Could L.A.'s ambitious transit expansion plans become a victim of Congressional budget battles? The extension of the city's subway and downtown Regional Connector are among the projects funded by the Senate but neglected by the House.
"Sure, the budget battles could shut down the federal government. But they also could have consequences for an extension of L.A.'s subway, California's bullet train and efforts to reduce helicopter noise," reports Richard Simon. "Those are among the lower-profile but still vital issues at stake in Congress' spending fight."
"Los Angeles officials are hoping that a stopgap spending bill that Congress must approve in September to avert a government shutdown Oct. 1 will include funding for the projects," he adds. "But in today's political climate, there are no sure bets in Washington. Last year, Obama included money in his proposed budget for the projects, but Congress, engaged in a similar budget fight, provided nothing."
FULL STORY: California transit projects at stake in Washington budget battles
$2.1 Billion in Federal Transit Funding for the 'Subway to the Sea' in Los Angeles
Los Angeles will receive its largest-ever federal grant, $1.25 billion, to help fund the Purple Line subway, aka the "Subway to the Sea." Also on its way is an $856 million loan from the TIFIA program.
Los Angeles Transit Ridership Grew in 2023
Metro attributes the growth to new destinations, added security, and a streamlined train system.
Newly Opened Regional Connector Redefines Light Rail Transit in Los Angeles
Three rail lines have become two rail lines in Los Angeles, providing one-seat rides from four corners of Los Angeles County.
Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
The 120 Year Old Tiny Home Villages That Sheltered San Francisco’s Earthquake Refugees
More than a century ago, San Francisco mobilized to house thousands of residents displaced by the 1906 earthquake. Could their strategy offer a model for the present?
Indy Neighborhood Group Builds Temporary Multi-Use Path
Community members, aided in part by funding from the city, repurposed a vehicle lane to create a protected bike and pedestrian path for the summer season.
Congestion Pricing Drops Holland Tunnel Delays by 65 Percent
New York City’s contentious tolling program has yielded improved traffic and roughly $100 million in revenue for the MTA.
In Both Crashes and Crime, Public Transportation is Far Safer than Driving
Contrary to popular assumptions, public transportation has far lower crash and crime rates than automobile travel. For safer communities, improve and encourage transit travel.
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