buses that operate in the San Gabriel Valley. • together throughout Southern California through their love of the Even before the new cleanliness policy was approved, all Metro vehicles frequently received a Lakers,” says Lakers General Monetary Incentive Helps Metro thorough wash. Manager Mitch Kupchak. “He had Recruit Vanpoolers such a huge impact on this city that New Cleanliness Policy Will Keep Metro Spotless it is a very fitting tribute for Metro to New Metro vanpool riders are reimbursed $100 if they remain in the program The lyrics of a 1950s song –“Take out the papers and the trash” – honor him in this way. As the many for at least 30 days. resonates with Metro. passengers who travel through this station see his plaque on a daily Of the 4,000 commuters who have tried vanpools, 98% continued after the The mta Board has approved an aggressive new Metro Cleanliness Policy that basis, it will keep his memory alive 30 days elapsed. sets high standards for making sure Metro Buses, Metro Rail trains, bus stops, in a very positive way.” The benefits of ridesharing include less congested streets and highways, stations and all other Metro facilities are free of gra;ti and vandalism. Hearn broadcast 3,339 consecutive improved air quality, lower gasoline expenses and rested commuters. “Metro is committed to creating and maintaining the cleanest public transit games during one span. “Since I started vanpooling I arrive at work relaxed,” says City of Santa Clarita environment possible for our customers,” says Deputy ceo John Catoe. • Valley resident Anabelle Kennedy. “There is nothing more important than the safety and comfort of our customers.” “Vanpooling has made my life less stressful and helps me save money on The new standards include a measurable increase in the level of cleanliness gas,” says Christorpher Weaver of Santa Clarita. for all Metro property and stringent vehicle inspection ratings. For information on all Metro vanpool plans, call 1.800.commute and Metro will continue to work with its law enforcement partners, communities, select option 3. • schools, business owners and other public entities to help prevent and 18 remove gra;ti as quickly as possible. • 19 R Los Angeles, One GatewayPlaza eturn Requested Service 1930 1956 1958 CA 90012-2952 2004 2004 2004 heaviest usedline.( Long BeachBoulevard.( Street tooperateinthemiddleof Long BeachasitcrossesWillow C headquarters ofthe cars duringChristmas1930.The Broadway and3rdStreetwith o the for 1958 weretheterminationpoint Rail WillowStation. spot todayjustsouthoftheMetro Blue Linetrainspassbythesame ( Third Street&Broadway ( Willow Crossing ( Rimpau Circle intersection today. Monica BigBlueBusrunsnearthe Rapid Line745servicetheareatoday. 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