APPENDIX J Digital File Comments - Metromedia.metro.net/projects_studies/westside/appendix/Appendix...

Project Scoping Report

Appendix J –Digital File Comments

W E S T S I D E E X T E N S I O N T R A N S I T C O R R I D O R S T U D Y February 4, 2008

APPENDIX J

Digital File Comments



W E S T S I D E E X T E N S I O N T R A N S I T C O R R I D O R S T U D Y February 4, 2008 J-1

Comment ID

Received/ Meeting FName LName Organization Phone Address City Zip Email Synopsis/Full Text

Summary of Comment Type

1 10/31/2007 Millie Tezanos [email protected]

Has the Venice-to-the-beach route been eliminated from review?

Question about Exposition Phase II

Question

3 10/30/2007 Bette Billet SORONC, Board of Directors

[email protected]

Thanks for your good work. Bette Billet

Appreciation for effort

4 10/23/2007 Andre Morimoto [email protected]

Thanks. I sent in my comments. I'm a native Angeleno and moved to SF this past spring to start a business. But, my heart will always be w/left in L.A. I'll be baaack someday!! Hopefully, we'll have a subway funded and construction started in the next 5 years.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway

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5 10/02/2007 Andre Leb PriceGrabber.com, Director of Business Development

(310) 954-1040 x208

10940 Wilshire Boulevard, 11th Floor

Los Angeles

90024 [email protected]

If there was a line going east west from downtown to Santa monica I’d retire my car for most of the week. I work in westwood, I love going to the beach and the opera downtown but I hate the traffic…

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway along Santa Monica Boulevard

Alignment

6 10/31/2007 John Dravillas [email protected]

Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts. New transit options to westside? YES! I would prefer a subway that went from Hollywood and Vine (my neighborhood) or Hollywood and Highland to Santa Monica(where I work). There are already stations in my community, as mentioned above. I prefer a subway, with the alignment noted above, for several reasons. 1) It is a more direct route for me from home in Hollywood to work in Santa Monica. 2)I've taken subway, light rail, and bus, and only subway meets all important criteria, e.g. timeliness/reliability, fast, and comfortable. Light rail has to slow down through neighborhoods and/or when at grade. Buses are overcrowded, the seats are too narrow (I have to sit leaning forward with shoulders squeezed forward to sit with passengers surrounding me) and


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I always feel ill while on the bus and for a great deal of time afterward. I don't know why this is (the natural gas? the gas fumes? body odor of passengers? not enough O2 in relation to available space and number of passengers? I don't know, but it happens every time). My experience with the red line has been excellent - almost always on time, fast, can usually find a seat, can sit comfortably, when I need to stand ride is smooth (unlike bus where you sometimes get seriously jarred). On subway I can get work done. On buses I cannot, due to reasons mentioned above. 3) Hollywood and Vine/Highland alignment would allow stops along Santa Monica blvd in WeHo, the Fairfax district/the Grove, and if diverted slightly, the Sunset Strip. This would allow access to nightlife as well as jobs. 4) It seems likely that Wilshire will have a dedicated bus line in the near future. Thus there is the potential to have 3 options for traveling East and West: the Expo line south of the 10, dedicated bus line along Wilshire, and subway from Hollywood to Santa Monica. This will allow more communities to be served, and people traveling for various reasons to be served - for work and for entertainment. I have a question. If the Hollywood and Highland alignment was built, would I be able to travel without a transfer from Hollywood and Vine to Santa Monica? Thanks again for this opportunity.

7 10/31/2007 Samuel Masterson Bristol Farms, 915 East 230th St

Carson 90745 [email protected]

Can you describe what an "Alignment/Station" is, as shown on the SE corner of Sunset and Fairfax?

Would like to know about station plans for

Question




Comment ID



We have a Bristol Farms store on that corner and there is very little parking lot there.

Sunset/Fairfax

8 10/31/2007 Hannah Brumer Sunset Square 1623 No. Orange Grove Ave

Los Angeles


I am in favor of a Metro Expansion. I am primarily concerned that the route, should the expansion occur in our neighborhood, be done in a way that it does not travel under our homes. That is an easily accomplished feat, I believe, and a reasonable one given the age of Sunset Square's old foundations and infrastructure [i.e., sewers].

Vibration concernsWants alignment to stick close to existing roadways

Alignment

9 10/30/2007 Dairenn Lombard 4112 1/2 Halldale Ave.

Los Angeles


Even though a "subway to the sea" will take over a decade to build, and cost five billion dollars, the state of California owes it to its most economically important city to keep growth from being stunted by the mobility quagmire of our car-oriented transportation system. Ultimately, I would imagine most people would want a 1,000-passenger capacity train system that is capable of taking people down Santa Monica Blvd. from 4th St. to Wilshire Blvd. where it can then turn right and travel down Wilshire to Western Ave. One of the people that spoke at the meeting the other night had mentioned something where as service is built eastbound, a feeder bus could begin from Western Ave. and connect people to the most recently completed stations. This seemed like the best idea to me. Very few people spoke about their preferred method of transit (Rapid, BRT, LRT or HRT) but it sounded like most people wanted a subway. I would agree because while LRT, IMO, is always a better idea than BRT, both are just as disruptive to traffic patterns. You have to also obtain vast areas of space to establish stations. I sincerely doubt that the

Subway to travel down Wilshire to Western Ave

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upscale communities on the westside would be tolerant of grade-separated stations either. Businesses would fight bus-only lanes because they would argue that it harms pedestrian and parking access. Removing the left turn lanes to build them in the middles of the roadway would meet just as much opposition. And ultimately, a BRT or Rapid solution only satisfies 1/10th of the capacity a subway service could provide.

10 10/30/2007 Stephanie Magnien 813 Alpine Street #109

Los Angeles


I think any new light rail on the or subway on the Westside should stop along place people actually want to go like the bars on Santa Monica Blvd in West Hollywood, the Grove/Farmers Market, Beverly Center, UCLA, and the Veterans Hospital. Service should not end until at least an hour past 2am when the bars close. Metro losses Friday night and Saturday night riders because no one wants to go home at midnight.


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11 10/30/2007 Annette Mercer 2647 Glendon Ave.

Los Angeles


Yes, please build/extend the subway to Century City and Westwood/UCLA/ the VA. I vote for subway or LRT as the best provision of service into the years ahead and the least loss of ridership from changing modes. The SAnta Monica end should connect with the end of the Expo Line somehow. If tunneled, perhaps you could pick up St. Johns and all the medical stuff at 20th Street in SM. The sooner the better.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway Stations at Century City and Westwood/UCLA/ the VA

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12 10/30/2007 Reagan McClymonds 1150 Granville #301

Los Angeles


As a Brentwood resident, I am a big supporter of a transit alternative, namely a subway, for the Westside. It will reduce the need for devoting land to parking and will add immeasurably to the quality of life in Los Angeles. There is no way for the city to widen roads/build underground parking to


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grow responsibly. I don't care what the tax is, I would pay it.

13 10/30/2007 Ted Winterer 2411 3rd Street Apt E

Santa Monica

90405 [email protected] I'm very much in favor of Phase 2 of the Expo Line. However, I feel that from 17th Street to the west the line should run on Colorado rather than Olympic; should run at grade rather than above grade at any stations; a station should be added near Santa Monica College; and Bergamot Station should be an Expo station.

Supports Expo line Question Alignment Mode

14 10/30/2007 Richard Risemberg bicyclefixation.com

648 1/2 S. Burnside Ave.

Los Angeles


Went to the meeting held by Socata.org with Tony Loui and others. Overall was very pleased with what I heard, except for the idea you are studying of extending the Red Line to Santa Monica via West Hollywood, as opposed to extending the Purple Line via Wilshire. The Wilshire Corridor has much worse traffic and much higher present and future densities than the West Hollywood route, and I feel it would be senseless to build the subway extension from Hollywood & Highland to Santa Monica & Wilshire, bypassing hundreds of thousands of residents and tens of thousands of jobs and destination facilities. The Subway to the Sea must definitely follow Wilshire Boulevard. However, I am all for the idea of a light-rail shuttle operating between Hollywood & Highland, and Santa Monica & Wilshire. If I recall correctly, the Los Angeles Railway ran along that route during my childhood, and something like it should again. (And in fact should continue to Century City and perhaps on down to Sepulveda, which deserves a line of its own, from Northridge to San Pedro, some day.)

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard Supports additional buses and LRT

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15 10/30/2007 Richard Best 656 West Knoll Dr

West Hollywood


I'd love to see Metro stations near Santa Monica Blvd in West

Supports expansion of

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#102 Hollywood. The West Hollywood City Council is over-developing West Hollywood, and the city is almost in gridlock now. If Metro were available, those visiting West Hollywood could leave their cars outside the city and make parking/driving much easier for residents.

transit system Supports subway along Santa Monica Boulevard

16 10/30/2007 Raul Cobian 1233 N. Genesee Ave.

West Hollywood


I am the guy who presented you with the "Red-Line" token on Monday evening. Once again I thank you for your consideration in allowing our community to be a part of this expansion sometime in the future. I believe it is a step in the right direction, I hope to be one of the first individuals to ride the system, not if, but when it becomes a reality. Years back, when I was working past the LAX area I had the privilege to drive down the century freeway the day it opened. I was thrilled later to begin to use the "green-line" to go to work which dropped me off across the street of my job on Marine Ave. in Redondo Beach. That project was on the planning stages for many years and I was very happy to see it unfold. Patience is the Key, and with your guidance, I have no doubt that this too will come to pass. Once again, Thank you and Good Luck!

Supports expansion of transit system.

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17 10/30/2007 Rob Bergstein (323) 810-3432 1233 N. Genesee Avenue

West Hollywood


I am fully in favor of a subway line to go along Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. We are totally traffic gridlocked & as West Hollywood is one of the "the" destination points for tourists & parties in Southern California, our success will bring, unfortunately, more traffic if there are no viable mass transit projects. As a member of the City of West Hollywood's Eastside Project Advisory Board, I know there are many exciting


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redevelopment projects in the pipeline for the East side of West Hollywood that would benefit from & be utilized by better, more efficient mass transit. As a West Hollywood resident who worked downtown, I never drove--I always took the 217 bus to Hollywood and Highland and the Red Line from there straight downtown. It might not have saved a lot of time, but it was less stressful than driving and I'd love to have the same experience to go to the West side.

18 10/30/2007 Eric Sievering [email protected]

Thanks for taking my comment last night. I wanted to expand on my comment. What I was trying to say was what I think would be most useful to the transit system would be to focus on building a bus only lane from the beach in Santa Monica east towards Wilshire and Westwood. On the other side of the city I think focusing on building the subway west in segments. I think segments is key here. To make them useable in the next few or five years instead of 20years from now. I think the first priority should be to extend the purple line at least one or two more stops west. I ride the 720 rapid b us to work and get on the red line at Vermont. I skip the purple line because it's not fast enough to get on at Wilshire and western and then transfer to the redline. I think if you extended this line out just one or two stops you would greatly lower the transit time across the Westside via public transit. I would say your next priority would be to build a subway extension down Santa Monica from Hollywood and highland into West Hollywood. That would help ease much of the traffic in the general area. Much thanks


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19 10/29/2007 Bob Abrahams 732 N Poinsettia Pl

Los Angeles


1) Definitely build a subway that runs all the way to the ocean. The existing roads (no freeways) are all quite full already. A subway is needed to avoid intersections and occupation at grade. Other shorter-term approaches might be useful until the subway is built, but that's the long-run solution that's needed. 2) Santa Monica Blvd, at least between La Brea Ave. and San Vicente Blvd. needs to be part of the solution, even if the subway doesn't actually run under Santa Monica Blvd. itself. While my ideal would be Hollywood/Highland to La Brea/Santa Monica and west under Santa Monica, another solution would be a cross connection from Hollywood/Highland to La Brea/Wilshire and also San Vicente/Santa Monica (the MTA facility) to Fairfax/Wilshire. (A lot of MTA employees park in the parking lot there, don't they. They don't even take the MTA to work.)

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway, particularly along Santa Monica Boulevard between La Brea and San Vicente

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20 10/29/2007 Betty Crist 1124 Alvira Street

Los Angeles

90035 [email protected] For westside public transit, I would like to see a continuation of the Red Line along Wilshire, from Western all the way to the city of Santa Monica. I would prefer a subway, but light rail would work too. I do not like buses, nor the proposed one way pair of Olympic and Pico.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard

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21 10/29/2007 Amy Jenner 90036 [email protected]

I live near Pan Pacific Park and I would love heavy rail/subway in my neighborhood. I do not currently use public transit, I drive. But the horrific traffic and parking make living in the city increasingly unpleasant. However, I don't feel safe waiting at bus stops at night which is why I would like to use a subway. I think either route would be great and that it should go all the way to Santa Monica.

Safety Supports expansion of transit system

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I've worked there numerous times and it would've been handy. Most of your study probably has to do with commuters, but I think it would be great to have late service too that can help with the drunk driving problem (especially for the northern route).

22 10/29/2007 Rob Hunt Bristol Farms 7880 Sunset

Los Angeles


The study map currently shows the Sunset/Fairfax stop on the Southeast corner. What is the thinking process on where the stops are located?

Question about Sunset/Fairfax station location

Question

23 10/29/2007 Darwin Lau [email protected]

LA is in desperate need of mass transit like this... I think the west side must be the most congested area in the region. heavy rail with the high capacity is the only solution to help alleviate this situation. I really welcome this project for LA.


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24 10/29/2007 Joshua Blau 7266 Waring Ave

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] Yes, we need ANOTHER line from the Eastside to the Beach. We need a line connecting Silverlake to Santa Monica (call it the "hipster line?". But seriously, need a line that links Silverlake, Hollywood, West Hollywood, UCLA, West LA, to the Beach. There is SO much traffic using the existing corridors. How about bringing back the streetcar on Santa Monica Blvd!!! I prefer Santa Monica Blvd rather than Wilshire. Definitely need something to serve the UCLA/Westwood and Santa Monica/Westside offices to people’s houses more in the Westside. Not a nanny line, a line that will allow people to give up their cars, and go from lively tourist/population centers in Silverlake/Hollywood/West Hollywood, to lively tourist/population centers in Santa Monica/WestLA.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway Look to connect Echo Park, Silverlake, Hollywood, West Hollywood, UCLA, West LA, to the Beach.

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25 10/29/2007 John Halbert 326 S. Normandie

Los Angeles


Flexcar is a company that provides cars on a limited basis, as people need

Economic development

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, #301 them. I don't use it, but I'm tempted to. How about integrating Flexcar into subway planning? For example, put Flexcar stations near the major subway stops, like Wilshire/Western. So someone who lives Downtown but wants to do something in Koreatown could take the Red line to Wilshire/Western, pick up a car at the subway stop, do whatever, and then take the subway back home. That could save lots of time.

opportunity Extend down Wilshire Boulevard

26 10/29/2007 John Halbert 326 S. Normandie, #301

Los Angeles


This may sound a bit far-fetched, but what about naming rights for the subway? Instead of the Red line, you could have the Spielberg line. Or maybe the Paramount Stop at Wilshire/Vermont. Or the Tom Cruise Elevator at Wilshire/Fairfax.

Economic Development opportunities to name stations

Question


Los Angeles


As part of the planning process, I would love to see more attention paid to the bus routes that connect to the existing and proposed subway stations. For example, there are several lines that serve Wilshire/Vermont, but not that many that serve Wilshire/Normandie. What are the plans to increase/supplement existing DASH service, for example? That might alleviate some of the bus/subway divide among transit riders.

Supports expansion of transit system Question regarding expansion of LA DOT DASH service



Los Angeles


How about some kind of underground tunnels stretching out from the local stations, outfitted with, say, moving sidewalks or minisubways? For example, it's a long walk from Wilshire/Fairfax to the Grove at 3rd/Fairfax, and buses between the two are a little slow, particularly on weekends. What if someone could just jump on a moving sidewalk, and be at the subway stop in 5 minutes? It sounds

Supports expansion of transit system





Comment ID



futuristic, but this is the 21st Century.


Los Angeles


I strongly support the Redline going to the Pacific. Some suggestions for the current subway: 1. Buses currently have a scrolling LED announcing the next stop. Something like that would be helpful in subways. Possibly some kind of electronic version of the maps would be good - a blinking light showing where the subway is on the Red/Purple Line. This would particularly help people who don't know which train they are on, which is a problem. 2. More maps of the local areas in the subway stops would be good. There are usually only one or two of these maps, and sometimes they are hard to find. 3. Attendants at the more popular stops would be great. Hollywood/Highland, Wilshire/Vermont, Metro Center would be key. Tourists in particular need help. 4. How about newsstands selling newspapers etc. in the more popular stops? Works in NY.


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30 10/29/2007 Nicholas Saponara 612 S. Flower Street - Unit 730

Los Angeles


The Wilshire corridor is the best route for a Westside connection. The density along the corridor is best suited for subterranean mass transit. IN addition, the Expo Line should be extended west and N-S connectors such as the Crenshaw connection should be pursued. Heavy investment in transit infrastructure is necessary today to protect the social, economic, and environmental well being of Los Angeles and its residents in the generations to come. Mass transit will provide the framework in which responsible land use patterns will flourish, forging an enhanced quality of life for all Angelinos.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports Wilshire subway

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31 10/29/2007 Matthew Horne Pedestropolitans Los Angeles

[email protected]

I am very encouraged by the series of events from Rep. Waxman's


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authoring of, and passage by the House of H.R. 4653, and now the scoping phase is finally here. All of this means that the Westside may finally be better served by Metro. So I say, yes there should be new transit to the Westside and it should be a heavy rail subway, and we should build both alignments. Heavy rail speed and capacity is needed to serve the growing westside. Both alignments should be built because whether traveling for entertainment or business, residents of Hollywood should not have to backtrack on the Red line to Wilshire and Vermont to then transfer to the Purple line to make their trip to the Westside. Similarly residents of the Westside should not have to travel to Wilshire and Vermont to get to Hollywood via the Red line. My statement takes for granted that the Purple line from Downtown to Santa Monica will be built. I see no reason not to build our future mass transit for maximum capacity, speed and seamless entertainment and business travel by completing the Red and Purple line to Santa Monica concurrently. Certainly a bond will be required for such construction, so why not ask Angelino's to accept a larger bond to complete both alignments now, rather than eventually issue a bond later, at a higher cost to repay.

transit system Supports subway

32 10/29/2007 Tim Chaddick 715 N. Hoover st

Los Angeles


Please continue the study of expanded Heavy rail! These possible extensions that you are considering would not only link job destinations, but cultural as well! I would ride every day if this was available, we are fed up with traffic!


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33 10/29/2007 Thomas Di Simone 600 W. Los 90015 [email protected] We desperately need rail service with Supports Alignment




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9th Street #1106

Angeles om grade separations to the Westside. I frequently take the Rapid bus to the Westside, which typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to the 405 fwy. I have also taken the Orange Line over a dozen times, which takes about 45 minutes to go 14 miles. Neither of these alternatives provide real access or speed to get people out of their cars. The Red Line goes about 20 miles in 15 minutes, giving riders a real alternative and the ridership numbers prove it. The density of bus ridership on Wilshire screams for a faster alternative. I think subway or rail with a grade separation from the street traffic are both reasonable alternatives. The Rapid Bus has not made travel any faster or provided real options for commuters and residents.

expansion of transit system Supports subway

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34 10/28/2007 Colleen Cavanaugh Anthony

Los Angeles


I think extending the Purple line subway all the way to the ocean is an imperative that we can no longer ignore. Additional BRT routes are not going alleviate traffic in any meaningful way. I live on the Eastside, and driving to and from the Westside is one of the worst things I can think of doing. I avoid doing things West of La Brea because of the traffic. I believe Multiple subway or light rail lines from downtown to the ocean are necessary in the longterm, but the Wilshire line is the best start. The city should break ground on this extension as soon as possible.


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35 10/28/2007 Robert Davenport 564 Midvale Avenue # 8

Los Angeles


You have to have stops in the middle of UCLA, and Santa Monica College. Not just a stop nearby, and then a shuttle bus. That's what they did at the airport, and it's totally retarded. Does anyone at Metro have a brain? Also, why isn't there a stop at the Hollywood Bowl? You have to put

Connect UCLA and Santa Monica Community College. Wants stop at Hollywood Bowl

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stops where people don't want to, or can't, take their cars. That is where your core business lays. Get a brain, or rent one!

36 10/28/2007 Emily Henry USC Hollywood 90028 [email protected] I think that a West-side extension will revolutionize LA... It should be as all-encompassing as possible though. West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and UCLA should be served on the way to Santa Monica, but a direct service from Downtown to the beach is also desirable. Either way, spider-webbing the rail across LA will make the city much more accessible and encourage people that it isn't necessary to drive all the time. I don't have a car and I love talking public transport to school (the red line and a bus). It is an insightful experience and gives me a chance to connect with LA's communities on the ground. Please do all you can to make this happen, and thank you for your efforts.


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37 10/28/2007 Carl Olson P. O. Box 6102

Woodland Hills

91365 [email protected] A new east-west traffic facility under Wilshire Boulevard would be a terrific public service. The tunnel should be built as a 6-lane expressway for all vehicles, and should not be built for subway trains. These are the advantages: 1. Hundreds of thousands of persons and businesses can benefit daily, rather than the few persons on subway trains. 2. The construction would be much less expensive. No need for stations. 3. There would be no ongoing subsidized operating costs which could cost the public hundreds of millions of dollars annually. 4. Persons who would have used the corridor for a subway would also benefit by being able to take buses on the exact same route. The buses would have much more flexibility of service and routes than the fixed

Does not support expansion of mass transit services. Wants an expressway tunnel below grade on Wilshire for private vehicles.

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subway trains. 5. The expressway could open up for business sooner than a subway. It could be opened in segments for vehicle traffic. No need to wait for delivery of train cars and other installations--which can take extra months. Metro should be maximizing the public benefit for the money. An expressway under Wilshire would be a terrific innovation for improving traffic. Moreover, it could be an excellent example for plenty more corridors to eliminate the perpetual traffic jams on freeways.

38 10/28/2007 John Tanner

Blackman L.A. City Planning Department

[email protected]

The most urgent transportation issue facing our city is the dire need for completely grade-separated, underground rail (i.e. the red/purple line) continuing west down the entirety of Wilshire Blvd (with maybe a quick zigzag to service Century City) all the way to Santa Monica. Also, please study the same type of rail for a potential line from Hollywood/Highland to meet up with the Wilshire line at some point. Community support exists; technology to mitigate methane hazards exists; the redline has been an amazing catalyst for focused development; and the costs of building the subway are only going to rise the longer we wait. Godspeed.


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39 10/28/2007 Dan Kegel [email protected]] Hi! My digital comment is online at http://kegel.com/transit/comment-2007-10-26.html It's an HTML document, mostly plain text, but with a few hyperlinks. If you're going to make the public comments available on a web site or in a .pdf file, it'd be cool if you could preserve the hyperlinks! Please let me know if you receive this ok.

Add service to La Brea

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26 Oct 2007 Dan Kegel

Traffic on the Westside is awful, and there's no room to build more roads, so we definitely need to improve public transit.

Our main need is for faster east‐west service, but because not everyone lives within walking distance of the major east‐west lines, and normal bus service is too infrequent and unpredictable, we need to complete the network of north‐south Rapid routes. In particular, let's add service on La Brea (Hollywood & Highland ‐> La Brea ‐> Stocker ‐> La Cienega ‐> La Tijera ‐> LAX).

To solve our main east‐west commute problem, it seems clear we should build a subway down Wilshire. I've been paying extra sales tax for that since 1980, let's get it done already!

But that'll take at least ten years. In the meantime, I think we should implement a bus‐only lane on Wilshire during rush hour. That would make the bus only slightly slower for me than driving, make commuting by bus much more predictable, and greatly increase the number of commuters Wilshire can handle. We should probably have rush hour bus lanes on Olympic, too; after all, it has more room, and moves faster, so it'd be better for longer distance commutes.




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So: I recommend a subway down Wilshire, a new Metro Rapid line down La Brea / La Tijera to LAX, and bus‐only lanes down Wilshire and Olympic.

But why should we expect communities to accept bus lanes? Remember, we tried a bus lane on part of Wilshire for the last few years, and the neighborhood hated it enough to get it removed recently, even though it was helping bus riders. Indeed, in some parts, mentioning the idea of a bus lane is like waving a red flag at a bull. What could cause such animosity? Well, how about:

• Resentment over loss of beautiful wide sidewalks

• Bus lanes take away a normal lane, causing worse traffic for non-bus-riders

• Hardly anybody in the neighborhood uses the bus

If we don't deal with these issues, the bus lane will fail. Here's how I think they can be solved:

First, agree to cancel the current plans to narrow the scenic sidewalks on Wilshire in the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council area ‐ the bus lane will have to fit in existing right of way there. (In fact, to widen Wilshire would contradict the




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Wilshire BRT Final EIR!)

Second, somehow entice a significant fraction of east‐west commuters to switch to public transit. The 19 April 2007 report to the City Council says that switching 10% of commuters to public transit would cut the impact on mixed‐flow traffic in half. Great! Let's switch 20%, that should get rid of most of the impact.

The city's current plan to entice commuters onto transit can best be described as "build it and hope they come". That's not likely to draw 20% of commuters out of their cars, and it won't kick in until well after the bus lane comes online. To ensure a good start for the bus lane, we should start getting commuters out of their cars even before the bus lane is built.

How to approach this impossible task? We need a coordinated plan like Pasadena's visionary "Traffic Reduction Strategies Study", which lays out a strategy for reducing rush hour traffic by 25%. It makes twelve concrete recommendations; these should be read in the context of the study document, but I'll mention them briefly here:

1. Charge the right price for curb parking

2. Return the meter revenue to the neighborhoods that generate it

3. Invest a portion of parking revenues in transportation demand management programs




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4. Provide Universal Transit Passes

5. Require the unbundling of parking costs

6. Require Parking Cash-Out 7. Strengthen transportation

demand management requirements

8. Improve transit 9. Improve bicycle and pedestrian

facilities and programs 10. Remove minimum parking

requirements for off-street parking

11. Set maximum parking requirements

12. Establish congestion pricing Maybe Los Angeles should do something different, but for sure it should have a strategy of some sort. (Pasadena's making Los Angeles look bad here!)

In addition, we should build awareness of transit service much more aggressively than Metro has done. (In fact, Metro's efforts to that end have been so lackluster that one wonders whether they actually want to attract new riders at all!) Here are a few ideas, for starters:

• help popular locations like LAX, the Grove, LACMA, and Old Town Pasadena set up and run distinctive "How to get here via Metro" information kiosks onsite

• provide a simple, distinctive "How to get here via Metro" button that Los Angeles area businesses, organizations, and attractions can easily add to their public web sites

• work with local




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writers/producers like Steve Lopez, Huell Howser, and Charles Phoenix to identify ways the average person could use transit, and publicise them. (Metro's current TV spots are too fluffy, don't show how to actually get anywhere.)

• rename the popular LAX bus service from Flyaway to Metro Rapid Flyaway. If more people associate Metro Rapid with "a good way to get to LAX", maybe they'd consider also taking it other places

And we should actually make Metro Rapid a good way to get to LAX, especially for underserved high density areas along the Wilshire Corridor, such as Park La Brea.

All the above sounds a lot more difficult and expensive than just building a bus lane, doesn't it? But that's what it will take for the bus lane, and even the subway, to succeed. I just hope the city has the will to do what it takes to solve the Westside gridlock problem. I'm not looking forward to two hour commutes to Santa Monica, which is what will happen eventually if we fail.

‐‐ Dan Kegel

40 10/27/2007 Ramin Bastani 1555 Vine St.

Los Angeles


Please the subway down Wilshire (beyond Western)happen...I suggest you use the property taxes from the parcels along that street to help pay for it. I moved near a red-line station so i could take it to my office downtown. Thanks!


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41 10/27/2007 Carole Magnuson Westwood Hills Property Owners

11147 Ophir

Los Angeles


I am writing on behalf of the community of Westwood Hills, a


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Association, President

Drive neighborhood of 608 single family homes situated between Wilshire Blvd. and Sunset Blvd., west of Veteran Ave, to express support for a new Metro transit alternative that would have a station near the intersection of Veteran and Wilshire. Such a station would serve a wide range of transportation needs of persons of all ages, including those of our residents, UCLA students, staff and visitors, hospital staff and patients, more than 10,000 office workers employed in private and public offices on Wilshire Blvd., and residents in nearby apartments and condominium projects. A new subway or surface rail service would also serve the more than 260,000 persons who attend sports and cultural events on campus and in Westwood Village. To the extent that these persons choose this options, traffic in nearby areas such as ours will be reduced. It should be noted that even at existing levels of usage, traffic demand far outstrips the capacity of the existing infrastructure and there is little opportunity to expand the Westwood Village and neighborhood streets that are currently carrying inappropriate levels of traffic. Westwood is a densely populated center with a variety of urban uses, including a major university and hospital, that insure its status as a major destination that make it an obvious location for a transit terminal. In planning this new transit option, Metro should take care to insure that it is part of a comprehensive transportation system with connectivity to other transit components, such as shuttle connections from Expo to Wilshire

transit system Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard Would like a stop at Wilshire/Veteran




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lines, and with parking or other accommodation for riders who live beyond walking distance of the terminal.

42 10/26/2007 Mark Terwilliger 9001 Dorrington Ave

West Hollywood

90048 [email protected] The Westside desperately needs a viable subway / light rail system that should have been built 20 years ago. The last thing we need are more buses. On streets like Santa Monica Blvd, etc. they cause more traffic than they alleviate.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway/light rail transit

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43 10/26/2007 Gary Russell Wilshire Center Business Improvement Corp

3600 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 1032

Los Angeles


Your statement "It began operations to Wilshire and Western Avenue in Koreatown in 1996." is not correct. The MTA stop at Wilshire & Western is in Wilshire Center. Please correct, thanks. Definition of Wilshire Center and Koreatown are clearly delineated in the Wilshire Community Plan, Los Angeles Department of City Planning, and adopted September 19, 2001; for more information about Wilshire Center please to www.wilshirecenter.com. We need to continue and connect the subway from Wilshire Center to Miracle Mile to Beverly Hills to Century City and to Westwood. It is critical for our future that this work starts soon.

Please correct Wilshire Center reference. Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard

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44 10/26/2007 Greg Ames Trammell Crow Company

2049 Century Park East, Suite 2600

Los Angeles


1) Westside extension should be underground rail, following both proposed Santa Monica Blvd & Wilshire Corridors. 2) Stops should include adequate parking for drivers to arrive at rail, and proceed via mass transit from that point. If drivers do not have the ability to "park and ride" they will not ride. 3) North-South connection between Expo Rail and new Westside Extension is a must. 4) Westside extension should anticipate stops necessary to accommodate positioning of future North-South lines (to LAX?)

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway Would like to see park/ride lots. Needs north/south connection between Expo and project

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45 10/26/2007 Lawrence Braman 1541 S Ogden Dr

Los Angeles

90019 [email protected] I encourage you to re-examine a monorail system along some of our major boulevards. The cost is evidently far less than a subway, and the building speed far faster. We need alleviation now, not 20 years from now. I also would like to see a non-polluting system (i.e. electrical or magnetic), whatever it may be. I would be happy to have any kind of transit station in my neighborhood, the Pico/Fairfax area. Thank you for your work.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports monorail

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46 10/25/2007 John Nunez 121 South Hope Street #502

Los Angeles

90012 [email protected] As a downtown resident who experiences daily commutes to my job in Hancock Park, a subway extension along Wilshire Blvd. to Santa Monica is an absolute must. Buses and cars already vie for precious lane space. Adding more busways or grade level rail will only intensify the gridlock on continually clogged streets. A subway, extending along Wilshire Blvd. with stops in Century City, Beverly Hills, Westwood and Santa Monica is an investment that will offer viable, fast transport through dense neighborhoods.


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47 10/25/2007 Larry Boring HHWNC 1428 N Orange Grove

Los Angeles

99046-3906

[email protected] I live in the Sunset/Fairfax area and we already have excellent service here. I can walk to the corner of Sunset and Fairfax and take a bus(no transfers required) to Pacific Palisades, Beverly Center, Wilshire Blvd., Westwood and Red line station(5minute trip) on Highland. Hollywood doesn't yet need a subway extension down Hollywood Blvd to Fairfax to Santa Monica West to Beverly Hills. More importantly, the Red Line stop at Western and Wilshire needs to be extended all the way down Wilshire to Santa Monica. The Wilshire line should be the number one priority.


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We in Hollywood could then easily get to the extreme westside by our feeder bus lines connecting to a Wilshire/Fairfax station; also, we could easily connect to the Expo line farther down Fairfax quite easily as well.

48 10/25/2007 Cathy Des Lauriers 1325 N. Genesee Ave.

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] Please improve transit on the Westside. I like the subways and light rail, since they don't get stuck in car traffic. I prefer Santa Monica Blvd over Wilshire because it is closer to me. Please put a station in my neighborhood. Santa Monica & Fairfax would be perfect. Fewer transfers are important to me, as is the reliability. Also, more transit at night and weekends.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway and light rail

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49 10/25/2007 Htin Hlebovy 8415 Edmaru Ave

Whittier 90605 [email protected] SUBWAY along Wilshire Blvd TO WESTWOOD !!!!! It can be extended to the SF Valley or the beach later. P.S. When are Whittier and Pico Rivera ever going to get a Rapid Transit or rail line ?????



50 10/24/2007 Gale Baker 1501 Termino Avenue

Long Beach 90804 [email protected] In addition to supporting investing money in subways in general, I strongly support the "subway to the sea" concept along Wilshire all the way to Santa Monica. Among other things, subways are much faster than buses or light rail trains that have to cross intersections with traffic, can hold many more people, and are much more environmentally friendly (no exhaust, no contribution to traffic problems, no loud train noises or unsightly trains and tracks near houses, etc.).



51 10/24/2007 Allison Mannos Los Angeles

[email protected]

I believe that a Wilshire rail or subway extension will be the most obvious or best way to serve our needs as Angelenos, even though I also believe


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that a Santa Monica Blvd. corridor is necessary, as well, but more as a secondary corridor. I think that a Bus only lane is possible and should be the target for Santa Monica in the near future. Bike lanes are also crucial... That's all for now, I don't actually live in West Hollywood, but do take the Santa Monica bus out there a lot...

along Wilshire Boulevard Would like to see extension from Hollywood/Highland at a later date.

52 10/24/2007 Allison Mannos Los Angeles

[email protected]

Hi, I got the email and promptly went to the website looking for the comment form, which was supposed to be under the "project website", the only website given was the Westside Sector one, which didn't have a comment form, or the project listed. Anywho, I just wanted to send along my comments, please forward to the appropriate individual... I believe that a Wilshire rail or subway extension will be the most obvious or best way to serve our needs as Angelenos, even though I also believe that a Santa Monica Blvd. corridor is necessary, as well, but more as a secondary corridor. I think that a Bus only lane is possible and should be the target for Santa Monica in the near future. Bike lanes are also crucial... That's all for now, I don't actually live in West Hollywood, but do take the Santa Monica bus out there a lot...


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53 10/24/2007 Gaye Smith 1712 Rotary Drive

Los Angeles

90026 [email protected] On Monday and Tuesday (Oct 22, 23) of this week, I waited more than 30 minutes for either a #4 or #704 bus at SM blvd & Ave. of the Stars from 6:30 to 7:05. This is way too long to wait for ANY bus. Also, the #704 buses are very crowded in the morning between 8 and 9 o'clock with many people having to stand in the aisles. This isn't acceptable either because it isn't safe - what would happen if there was a collision? There needs to be more

Supports expansion of transit system, by adding more buses to the #704 route.




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buses on this route.

54 10/24/2007 Gabriel Sermeno Mayor's Office of Housing & Economic Development West L.A., LA Business Team, Associate

(213) 978-0616 200 N. Spring Street, 13th Floor

Los Angeles


Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend this meeting. Will there be any more additional meetings? By the way, great job with these meetings, I think we'll get some good feedback.

Are there additional meetings.


55 10/24/2007 Allen Bleiweiss 1334 N Genesee Ave

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] YES we need an extension of the line. YES we need a station at Sunset/Fairfax. YES the line should go all the way to Santa Monica. This should have been done years ago. DONT TALK ABOUT IT. DO IT!!!!!

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway along Santa Monica Boulevard Wants stop at Sunset/Fairfax

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56 10/24/2007 Christine Musselman 25286 Michelle Lane

Moreno Valley

92553 [email protected] As a long-time resident of West Hollywood who now lives in Moreno Valley but still works at UCLA, I have the following suggestions for consideration: -Extend subway along Wilshire all the way to PCH. -Have a stop at Westwood or any of the nearby cross streets. -Work with Metrolink to ensure that schedules include express rides from outlying regions such as the Inland Empire to ensure fuller use of rapid transit.

Supports expansion of transit system Increase interagency connections Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard Would like a stop at Westwood Boulevard

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57 10/24/2007 Amy Raff 90035 [email protected] We are not able to make the meeting but as you know traffic and congestion is only getting worse. L.A> should have a subway like any other big city along Wilshire which is the main corridor of the city .From the east to the ocean. A subway that would be clean and safe. Something has to be done soon.


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58 10/23/2007 Christophe Davidson 4214 Studio City 91604 dr- I would like Metro to consider an Supports Question




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r Troost Ave, #14

[email protected]

extension of the Purple Line along Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica. If the subway is too expensive and takes too long, is it still a possibility that a dedicated bus or light rail corridor could be created along Wilshire Boulevard from Wilshire-Western to the Pacific Ocean? In this way, the current 720 line could be replaced either by an aboveground Purple Line or a "Metroliner" bus like the Orange Line, which seems to be a resounding success.

expansion of transit system Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard, Supports additional buses and LRT

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59 10/23/2007 Matt Petersen [email protected]

We need light rail, subway, and dedicated bus lanes - the Westside is in crisis mode from traffic, and air quality is worsening.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway, additional buses and LRT

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60 10/23/2007 Lynn & Bill Lustig Spaulding Square Homeowners Association

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] 1.yes transit needs to be improved. 2.more buses/light rail above ground 3.NO - WE DO NOT WANT A SUBWAY STATION ON SUNSET & FAIRFAX. FURTHER WE DO NOT WANT ANY SUBWAY SYSTEM RUNNING UNDERNEATH OUR RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD!!!!!!!!!

Supports expansion of transit system, but does not want subway. Supports additional buses and LRT

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61 10/23/2007 Lynn & Bill Lustig Spaulding Square Homeowners Association

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] 1.yes transit needs to be improved. 2.more buses/light rail above ground 3.NO - WE DO NOT WANT A SUBWAY STATION ON SUNSET & FAIRFAX. FURTHER WE DO NOT WANT ANY SUBWAY SYSTEM RUNNING UNDERNEATH OUR RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD!!!!!!!!!


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62 10/23/2007 Bonnie Ferron 22266 Schoenborn St

Canoga Park


The Olympic option makes more sense to me than running a line along the freeway. However, eventually you need to have the subway go to UCLA. You also need to have a direct line

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway along Olympic

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"over the hill" from the Valley to the Westside. Only then will you have a comprehensive system. As well, the Metro Orange Line should trump cross traffic. There's absolutely no reason a bus should have to wait for cars at cross streets. Mass transit should be our priority, not cars.

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63 10/23/2007 Michael Bratkowski 91604 [email protected]

About bloody time! Thank god some one is thinking ahead at MTA. God bless that! Now, the next item on the list should be additional access through the 405 alignment for light rail. Most of the basin now has light rail and subway (thank you for the Red Line very much), so let's get something going from Santa Clarita south along the 405 alignment all the way to LAX...and I mean TO LAX, not NEAR LAX. The El Segundo line should have gone ALL the way TO LAX...not just NEAR the bloomin' airport. Look at London and New York and pretty much every other major world class city. They have subways going TO their airports...not NEAR their airports. Even Vancouver has figured this out and is on the way to having a line completed TO YVR (the airport in Vancouver). Got it?! Hope so! Now DO something about it!


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64 10/23/2007 Jonathan Yee ADVANTEC Consulting Engineers, Inc., Engineer

909-860-6222, Ext. 111

21700 Copley Drive

Diamond Bar


I was unable to attend the previous scoping meetings, and was wondering if I may be emailed a pdf copy of the powerpoint presentation? Please let me know, thanks.

Seeking additional copies of PPT presentation

Question

65 10/23/2007 David Donald UCLA Student 6650 Hayvenhurst Ave #221

Van Nuys 91406 [email protected] I greatly support the construction of transit in the Westside - traffic is practically unbearable. I think the Wilshire Blvd route is preferable. It provides a faster route to downtown, which is probably where most users of the line would most want to go. In a perfect world, there would also be a


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line serving West Hollywood, but I don't think that should be the priority route. Ideally, the line would continue the Purple Line's heavy rail so that passengers could stay on the same subway cars from the Westside to Downtown, or vice versa. (Because honestly - what good is the Purple Line if it's only 2 stops) Extension at least to Westwood, to serve UCLA, would be practically necessary. But if possible, the line's extension to Santa Monica would also increase its utility. On the FAQ page, the transit time from Wilshire/Western to Santa Monica is estimated as 25 minutes for heavy rail and 67 for "Rapid Bus" - does "Rapid Bus" include exclusive right-of-way bus lines like the Orange Line? Is it really that slow? 67 minutes for this distance is so slow that I can't see it getting much greater ridership than the current bus lines serving the same areas - in other words, only those riders with absolutely no alternative transportation. I appreciate the opportunity to comment.

66 10/22/2007 John Gove P.O. Box 2081

Irwindale 91706 [email protected]

My name is John Gove, and I have lived my entire 30 years in the San Gabriel Valley. I am a resident of La Verne and have been for 24 years. My contact information is P.O. Box 2081, Irwindale, CA 91706. On an opening note, I want to say thank you for opening the discussion of a Westside Extension to the users of MTA service and residents of LA County. While most of my local options pertain to buses, I enjoy using rail (especially the Red Line and SCRRA's Metrolink) whenever possible for my excursions into Los Angeles. Seeing that a discussion about two alignments is in progress, I am encouraged to see that


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the debate about necessity is behind us. Modality is the primary concern and alignment a close second. Though I live on the other side of the county, I believe my tax dollars should be spent on a quality product, not necessarily the cheapest one. Having said that, I believe subway is the far superior mode for two reasons. First, Los Angeles is blessed with freeways; the speed an flexibility that a car provide is amazing, most of the time. However, asking someone to give up flexibility AND speed is a marketing disaster. Fixed rail sacrifices flexibility, but when grade separated, it can out-perform car speeds during crunch periods, when speed is most desirable. At-grade light rail is neither flexible nor speedy. There should be an upside to giving up your car! I despise most of the Gold line for it's sluggish pace and relish the Red line's speedy trip between Union Station and Hollywood. My friends and I sometimes debate whether we should drive to Union Station from Pasadena and then get on the Red Line. That conversation usually ends with us driving to Hollywood. The Red Line suffers because of the Gold Line's failure. Weak links in the network have trickle down missed opportunities for ridership. Second, a below grade separation is preferable to an above grade option for real estate and neighborhood considerations. I studied in Singapore for 5 months and rode their MRT, which is above grade out of the city center. It is both noisy and obtrusive (though quick). Property valuation and that quintessential perk of a "suburban quality" exposure to a sunny Southern California day would take tangible




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hits. I heard a symposium of famous photographers who shoot Los Angeles agree that the city is first and foremost a city of homes. That is a quality of life MTA should respect in it's infrastructure considerations. The Westside (and I propose most of the LA Basin) have only one quality solution on the table. Subway is the smartest solution. If I am completely honest, I think that side of town could use BOTH subway alignments. To wrap it up, I was reading articles and blogs about the alignment meetings and was impressed by a perspective I heard. A gentleman said the MTA should visualize a master rail web and design these alignments with that in mind, though the complete web may be a generation away. It is frustrating to see each component politicized into an ever expanding non-cohesive product.

67 10/22/2007 Leo Barkhash Santa Monica

90405 [email protected] I just wanted to express my support for the metro line extension to the Westside. I live in Santa Monica and work in Downtown LA and struggle on the freeway every day, the traffic is always bad in both directions! I would happily welcome the opportunity to take the subway to work, if it was an option. Right now we are all clogging up the freeway, since there's no other option for getting to downtown. Thanks!


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68 10/22/2007 Megan Lester Los Angeles


We want a metro on the Westside! Please keep this project moving!!!!


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69 10/22/2007 Anthony Kaan 1850 Whitley Ave #1110

Hollywood 90028 [email protected] Extending both the RED line from Hollywood to Santa Monica, and the PURPLE line down Wilshire all the way to Santa Monica should be major

Extend both lines Alignment Mode




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priorities for our city. I would get rid of my car in a second if that was the case. It is the only thing keeping Los Angeles from being a world class city.

70 10/22/2007 Jennifer Chen Los Angeles


I would prefer a subway to the Westside. It really needs to have a stop at UCLA and go all the way to the ocean. A subway versus other modalities will be the best for long-range planning, as it has the highest capacity and will be the least subject to impact from future worsening congestion problems.


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71 10/22/2007 Nathan Johnston [email protected]

I am in strong support of a "subway to the sea". The sooner the better. Stops in Beverly Hills and Century City are musts.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway Wants stops in Beverly Hills and Century City

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72 10/22/2007 Eileen McCormack 10969 Rochester Ave #209

Los Angeles

90024 [email protected] As someone who lives about three blocks south of Wilshire, and works right on Wilshire in Westwood, I am enthusiastic about extending the Purple Line west on Wilshire Blvd - all the way to Santa Monica, if possible. To begin with, even an extension to Wilshire & Westwood, so people who live generally on the Westside could go straight downtown would be terrific. But the very idea that I could access a subway a few blocks from home that would take me all over the city is very exciting. My husband works in Beverly Hills, and he also views this extension as a good thing. I think that's something that needs to be pointed out - not only would you have some people who need to traverse the entire city off of the roads and on the subway, but you would also wind up with people who take shorter trips (like Westwood to


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Beverly Hills) who may also opt for the subway on a fairly regular basis. I know that the above is a self centered perspective, and I didn't go into my views on the environment or the general traffic & quality of life situation of the denizens of LA, but I know that you have advisors who are truly qualified to offer such opinions. I just wanted to offer the POV of one Westside couple who love the idea of extending the subway west on Wilshire. Thanks!

73 10/22/2007 Justin Urcis [email protected] Hello: I would like to voice my support for an extension of the Red Line to Santa Monica. This would be vitally important to sustaining LA's stature as an important global city. I can attest firsthand that many young people refuse to move to Los Angeles because of a lack of public transportation options. A subway would have such wonderful positive effects for the city (culturally, socially, economically) that we really must move forward. Thank you for your consideration.


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74 10/21/2007 Marisabel Almer [email protected]

Please extend the red line subway to the ocean, or as close to it. If it can't be done underground, do it above ground, but something is needed, please!


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75 10/21/2007 Christopher

Holloway Los Angeles


Please extend the subway (purple and red lines) west to the Westside as soon as possible! It should be made bicycle and bus connection friendly, as well as having parking structures for commuters using cars. Also, it would be good to connect the two westward lines somewhere with a north-south line, perhaps near Sepulveda.


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76 10/21/2007 Austin Naughton PO Box 71391

Los Angeles


I am a Los Angeles resident who commutes from the Century City /

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Beverly Hills area to my job at Fairfax High School by bicycle. I am therefore interested in seeing public transit options that are as bicycle-friendly as possible. This would enable us bicyclists to reach Westside destinations and the Pacific Ocean bike paths with greater ease! As a former resident of Boston and New York, I am in favor of rail routes that are not impacted by street signals/ traffic!

77 10/21/2007 Terri Alexis PO Box 12982

Marina Del Rey

90295 [email protected] Yes! Please do all you can to make the Metro subway line continue all the way into Santa Monica and also the other one into Culver City! We Westsiders need a better Eco way to get around the city!


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78 10/21/2007 Davis Mikaels 323.377.3474 [email protected]

I support the Westside Extension subway/light rail or any form of train you want to build all the way from downtown to the sea... please build it... we need it desperately. This great city won't have a great future if we continue to rely solely on automobiles. I absolutely love Los Angeles... so it hurts to say this... LA is not the greatest city in the world... and that's because of our lack of nimble/quick public transit. However, we can change that... and I believe a subway to the sea will be an amazing start toward the road of becoming the greatest city in the world. Public transit is needed for a successful future. Please don't give up on it. This city supports this endeavor. Make it happen!


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79 10/21/2007 R F [email protected] Why not include a light rail that goes straight up and down the 405 and also east-west on the 10. Be far more useful than another lane. Also, developing countries like malaysia or china build a subway system in a few

Needs north/south connections

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years, but we are talking 2015, 2020 to even get a few westward lines? it is kind of pitiful...

80 10/20/2007 Kelly Hamm 310-213-7263 725 29th St. Manhattan Beach


re: purple line and subway to the sea. I would love to see a line running through Beverly Hills to the sea and also from La to the sea. some suggestions however: 1. consider a monorail instead for cost. I know space is at a premium, but a high tech futuristic quiet running monorail would be less expensive than a subway and allow people to ride the train to see the city rather than being in a tunnel. Look for easements above the sidewalk down Wilshire and maybe incorporate the line into commercial projects along Wilshire. it must be quiet though, and considerate to the neighborhood. Also, more people would ride if they saw a fast train shooting along while they were sitting in their cars. 2. look at automating the trains and getting rid of the drivers to save costs. use computers and make the train as accurate as tokyo. ontime no matter what. . . 3. look at allowing bicycles and riders to have the back car to themselves or at least bicycles on the trains. One car that has bike racks and seats. 4. look at adding a business class section or car. this would be a draw for professionals or people that would like to pay more for a little luxury. Also, allow vendors to operate in the morning on the cars. Maybe allow a coffee vendor on the train. 5. allow companies to bid on wi-fi service on the trains. 6. allow companies to install tv's in the trains. I don't care about watching commercials, on long rides people would appreciate watching shows or

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway connecting Beverly Hills Provide bicycle amenitites Plan for North/South connections Look for ways to minimize transfers

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news similar to sitting in the doctors office and watching tv. this can be used to generate revenue. 7. highly look at incorporating the current expansion of the 405 with a line going north south. maybe look at placing some foundations or doing preliminary ground work. we need a monorail from the valley west side through the sepulveda pass and to la or the airport. 8. I would like to say also that many times I have considered riding the metro, but I find it takes longer than just driving. why? for one. you need to transfer 4 times to go from manhattan beach to pasadena. you should connect the lines so that trains run from the south bay all the way to pasadena. I know currently you have to get off and wait for another train. how silly though. I'm sure it would take considerable money and work to connect the lines, but all lines should be interconnected so that you can go from one area to another and only have to change trains maybe twice. going north south and then getting on an east west train. 9. back to the 405 metro line. I would highly recommend having a line go along the 405 and having a stop at the airport. this is such a no-brainer. more lines should go directly to the airport without having to transfer trains. 89 10. I would allow taxi companies to bid on a service which puts a button on the trains and hails a taxi so that when you show up at a certain station there's a taxi waiting for you to take you the remainder of the way. 11. I would also greatly reduce or lower the taxes that are incurred when taking a taxi. I believe right up front you pay 2.00 just to get into the taxi. Make riding a taxi cheaper so that people




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ride the train and then taxi the remaining mile or so to work. 11. back to having a train that goes from south bay to pasadena. If all the tracks were computer operated and all the trains could go anywhere, you could then start allow private/public companies the ability to buy train cars and put them into service for certain functions. For example, the UCLA football games. You could have a specially painted UCLA train or trains that could be at the redondo marine station and that takes all the fans to the rose bowl. UCLA may pay a reduce fare or the fans whatever, but more people would ride the train. It would be computer controlled and travel along the rails without a driver. It would go directly to the pasadena station. 14. I have more ideas but I'll leave it at this. I think the website is horrible. I think it can be greatly improved and simplifed. I would also change the name of the metro to something cool like the La monorail or la . . . . metro sounds like a bus. 15. I also have some ideas for the security on the trains. 16. One more note. the trains need to be quiet, like the disneyland monorail. look at adding rubber wheels or some friction reducing elements. Also, look at adding sound barriers outside of the wheels to minimize sound disturbance going through neighborhoods. I wouldn't mind a monorail in my neighborhood if it was quiet. In fact, I think many neighbors would encourage a monorail if it was sleek, futuristic and quiet. 18. another bonus of a monorail which the city of las vegas totally blew it. a monorail can be installed with a glass ceiling so that the ride is




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spectacular. what a way to draw riders to the monorail. a starlit, city ride on a futuristic high-speed monorail to the ocean. I would take that more often. I really think that if you work with the city of santa monica and offer commercial property owners along wilshire more development rights (higher height limits more useable space, gross area per lot. etc) they would consider allow a monorail to go through a certain portion of their property. The first 10' from their property line back into their property. Imagine from the sidewalk back 10' and also 15' above the street a sleek monorail which cuts through buildings as it meaders to the sea.

81 10/20/02007

Robert Finnerty 1000 Tellem Drive

Pacific Palisades

90272 [email protected] The Westside urgently needs rapid transit to downtown LA as well as south to LAX. Please do whatever possible to get a subway build along Wilshire Blvd. as quickly as possible. The cost of building this line is much less than the cost to residents from not having it.


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82 10/20/2007 David Batterson Whittier, CA

Whittier 90602 [email protected] Yes, let's build it! This is a no-brainer. And let's put it on a fast track to get it started. As Nike says: "Just Do It." ;-)


83 10/20/2007 Christine Musselman 25286 Michelle Lane

Moreno Valley

92553 [email protected] A metro stop at Westwood and Wilshire is vital to pulling the entire southland community together. A major university like UCLA deserves a station, and the sooner the better. Just think of the traffic and parking mitigation if just a portion of the 60,000+ daily visitors to UCLA use the subway instead of drive. In addition, my major hope is that the Metrolink can be more fully used by those of us who live in the Inland Empire but work in Los Angeles, or in my case UCLA. Currently, it's a train that goes nowhere for us as we cannot


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easily and quickly get to the Westside once we arrive in downtown L.A.

84 10/20/2007 Don Sveen 1 Indian rd east

Kingston, NH


I lived in LA for 17 years and probably my biggest reason for leaving is the backwardness of the transportation system. It destroys quality of life!!! Do not listen to the naysayers. They seem to have some bizarre political motivation. The Red Line extension and the Wilshire Subway (purple line) both look beautiful, and would be the next step in making LA truly a first class city. Do whatever it takes, and maybe I'll move back. p.s. Next go north up the 405 and west all the way on 101 to Woodland Hills, just like the original plan. Whether it's light rail or a subway, just build something!


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85 10/20/2007 John Dravillas [email protected]

Just want to vote 'yes' on any subway to sancta Monica, although my strong preference would be to extend the red line from Hollywood and vine. Thank you for your efforts. John


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86 10/20/2007 Michael Miller [email protected]

YES! YES! YES! Build the subway to the Sea.


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87 10/19/2007 Michelle Reeves Los Angeles


I think a subway line is needed on the Westside to reduce traffic. This will also add incentive for people to shop and dine on the Westside without having to worry about driving and parking. Santa Monica Blvd would be the best choice going through West Hollywood and to the beach.


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88 10/29/2007 Andre Morimoto [email protected]

The Westside needs help. Build the Subway. Preferably, I like to see not only a Wilshire Extension but a H/Highland extension to meet up with the Wilshire branch. Thank you!

Supports expansion of transit system Supports Wilshire subway

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89 10/19/2007 Jonathan Christie 1801 S Wilton Place

Los Angeles


So if I don’t live along the routes who cares. Are you planning any north south routes to involve people that live in Mid Los Angeles?


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90 10/19/2007 Lori Strickler 1930 Holly Drive, 11 C

Los Angeles


Yes--please build a subway to the sea! I live in Hollywood and commute to my job as a law librarian in Westwood via the metro bus lines 780 & 720/920. It currently takes me approximately 1 hour & 10 minutes to get to work by 9 AM and my commute home at 5:30 or 6 PM is anywhere from 1 hour & 15 minutes to 2 hours in length. The buses are almost always crowded and quite often too full to even pick up any passengers at my stops (Hollywood/Vine, and Fairfax/Wilshire), requiring me to wait 10-30 minutes for another bus. I love public transportation--it's better for the earth and allows me to be productive during my commute but I'd also love to spend more time with my family and less time on the road! Thank you.


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91 10/19/2007 Dana Simmons University of California, Riverside

375 E 2nd St #219

Los Angeles

90012 [email protected] For L.A. to become a world-class city, it is critical for the Subway to the Sea to be constructed. If Shanghai, Cairo and Portland can do it, so can we.


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92 10/19/2007 Joseph Chiu 555 Manhattan Drive

Boulder, CO

80303 [email protected] I used to work in Beverly Hills, but took a transfer to our Boulder location. I plan to return to the L.A. area in a few years, however, and hope that the Westside Extension is approved by then. My commute from Pasadena to Beverly Hills was hell, whether by driving or by using Gold Line, Red Line and the Rapid Bus. One of the things that sours the use of public transit is to wait to connect


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between two lines. Might I suggest that the Expo and the "Wilshire" lines connect in such a way that the trains can continue all the way and run a loop? Somewhat like the Green Line (Yamanotesen) in Tokyo? Here's hoping for a future in L.A. with lot less time wasted in traffic!

93 10/19/2007 Ian Swett Pasadena 91104 [email protected] I would like to strongly support the extension of both the red and especially the purple line all the way to Santa Monica down Wilshire. I live close to the gold line in Pasadena, but most of the places I would want to go are in Santa Monica and Westwood, so the gold line really isn't that useful to me without connecting lines going to West LA.


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94 10/19/2007 Maria Menendez 22 W Green St #204

Pasadena 91105 [email protected]

I think the Wilshire Subway Expansion is a great idea. I use the current metro system and would use it a lot more if the proposed route was built


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95 10/19/2007 Dustin Davis 90028 [email protected]

I am very much in favor of a subway to the beach from downtown and/or Hollywood. Running it past 2 am on weekends would also curb a lot of drunk driving.


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96 10/19/2007 Jason Kliger 11948 Darlington Ave #6 Los Angeles CA : 90049

Los Angeles

90049 [email protected] I fully support a subway along the Wilshire corridor all the way to Santa Monica.


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97 10/149/2007

Brad Brauer 217 Moonstone Street

Manhattan Beach

90266 [email protected] I am definitely a proponent of a subway from Santa Monica to downtown, with significant portions under Wilshire Blvd. As a UCLA graduate, I would also recommend a stop near campus to serve the


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academic community. Thanks for the hard work.

98 10/19/2007 James Jackson Los Angeles

90064 [email protected] Yes, please bring a subway to West LA.


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99 10/19/2007 Laura Cohen 4500 Murietta Avenue, #4

Sherman Oaks

91423-5440

[email protected]

I've been riding the Red Line for years. I believe extending the Purple Line all the way to the beach is an outstanding idea! Next: What about a Yellow Line running under the 405 Freeway to connect the Purple and Orange Lines? I guarantee it will be the most heavily used subway in human history.



100 10/19/2007 Adam Rakunas 1044 14th Street

Santa Monica

90403 [email protected] Please, please, please, for the love of God, bring rail to Santa Monica. Both the Expo Line extension and the Subway to the Sea need to happen, and I will go on record saying that I will gladly accept any tax increases for subway construction to the Westside.


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101 10/19/2007 Ellen Yang 506 N. Kilkea Drive

Los Angeles


I used to live in Echo Park and commuted the 10/110 freeways to my work in Santa Monica for two full years. After spending on average 2-3 hours on the road everyday (the worst was 2 1/2 hours coming home on a Friday) I've come to realize that the traffic is crippling the city of Los Angeles and without a sound subway system, traffic will only get worse. (I tried taking the bus on numerous occasions and could not get the commute to less than 3 hours round trip.) Please, Los Angeles needs a subway system desperately! It's the only viable long term solution. I'm glad to hear that the extension of the purple line down Wilshire is mostly


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unopposed. I'd also argue that the red line extension should run down Santa Monica. Having it run down Sunset would be too far North for the many people who live farther South, such as on Beverly or 3rd. Whereas Santa Monica is a nice compromise; people on Sunset could walk down to Santa Monica and people south of SM could walk up. Thanks for receiving my input. You have the full support of Angelenos.

102 10/19/2007 Katherine Lisiewicz 3541 Keystone Ave.

Los Angeles


Please bring rail and subway to the Westside, and please make both bike-friendly. There needs to be a way to transport bikes on any kind of train, and a way to store them securely at stations.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway Include bike amenities

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103 10/19/2007 Andrew Maximous City of Santa Monica

3160 S Barrington

Los Angeles


It would be a huge mistake to implement a bus mode on theses corridors. I think that an extended subway line is the best alternative because it does not require additional R/W or widening. The Metro Rapid busses are always stuck on Wilshire with the grid-locked cars. Why not REWARD transit users by giving them a rail line with a highly reliable schedule and by-passes all of the traffic at all times and on every day of the week. The Wilshire alignment should be implemented first due to the high densities along the corridor. The corridor should go beyond the VA and into West Los Angeles and Santa Monica to help workers get to their jobs in the area. A parking structure at the VA would be good for commuters using the 405 to use instead of paying or finding parking at their job locations in BH, WLA, SM and beyond. This structure can also be the new Westwood hub for the LAX


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Flyaway service instead of the current limited use of the UCLA lot 32. Thank you for your time.

104 10/19/2007 Rachel Castignoli 278 C Ave Coronado 92118 [email protected]

I keep a winter home in Pasadena and I like taking the Gold Line, please add the west-side extension so I can go to the beach. Also add a dodgers stop.

Supports expansion of transit system Would like a stop connecting to Dodger Stadium

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105 10/19/2007 Seanine Bird [email protected]

I would love to be able to get from home (Wilshire near Bundy) to work (universal studios) without having to get into my car. All the current transit options would just take me longer. This route would be a fantastic way to open up the transit system in an efficient and effective manner.


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106 10/19/2007 Matt Lucero 3405 Holyoke Dr

Los Angeles


We need a subway now, not a temporary solution of expanding highways or bigger, and more buses to further clog our freeway and streets. Our current subway is inefficient for our commuting needs. It is not very bicycle friendly as more and more commuters are biking in from the east side of Los Angeles and downtown to Mid-Wilshire and the west side. In the coming years, with the growth of downtown Los Angeles, traffic will be far worse than it is today. And if we do not plan for this shift, we are going to be forced to move due to overcrowding, contrary to the hopes of the city. Why are we the last major city to not have efficient transportation, and by efficient transportation I mean a working subway system? I am ashamed to say that I live and commute in L.A.


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107 10/18/2007 Roberta O’Donnell Wilshire Park Association, President

666 S. Bronson Avenue

Los Angeles

90005 [email protected] I live one short block from Wilshire and Crenshaw. I personally use the bus/subway system frequently, my 23-year-old son and 20- year-old daughter

Supports expansion of transit system Does not want to

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are both 100% transit dependent, and my daughter commutes from her home in Long Beach to Los Angeles via the train twice/week. We are completely for better public transit - the bus rides are brutal - the passengers are abusive to each other and the drivers and are frequently violent; the service is spotty and slow; and the facilities, especially the subway station at Wilshire/Western, are filthy, populated by people selling counterfeit goods, lying comatose on the sidewalk and demanding handouts - there is no security that anyone can see. It all needs improvement. However, the one thing I really don't want to see is a transit station at Wilshire and Crenshaw. First, this is not a "destination" - it doesn't have thousands of jobs, it has zero retail (by careful design and planning); it is a low density, largely single-family-home neighborhood, and is all either established or developing HPOZs for several miles in every direction. After decades of hard work to preserve the area and protect it from the kind of development that has made Koreatown what it is, this station would be the last thing that would be welcome by the community here - keep the stations out of residential areas. Second, when people get off the Crenshaw Rapid at Wilshire, they head immediately to Western, where all the real connections are, and from there, you can get everywhere in the City, from Hollywood to Pasadena to Long Beach and beyond. If the Crenshaw line ended up at Western and Wilshire, it would be far more useful. Third, Wilshire and Western is

see a station at Wilshire/Crenshaw Would like more information about system connections




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probably less than a mile away - too close for Wilshire and Crenshaw to be a good choice. Finally, many of the speakers at the meeting on Tuesday accused the community at large of being elitist and racist- I personally feel that any person who accuses an entire community, made up of individuals they have never met, of one of the worst and most immoral.

108 10/18/2007 Simon Halls [email protected]

i oppose the building of a station at sunset and Fairfax...i also oppose any tunneling under my residential neighborhood at sunset and Fairfax. I strongly urge you to move said station down to Santa Monica and Fairfax, which is a much more commercial zone... thanks

Opposes stop at Sunset/Fairfax Vibration concernsPrefers alignment follow Santa Monica/Fairfax

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109 10/18/2007 Bonnie Sikowitz Sunset Square Neighborhood Org.

1601 N. Orange Grove Ave.

Los Angeles


I OPPOSE the Northern or "Santa Monica Alignment." And I STRONGLY OPPOSE a stop at Fairfax and Sunset. If one of the evaluation criteria is community acceptability, our community of single-family historic residences between La Brea and Fairfax DOES NOT FIND THIS ACCEPTABLE. I GREATLY FAVOR THE WILSHIRE ROUTE. IF THE "SANTA MONICA ALIGNMENT" is studied, IT SHOULD BE ROUTED ALONG COMMERCIAL SREETS ONLY. VIA LA BREA TO SANTA MONICA W/ STOPS ON SANTA MONICA.


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110 10/18/2007 Eric Tooley EricTooleyDesign.com

1741 Maltman Ave

Los Angeles

90026 [email protected] I think that both the Red and the Purple lines should be extended to Santa Monica. If I had to choose I would extend the Red line from Hollywood first and maybe later on the Purple line. I don't see why bond money could not be raised to fund this urgently needed project.


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111 10/17/2007 Shawn Kumar [email protected] I would like to see a study of the Supports Alignment




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om purple line under wilshire boulevard to the sea, be studied. i think this project is the most vital infrastructure project in southern california.

expansion of transit system Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard

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112 10/17/2007 Lynn Lustig Los Angeles


Tunnels for extension of underground subway system should be restricted to running underneath major streets and not through residential areas.

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113 10/17/2007 Ryan Snyder 431 S. Burnside Avenue #10c

Los Angeles

90036 [email protected] I favor BRT with dedicated bus lanes along Wilshire Blvd. and west side other streets. This would be far more cost-effective that any type of rail. It will leave money available to improve more than one line as well. Also, some of the earlier concepts involve bus turnouts. These make it difficult for buses to re-enter traffic. They also take sidewalk space. I prefer normal curbside boarding or center lane boarding. I also prefer bus bulbs to pullouts.


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114 10/17/2007 Neel Sodha Los Angeles


Wilshire corridor (extension of the Purple Line) ‐ subway all the way to 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica having a direct connection to the Expo Line's terminus. Preferably a subway station like that of 7th Street/Metro. Ensure a Purple Line stop at Constellation/Avenue of the Stars in Century City. Pink Line: Continue from Hollywood/Highway towards Santa Monica Blvd and make major stops at La Brea & La Cienega. Head south towards a connecting station at Century City with the Purple Line. Head further south to a new terminus at Venice Beach. Underground all the way as the corridor is heavily developed and will continue more development.


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115 10/17/2007 Amy Aquino Sunset Square HOA traffic committee

P.O. Box 461653

Los Angeles


I live north of sunset, on Curson, in a landmarked 1915 bungalow among many lovely older homes. I am also very active in traffic issues and a huge supporter of the extension. I assume that exhaustive analysis would be done before doing anything that might endanger our historic neighborhood, correct? And I would like to know if it is feasible to run it in part along the old trolley route from Hollywood/LaBrea to Santa Monica/FairfaxBlvd? This land is still undeveloped in areas, and where it is the buildings are (perforce) newer and doubtless sturdier and more flexible.

Supports expansion of transit system Possible trolley system


116 10/17/2007 Matthew Hetz Los Angeles


I am a longtime transit rider and advocate. From my personal experiences, I prefer rail over the bus, but I realize that with the costs involved in rail, and the sprawl of the city, buses will remain the backbone of the mass transit system. However, rail offers the riders a much better ride, and are more fuel efficient which means less pollution and less global warming gases. I also favor subway as it is the fastest form of mass transit since it, obviously, does not have to worry about road crossings. I am against transit systems which are completely elevated, they would seem to be very risky in the earthquake country of Southern California. If, and when, a major temblor strikes here, I would think it is much cheaper, and faster, to repair rails on the ground than to repair elevated sections of a mass transit system. Also, my personal observation notes that subways do not seem to sustain great damage in earthquakes: In the 1985 Mexico City earthquake the subway system was used as an emergency

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway Earthquake protection

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command center. BART was soon running again after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake whereas the freeway collapsed and the bay bridge was badly damaged. Our own subway was operating shortly after the 1994 Northridge earthquake. Traffic is only getting worse, and there is the dire need to reduce air pollution and global warming gases from vehicles. I believe we must quickly build transit systems with known and tested technologies and not get stuck on looking for alternatives. Thank you.

117 10/17/2007 Dairenn Lombardo 4112 1/2 Halldale Ave.

Los Angeles


I would like to see the Purple line extended all the way into Santa Monica via Wilshire Blvd. if possible. I would also like to see the new Expo line that is being built ran to the same terminus, possibly even to the same station so that you could take an elevator, perhaps, down to the subway. I would be strongly opposed to any new BRT solutions. It is not scalable, is not as environmentally friendly (CNG still produces CO2, the "global warming" gas, unlike use of electric train sets, which can at least be partially powered by cleaner sources of energy, such as Nuclear some day). There are capacity problems, infrastructure issues (rubber tires beating up the roadway surface, the beaten up roadway surface wearing out the tires and suspension systems on the busses, the BRT coach vehicles are NOT level with station platforms, and thus cannot board wheelchairs without ramps, etc). I also think that in the future, a I-405 viaduct train should be considered for connecting LAX to the valley, and possibly an LRT rebuild of the Orange line. Thank you for reading this.


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118 10/17/2007 Erika Herman [email protected]

I am unable to attend the meetings today and tomorrow regarding the Westside extension program, but I am excited about the prospect. Better, expanded public transportation routes are JUST what Los Angeles--especially the Westside--needs. I grew up on the Westside, and know that I wished MANY times for better public transportation there. Please make this happen!!


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119 10/16/2007 Laura Cody Curci 323-436-0048 1533 N. Orange Grove Avenue

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] I am a Sunset Square homeowner, and although I favor a Westside expansion, to do so under our neighborhood is something I disagree with. Our homes are quite old, and even though we are in the center of the city, there exists a neighborhood calm. Perhaps a route under a major thoroughfare would make more sense. Highland to Santa Monica for instance. Please keep me informed as to any developments.

Vibration concernsWants alignment to stick close to existing roadways

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120 10/16/2007 Hani Alexander 452 S. Sherbourne Drive

Los Angeles


I fully support the subway extension, under Wilshire all the way to the ocean. I am a single-family home owner who lives 2 blocks north of Wilshire btw Robertson / la cienega and would use this line extensively both west and east.


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121 10/16/2007 Doug Painter Sunset Square Homeowners Association, Committee Member

1620 N Genesee Ave

Los Angeles


As a resident of and homeowner in Sunset Square (the area north of Spaulding Square where the proposed subway extension is being proposed), I FULLY SUPPORT THE PROPOSED WESTSIDE EXTENSION PROVIDED A COMPLETE STUDY IS DONE REGARDING POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPACTS ON THE NEIGHBORHOOD WITH EACH PROPOSED ALTERNATIVE ROUTING. THERE ARE MANY RESIDENTS WHO WANT A

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SUBWAY STOP HERE BUT WHO FEAR THAT THEIR HISTORIC HOMES MAY BE MORE VULNERABLE TO FOUNDATION PROBLEMS, AND WE NEED YOUR ASSURANCES THAT THEY ARE NOT.

122 10/16/2007 Douglas Seagal [email protected]

I'm all in favor of extending the Los Angeles subway to the West side. However, as a resident of Sunset Square (North Orange Grove between Sunset and Hollywood), I'm very concerned about that route passing under our homes. There are a number of reasons including noise, vibration, safety, loss of value, etc. It would seem a more natural route to have the subway travel under Hollywood Blvd. to La Brea and then follow La Brea down to Sunset and then under Sunset to Fairfax or drop below Sunset if desired. By following this route, there would be little to no residential impact and the subway would follow the natural course of the commercial streets. Thank you for your consideration regarding this.


123 10/16/2007 Julia Mason 1601 N. Sierra Bonita

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] I believe any tunneling should be done under major arteries, such as Wilshire Blvd. There is existing, convenient north south transportation on Fairfax, La Cienega, etc. The tunnel could then follow Highland over the canyon to the north. The area north of Santa Monica Blvd. is full of older houses such as mine, which was built in 1911 and many of them have unreinforced masonry foundations which is a seismically unsafe construction and therefore unsuited to heavy tunneling and drilling underneath. Common sense suggests that any tunneling be done where the existing structures are more likely to


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be stable.

124 10/16/2007 Alyssa Phaneuf 517 victoria ave

Venice 90291 [email protected]

I am strongly in favor of the subway to the sea. I am not able to attend the outreach meetings, but please keep me on your list so I can continue to express my support.


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125 10/16/2007 Michael Bratkowski Studio City [email protected]

I'm not sure if you guys are the right guys to speak with on this. If not, please advise me as to who is. After looking over some of the planning paperwork you guys have put out, it appears to me that the Westside is being left out in the cold, mass transit-wise. The congestion in Century City and West LA is getting worse and worse, what with more office space being added. Carpool lanes will not help. It seems to me that the best solution is a subway line from Valencia through to LAX, using the 405 as its corridor. That would be a great solution. Even better would be to have it swing over towards Century City. I have not been able to find any contact info for the planning dept. The Red Line to downtown LA has really helped the 101 corridor. The 101, while not fast, is tolerable. Any information to help solve Century City congestion would be great, and I don't mean just van pools and stuff. Those are ok, but aren't a real solution, as they don't add actual transportation capacity. They still rely on already established corridors of transport. Thank you for any attention on this matter.

LAX and Century City congestion

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126 10/16/2007 Steven Metz Curson and Sunset Neighborhood watch

1530 N. Curson Ave

Los Angeles


I am wondering if you will please put an access point at fairfax and sunset. I am completely in favor of a subway here.


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Wants stop at Fairfax/Sunset

127 10/16/2007 Mike Sikowitz Sunset Square Neighborhood Organization

1601 N. Orange Grove Ave

Los Angeles

90046 [email protected] I strongly oppose tunneling under the historic single-family residence neighborhood between Sunset and Hollywood Blvd./ La Brea and Fairfax Blvd. As there are numerous other ways to route the expansion under commercial streets (i.e. Sunset, La Brea, Santa Monica,) the disruption and damage to one of the last great single-family pedestrian neighborhoods in Los Angeles seems TOTALLY UNNECESSARY.

Opposes stop at Sunset/Fairfax Vibration concernsWants alignment to stick close to existing roadways

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128 10/16/2007 Brandon Reese [email protected]

When considering the subway extension to Santa Monica, I believe that express tracks should be seriously considered as it 12 miles from the coast to the current terminus at Wilshire/Western.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway with express service

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129 10/15/2007 Andrew Mollner 1120 1/2 S Doheny Dr

Los Angeles

90035 [email protected] I feel the expansion of the existing red line to connect both Century City and Westwood/Santa Monica with downtown would have a huge impact on traffic/congestion in Los Angeles and should be one of MTA's highest priorities. As someone who used the Gold Line in the past, I am not convinced that at‐grade rail is a viable option because of slower train speeds and competition with automobile traffic. I would love to see more above‐grade rail lines because the weather in Los Angeles is so nice, I think people would enjoy riding Metro more on an above‐grade than below‐grade rail line.

connect both Century City and Westwood/Santa Monica with downtown

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130 10/14/2007 Gaile Krause Mount St. Mary's College

8711 Falmouth Ave. #101

Playa del Rey

90293 [email protected] I am happy to see a westside extension being considered. Having it come as close to Playa del Rey as possible would make it more convenient. I also hope you consider bringing back the Line 625 bus thru

Needs north/south connection between Expo and project

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Playa del Rey. Maybe that could connect with a westside extension. I have had good experiences on the Blue/Green/Gold/Red lines, but it takes too long to get where I need to go from home. I do use it occasionally. I hope you are also considering an extension/station between USC and Mount St. Mary's College and Trade Tech. Thank you.

131 10/13/02007

Erick Sanjurjo Hollywood United Neighborhood Council

1820 canyon drive #103 90028

Los Angeles


You have the wrong link up for the map of the area being considered for the red line extension/purple line. Your link goes to the proposed downtown connector line. Might make sense to include a link to Beverly Hills and West Hollywood's proposed lines, both of which run along Wilshire along with through their respective cities.

Update website Question Alignment Mode

132 10/13/2007 Victoria Butler-Sloss 123 N.Wilton Place

Los Angeles

90004 [email protected] I would like to fill out a questionnaire, thanks vix Subway is the way to go. All the way to the beach from downtown- the way it was envisioned originally. A station every few blocks so you get pedestrians and business picks up.A bus that does the same route and an interchangable ticket for all transport- a pass. Look at London UK


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133 10/13/20007

John Sundnes 431 N. Hayworth Ave.

Los Angeles


Los Angeles's lack of a comprehensive mass transit system is a total embarrassment. The only meaningful environmental study on whether to proceed or not is the potential reduction in Carbon emissions, which is extreme if the project moves forward. Please do not listen to any other silly arguments that are secondary in importance. Los Angeles needs to finish the Mass Transit system. We are all tired of the repeated embarrassments like - failing to complete the green line to the Air Port, allowing the old red line tracks to

Supports expansion of transit system. Cites environmental concerns




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be pulled up, failing to charge money for riding the subway (no turnstiles or modern ticket machines), failing to sell advertisement space to private companies throughout the system, stopping lines short of their useful routes. We are the only large city in the civilized world without a completed mass transit system. Please stop the wait, and FINISH LOS ANGELES. If you don't, you are harming your OWN kids futures.

134 10/13/2007 Victoria Butler-Sloss 123 N.Wilton Place

Los Angeles

90004 [email protected] I would like to fill out a questionnnaire, thanks vix

Incomplete online submission.

135 10/12/2007 Simon Lee [email protected]

MTA should build more subways all over LA as much as any cities in Asia or Europe, so people don't need to drive.


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136 10/12/2007 Roger Yu [email protected] Yes! Let's bring the rail to the westside.


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137 10/12/2007 Albert Chung [email protected] It seems the study area map (http://www.metro.net/projects_programs/westside/Study%20Area%20Map.pdf) of the Westside Extension Transit Corridor Project doesn't match the description of the text?

Website question Question Alignment Mode

138 10/12/2007 [email protected]

This is a test. Webmaster testing email function

139 10/12/2007 Megan D [email protected]

the new routes are a much needed addition to LA. Any plans for north-south routes connecting the 2?


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140 10/12/2007 Edward Anastas 310 452-7452 1336 Oak St Apt A

Santa Monica

90405 [email protected] Please reference page 153 of PDF document

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141 10/12/2007 Gary Drucker 107 North Martel Avenue

Los Angeles


I attended last evening's presentation at Pan Pacific Park. My reaction is that the best mode and route is 1) subway down Wilshire Blvd. and certainly to a Santa Monica City terminus. 2) The city badly needs north-south routes,


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too. Without these, we will never have a high-speed transportation system that will be effectively utilized. Most importantly, there needs to be something along the San Diego Freeway. Light rail might be most affordable and adequate there. A secondary north-south route should be La Cienega or Fairfax into La Cienega. This one would need to utilize some kind of elevated light rail, like the Gold Line, due to the heavy auto traffic. In short, I'm pro-urban. If I wanted to live a more suburban life, I could sell my home for a good amount and move far away. It's also my impression that most people in this neighborhood are urban-oriented. I look forward to my wife and I getting by with one car once we retire with the back-up of a superior public transportation system. Thanks for the opportunity to comment

142 10/12/2007 Joseph Hastings 1118 10th St. #3

Santa Monica


I was unable to attend the meetings regarding the westside extension. I would like to offer the following comments: 1. We have proven that buses do not work in Los Angeles, since the bus has to fight through the same traffic and stoplights as automobiles do. 2. Bringing clean, quick, and efficient rail transportation is the single best way to improve the quality of life for many angelenos. 3. The long-term financial benefits in terms of saved time, decreased pollution, and the stimulus to local economies will far outweigh the admittedly large short-term investment in rail. I for one would be willing to pay an additional tax for that investment. Thank you.

Supports expansion of transit system, but no expansion of bus service until additional rail enhancements are added.

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143 10/12/2007 Roxane Stern 11053 Strathmore

Los Angeles


I am a resident of Los Angeles and live in Westwood Village. The


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Dr. congestion in my neighborhood is getting worse every day. As it is, just driving across Wilshire Blvd. can be a time consuming exercise. We must provide better ways to move people. Cars and bigger freeways don’t make any difference. So, alternative means must be created. Subways that link to each other and go to places that people want and need to go will be the first step in addressing this problem. Is Wilshire corridor better than Santa Monica? No, but Santa Monica is not better than Wilshire. We need both lines to more people in less time NOW. Meanwhile we should be developing more transportation options. First, the Orange line buses are very well used in the valley and should be implemented in the city. Again they move people faster than a car can. Don’t worry about parking spaces for commuters. With a comprehensive public transit system in place people will be able to leave their cars at home. If building 2 subway lines is not feasible then make one corridor a light rail operation. I don’t know this, but I suspect fewer homes and business would have to moved if we go underground. Light rail must be cheaper, but it comes with a high price tag of displacing many people where they live or work. You have a timetable which I know cannot be speeded up, but time is of the essence. There is gridlock on the streets and the freeways. The pollution from all the cars is not healthy so we need relief and we need it now. I grew up in the Valley. I remember talking about the monorail that was going to connect LA with San Francisco. That was 50 years ago! I lived in Virginia the entire time that a

transit system Supports subway along Wilshire Boulevard




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metro system was built in the Washington DC area. When completed, it changed many lives as commuting times were cut down, traffic was helped by so many cars off the road (unfortunately there are still a lot of cars out there) and it was an efficient and economical way to travel. That can happen here, too. We must go forward to improve our travels in Los Angeles. Please do everything you can to make our city more livable.

151 10/09/2007 Dane Lane 122 Idlewild Road

Severna Park, MD

21146 [email protected] I am a current Maryland resident, but will be relocating to Los Angeles early next year. It cannot be said enough how vital the Westside Extension of the Purple Line is. While LA is a world class city, it severely lacks one thing that every other world city has: viable mass transit options. Please, do what ever is necessary to get the purple line done and more importantly, done right. Light rail and BRT simply are not options. People will not want to transfer from one mode to another halfway through their trip. They will not use such a system and will stay in their cars. In addition, this line will only work if it is completely separated from automobile traffic. Building an underground subway is the only option. If you venture to other major cities, it becomes obvious that mass transit is currently experiencing a renaissance. The age of the everexpanding freeway is over. It has been proven time and time again that if you widen a freeway, it is only a matter of time before it becomes gridlocked once again. Plus, with LA being surrounded by mountains, the last thing the region needs is more pollutionspewing automobiles stuck


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in gridlock. Please complete this extension all the way to Santa Monica and help bring Los Angeles out of the 1950's and into the Twenty-First Century. Thank you.

152 10/09/2007 Derek Blume BFX 2715 Abbot Kinney Blvd #7

Venice 90291 [email protected]

I am in favor of a subway, possibly an extension of the Redline. I believe the track should run down either Wilshire or Olympic, both run a convenient course across the city, Olympic is slightly more convenient for people that live below Santa Monica. The track should extend all the way to Santa Monica.


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153 1/09/2007 Edward Kwok 3530 Wilshire Bl, #1260

Los Angeles


I support the extension of a railway, NOT a bus line, to the west Los Angeles. That's the area highly in demand for a rapid transit system. People've been sick and tired of the traffic on the surface road and highways in the area for decades.

Supports expansion of transit system, below grade

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154 10/08/2007 Roberto Garcia 7828 Day Creek Blvd. #1426

Rancho Cucamonga


I currently take a Metrolink into Los Angeles for work and I enjoy the Metro Rail system but hate the fact that a subway doesn't reach the west valley or the westside. In an ideal world, the red line would extend into the west valley replacing the bus line, the purple line would extend straight along wilshire(with stops in beverly hills and century city) ending in westwood. There would also be an additional connecting line from the red line near the 101/405 all the way down to the expo line (which goes to the sea, santa monica) also linking the purple line extension (in westwood). These lines would finally get people out of their cars and unclog the 101 and 405 freeways.

Supports expansion of transit system Supports subway Wants N/S Connections with 101/405

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155 10/08/2007 Derrick Lo [email protected] Would either the Wilshire or Santa Monica alignments be built in separate phases, similar to how the

Construction schedule for Wilshire and Santa

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Comment ID



existing Metro Red/Purple Lines were built?

Monica alignments

156 10/08/2007 Jessica Dabney 8447 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 200

Beverly Hills


I believe that a subway is the best way to tackle the congestion problem. I believe that the subway should run along Wilshire Boulevard and I would be thrilled if there was a stop near where I live (Fairfax and Wilshire) and where I work (La Cienega and Wilshire).


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157 10/08/2007 Josh Epstein 527 San Vicente Blvd #308

Santa Monica

90402 [email protected] Traffic is the worst part about living in this city. This emergency requires immediate solutions. I encourage you to build as many rail lines ASAP. I will happily give up my car and commute on the train. I support the extension of the Expo Line and the Subway to the Sea down Wilshire. Let's build these now!


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158 10/08/2007 Michael Doherty 1980 Cummings Dr

Los Angeles


Add to Stakeholder list

Question

159 10/07/2007 Mark Johnston 4185 VAN BUREN STREET, CHINO, CA 91710

Chino 91710 [email protected]

Please reference page of PDF document

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160 10/07/2007 Mark Johnston 4185 VAN BUREN STREET, CHINO, CA 91710

Chino 91710 [email protected]

Don't just make s subway straight shot down Wilshire.. We need to start connecting destinations, not keep missing them... After the extension starts from Western, need to curve up to parallel 3rd street to Farmers Market/Grove, then down 3rd to Robertson/San Vincent= Beverly Center and hospital. Downtown Bev Hills, then Century City and then curving up to UCLA/ Westwood village, before heading through the VA property back to Wilshire and on to Santa Monica... WE HAVE TO START LINKING DESTINATIONS, NOT KEEP MISSING THEM...

After the extension starts from Western, need to curve up to parallel 3rd street to Farmers Market/Grove, then down 3rd to Robertson/San Vincent= Beverly Center and hospital. Downtown Bev Hills, then Century City and then curving up to

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Tourists by the thousands will go to Farmers Market and the 2 shopping centers. Students from UCLA will do the same...

UCLA/ Westwood village, before heading through the VA property back to Wilshire and on to Santa Monica

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Friday, November 02, 2007 12:07 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: James Watt lastName: McCormick organization: COALITION FOR RAPID TRANSIT address: Post Office Box 157 city: Pacific Palisades state: CA zipcode: 90272 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 11:06 PM -0800

comment:

For the record, the principle points made in verbal testimony were that: 1. The ideological prejudice embedded in the presentation that the "subway alternative to Santa Monica" was inconceivable "in our lifetime" unreasonably truncates the scope of investigation into alternative approaches for delivering the complete western extension of Metrorail to Santa Monica through accelerated construction such as multiple boring segments executed simultaneously; 2. All alternative approaches to delivering a comprehensive rapid transit mobility solution to intractible surface street and freeway congestion on the westside must be included in the current study, including, but not limited to, a combination cut and cover/bored tunnel appraoch in multiple segments undertaken simultaneously.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Thursday, November 01, 2007 11:59 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: James Watt lastName: McCormick organization: COALITION FOR RAPID TRANSIT address: Post Office Box 157 city: Pacific Palisades state: CA zipcode: 90272 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 10:58 PM -0800

comment:

For the record, the principle points made in verbal testimony were that: 1.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Barbara lastName: Broide organization: Westwood South of Santa Monica Blvd. Homeowners Assoc. address: P O Box 64213 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90064 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 10:09 PM -0800

comment:

It is imperative that planning move forward to identify a route for public transportation from the Central City (connecting with downtown) to Santa Monica through the westside that does not compete for street space on traffic clogged Blvds.

While it is important that whatever route is selected be fairly direct and provide users with a well-paced trip, whatever route is ultimately chosen must include stops in downtown Beverly Hills, Century City, Westwood/UCLA, the VA. The ability to service the Museum Row, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and and have some connectivity with the Grove/Farmers Market) would create the kind of quilt necessary to meet the needs of the City and its residents.

Our community, which lies to the west of Century City, is being suffocated by the traffic of commuters who seek to reach Century City from the north, south and west and from the 10 and 405 Freeways. We have a major City Center/employment center in our backyard and no transportation infrastructure to service it. The City continues to approve construction and added density in the area and still there is no public transportation slated for the area. This project must answer that need. If underground,there is no need for it to follow either Wilshire or Santa Monica Blvds.; it can be a hybrid and need not travel beneath either street. It may be best to plot the stops and then draw the lines that best connect those dots.

The major question remaining is, HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE to determine the type of transit and to raise the funds to build it? Is the cost of a subway so high that we need to identify a different methodology? We cannot wait longer for the commitment to be made and the work to be done. Each delay results in ever higher costs and years of added congestion. The situation is no longer an inconvenience; it is an impediment to daily living - having negative impacts on the quality of life of those without transit options, on those who live between employment centers and are being trapped in their homes and in their cars.

Can this proceed in the foreseeable future? Will it happen in our lifetime?

We wish to be involved and informed about future progress. Please keep us informed.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: William lastName: Bell organization: address: 2525 Outpost Drive city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90068 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 06:31 PM -0800

comment:

I strongly support the extension of the subway west from Hollywood & Highland to at least Westwood and preferably to Downtown Santa Monica. I feel the Wilshire subway is justified as well and don't know why a station cannot be provided at Wilshire/San Vicente/La Cienega and then run the subway up San Vicente to have a station at Cedars-Sinai and the PDC before joining the line from Hollywood under Santa Monica Boulevard. I also think that the line to Hollywood does not necessarily have to tie into the tunnel to NoHo. I'd rather have the Westside line to Hollywood sooner and at lower cost, with a quick transfer for people coming from the Valley, than to have to wait an extra ten years to fund and construct a line that would tie into the tunnel under the Hollywood Hills. We needed this subway 15 years ago, so please move ahead as

quickly as possible. The political momentum and public support have built for this project due to the horrendous traffic we're now living with. We no longer consider going to Santa Monica from our house in Hollywood because it's an hour in stop and go traffic. We would if there was a subway. We take it Downtown to the theater and sports events and it is great.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Eva lastName: Pilik organization: address: 1625 North Curson Avenue city: Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 06:16 PM -0800

comment:

My concern after living in the area for 48 years is that the our natural granite protection under canyons like Curson and Nichols will be destroyed and a tunnel will not withstand an earthquake or heavy rains. Years ago there was a lot of underground water coming down Curson and Nichols Canyon. Heavy rain years will cause these tributaries to run underground again and undermine tunnels? These are very old and fragile houses. Heavy trucks that are allowed now on the residentual streets speeding by shake the house and small cracks appear each year. A train underground would not do the same? Eva

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: Gresham organization: Secretary, Executive Committee, Wilshire Homeowners' Alliance address: 696 South Bronson Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90005-3601 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 05:10 PM -0800

comment:

NOTE: Mr. Mieger: The following letter was mailed, hard copy, postmarked 11/01/07, to your attention. In addition, a copy of the Park Mile Specific Plan was mailed to your attention under separate cover. Please replace this version with the hard copy when received.

Dear Mr. Mieger:

This letter is to provide comment regarding the Metro Westside Extension Transit Corridor. My name is John Gresham and I am writing in my capacity as Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Wilshire Homeowners’ Alliance (the “WHA Executive Committee”), an organization representing 12 neighborhood associations in and around the Park Mile Specific Plan Area. The Park Mile Specific Plan includes the area along Wilshire Boulevard between 6th Street and 8th Street, from Wilton Place to Highland Avenue.

Your staff asked that the following questions be addressed by the community during the public meetings and during the comment period. The WHA Executive Committee discussed options for the Metro Westside Extension Transit Corridor at its September, 2007 meeting.

Q - Does transit need to be improved on the Westside? A – Everyone agrees that transit needs to be improved in Los Angeles – on the Westside and elsewhere. The WHA Executive Committee would prefer that a quick, effective, low-cost and flexible solution be implemented. For this reason, we stress that a well thought-out bus system is the only immediate answer because it can be implemented relatively soon (in our lifetimes), at a lower cost than other alternatives, and is flexible enough to adapt to changes in schedule and demographics and routing. Since Wilshire Boulevard runs through the low-density Park Mile Specific Plan area, we would suggest that this is an appropriate 1.4 mile stretch to test dedicated bus lanes, or dedicated rush-hour only bus lanes.

Q - Do you prefer subway, light rail, more buses or another mode? A – We prefer more buses along with an extensive network of bus routes and, where appropriate, dedicated bus lanes or rush-hour only bus lanes. Buses are a solution that can be implemented quickly, is relatively inexpensive, and can be adapted to the changing needs of the citizens and workers in Los Angeles … and can be relocated if a mistake is made. The worst failure of a rail system is that the route becomes ineffective. A prime example is the Green Line built to serve the many defense contract workers who no longer work at its terminus. The Green Line even stopped before the airport. Now, even though everyone wishes the Green Line could continue on to the airport, we have waited years for plans, and for funding, for the will to adapt the ill-conceived system to the City’s changing needs. A rail system cannot be moved; buses can simply be rerouted.

Q - Do you like a Wilshire or a Santa Monica Boulevard alignment better? A – We prefer the alignment that will have the least negative impact on our low-density community and that will cost-effectively

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serve the most riders, especially the transit-dependent. Right now, the solution that makes the most sense is to purchase more buses, expand routes and stops, and implement methods to make riding a bus more efficient, like dedicated bus lanes or rush hour-only bus lanes.

Q - Do you want a station in your neighborhood? A – No. We do not want a station in our neighborhood because it makes no economic sense and would be impractical. [This question from Metro and the community presentation we attended seemed to imply that heavy rail will be the option, and that there are preliminary plans for a station at Bronson-Lorraine (Crenshaw) and Wilshire.] This intersection is surrounded by low-density, single-family residential housing consisting of two Historic Protection Overlay Zone (“HPOZ”) neighborhoods and two other nascent HPOZs also filled with low-density, single-family residences. It is a long-established tenet of Los Angeles City Planning (see Wilshire Community Plan and Park Mile Specific Plan) that the area between Wilton and Highland, and the intersection at Bronson-Lorraine (Crenshaw) and Wilshire, should be preserved as low-density neighborhoods that provide contrast to the higher-density “centers” in Wilshire Center and the Miracle Mile.

This intersection is the heart of the Park Mile Specific Plan, a legal document specifically conceived by the community, the City Planning Department, and the City Council to allow only low-impact Wilshire Boulevard business uses (no retail, for example) and to buffer the effect of those limited commercial uses on the adjacent R-1 zoned, single-family residences.

A transit station is advisable only in a location where there is existing adjacent high density development, indicative of high demand for access to transit. Alternatively, a transit station could be considered at a location which has the potential to accommodate the high-density development necessary to supply sufficient riders to warrant a station. Such potential, of course, would have to be supported by appropriate zoning (re-zoning in the case of our community) and a desire by the adjacent neighborhoods and City Council to change the existing nature of the community by increasing the density to something that would warrant construction and operation of an expensive station. Otherwise, the station simply will not be cost effective.

Therefore, a station location at Wilshire and Bronson-Lorraine (Crenshaw) would be ill-advised because it would be completely surrounded by a very few low-density, non-retail commercial parcels and extensive low-density HPOZ residential neighborhoods. The ridership simply won’t be there. It obviously is better to locate transit stations at major intersections such as where Western Avenue, La Brea Avenue, and Fairfax Avenue intersect Wilshire Boulevard. These are the intersections where there are major north-south bus line intersections for passengers making connections.

We note, too, that the Crenshaw Rapid Bus already makes the short, several-block jog to the existing Western Avenue Metro Red Line Station. Those few blocks of bus travel are far more cost-effective than building a $100 Million-plus subway station between Bronson and Lorraine … just four long blocks west of Western Avenue. Scarce public dollars for station construction should be applied where business and density are allowed – in the Miracle Mile, at LaBrea and/or at Fairfax. (In addition, if Metro were to build a station at Bronson-Lorraine [Crenshaw], and that enormous public investment subsequently caused changed land uses and intensified development at that location, the result would be new competition challenging Wilshire Center and Miracle Mile – the very areas that transit-oriented development is designed to enhance.)

Q - What is important to you in evaluating these alternatives? A – Engineering and land use decision-making, not political decision-making. The reason our neighborhoods have formed HPOZs, the reason we are organized at all, is because we struggle every day to maintain our quality of life in the middle of an increasingly-urban Los Angeles, where we choose to make our homes in historic buildings located on children-friendly streets, enjoying a wonderfully diverse population as our neighbors. Therefore, in the view of the WHA Executive Committee, the most important factor to consider in evaluating Westside Extension alternatives is the impact that Metro’s decisions will have on the communities you are serving. Expensive transit stations belong where there is sufficient density to justify those stations. At Bronson-Lorraine (Crenshaw) and Wilshire, there is neither sufficient density nor present potential for a sufficiently-large local population to justify a transit station.

In summary, the WHA Executive Committee believes that Los Angeles’ transit needs will be best served by fast implementation of transit solutions that can, if needed, adapt quickly to better serve more riders. The most adaptable transit system is the only one that is not tied to a specific route, i.e. buses. We feel that what Los Angeles needs is simply more clean technology buses, like the CNG ones that you at Metro -- our own “America’s Best” transit provider -- already utilize. We also need buses that run on weekends. We also need a spider-web of bus and rail routes, throughout the City and County. And we need more dedicated bus lanes and rush hour bus lanes where appropriate. We thank you for studying how these things we need can come to pass.

Sincerely,

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John M. Gresham, Secretary Wilshire Homeowners’ Alliance Executive Committee

cc: Honorable Tom LaBonge Honorable Herb Wesson City Planning Director Gail S. Goldberg

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: Gresham organization: Board Member Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council, Board Member Wilshire Park Association address: 696 South Bronson Avenur city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90005-3601 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 04:57 PM -0800

comment:

This communication contains my personal comments.

I support only the more flexible, more quickly implemented rapid bus solution; i.e. more buses, more bus routes, more buses on the weekends, and dedicated-lane and/or rush-hour dedicated-lane bus service.

Buses should run along Wilshire through the low-density Park Mile Specific Plan Area in dedicated-lanes, connecting with dedicated-lane rapid bus transit service running north and south on Western, Crenshaw, La Brea and Fairfax, thereby allowing the Park Mile Specific Plan Area to maintain its low-density character, while helping resolve transit issues in the City with a quick, cost-effective and reasonable solution.

Rail would take longer to plan and implement, and would be a much more expensive and an exceedingly high-impact alternative on adjacent neighborhoods. Therefore, I recommend No Build on any rail alternative.

Even though the Mayor and the Metro (fka MTA) have recently lobbied heavily for a subway, it is not necessarily the best or only solution. I am personally against a subway because I believe Metro will not be able to drill underground with no impact on the surrounding neighborhoods as they have repeatedly promised. I believe, in fact, that such construction will take up where it left off in the 1990s and all adjacent properties and neighborhoods will suffer damage, and this at great expense in time and money. The quality of life that we fight so hard for living in the middle of Los Angeles, will go straight down the tubes.

I do not trust the politically charged promises of Metro or the advice of its former oil experienced, deep-earth-substructure engineering staff who seemed to know little about the impacts of drilling in near-surface-substructures, especially based on their last performance in the 90s. They found water, methane and hydrogen sulfide gases, clay formations and unexpected subsidence and earth movement. Why should we expect different results this time. LA’s oil sand is not the place to drill a subway tube.

The last time the MTA attempted to ram the subway project through, MTA staff were desperately trying not to lose federal money. After repeated engineering and construction mistakes on Wilshire and Sunset hobbled progress and damaged the projects financially and politically, the MTA continued to compound each error with an ill-conceived political “patchwork of fixes” meant to overcome all obstacles and maintain momentum at all cost. Unfortunately, this drive was consistently pushed at the public’s expense, the public input they received falling on deaf ears.

If it had been constructed, the patched-together 1990’s version of the heavy rail extension would have destroyed neighborhoods and the very traffic flow it was meant to ease. I believe that history has taught us one lesson over and over: that once such a project receives the hint of federal monies, it takes on a life of its own, and the agenda of politicians and staff and contactors is to gloss-over and brush aside any potential problems along with any vestige of the public good, in order to push their project through and get the money, and the glory.

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I recommend No Build on any rail alternative.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Edward lastName: Lewinson organization: address: 8141 Wilkinson Ave. city: North Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 91605 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 04:10 PM -0800

comment:

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to support the development of the Westside Extension using Heavy Rail Trains. I support the line following a Wilshire Blvd. corridor as shown in the "Westside Extension Study Potential Alignments & Stations" map (see footnote #1). I do not believe that a Santa Monica Blvd. alignment has the same potential as a Wilshire Blvd. alignment. While Santa Monica Blvd. has a sizable retail presence, it lacks the current and potential residential and business densities of Wilshire Blvd. Wilshire Blvd also presents a strong potential for retail development, far eclipsing what Santa Monica Blvd. has to offer.

Secondly; in Santa Monica, I would also like to see the study address the possibility of having the line curve at The Third Street Promenade from Wilshire Blvd. to a terminal station at Third and Santa Monica Blvd.. Also studying the possibility of a transfer tunnel or some other connection to the Expo Line Phase 2 terminal. This might better serve the very busy Third Street Promenade and surrounding Downtown Santa Monica, and help strengthen the community of Santa Monica. Preferably, it should be not constructed in a way that would prevent the building of high rises near or above the line in downtown Santa Monica.

Sincerely, Edward Lewinson

Footnotes:

1: http://metro.net/projects_programs/westside/Potential%20Alignment%20Map%20(PDF).pdf

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Travis lastName: Broussard organization: West Hollywood Resident address: 705 Westmount, #304 city: West Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90069 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 02:58 PM -0800

comment:

To whom it may concern:

I write this letter as a resident of West Hollywood, a transit dependent, and a recent graduate with my Masters of Public Policy. I believe that I have a unique perspective on the issue of public transportation expansion on the west side because I rely on public transportation every day specifically on the west side. I also understand the components of policy making and their implications for effective execution of policy.

To begin, I love West Hollywood. I love the pedestrian friendly streets with wide sidewalks shaded by lush trees. I love the mix of commercial and residential space so that I can walk from my home to the gym, the grocery store, the park, and the nightlife. I love seeing my neighbors on the street and in the coffee shop. To me, West Hollywood has it all. Almost.

All of the elements I love about West Hollywood are hallmark features of the New Urbanist idea that brings communities closer together to increase civic spirit, ease traffic congestion, and lessen our impact on the environment. One component of New Urbanism that we lack is sufficient public transportation highly accessible and consistently reliable. While we are fortunate to be served by Metro #4 and Rapid 704, neither of these lines fulfill the requirements for the ideal public transportation desired for New Urbanist villages like West Hollywood.

Accessibility Accessibility of these lines in terms of available stops, in my opinion, is pretty good. There are frequent stops for the #4, and the stops for the Rapid line are located at high traffic intersections with myriad commercial and recreational destinations. Accessibility in terms of actually boarding buses, however, is hampered for several reasons.

Boarding is often slow and laborious because of the sheer number of riders trying to board. For those who do not ride the bus enough to justify a bus pass, they must pay to ride by using machines that accept dollar bills and then insert a quarter to pay the $1.25 fare. In cases where the machines have difficulty accepting the dollar bills (which is often), the rate of boarding is slowed considerably, frustrating other passengers, the driver, and traffic behind the bus.

If the line to board the bus is too long, the bus often times fills to beyond its capacity. Not only is this uncomfortable for passengers, but sometimes the driver must simply wave away those standing in line to board, telling them that another bus will there shortly. Under these circumstances, the accessibility of the buses is significantly undermined.

Reliability The reliability of these lines is questionable at best. Because the buses travel on the same grade and in the same lanes as private vehicles, their reliability is a function of the traffic in which they drive. And traffic along Santa Monica Boulevard through West

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Hollywood is unpredictable and sometimes insurmountable. Often times two Rapid Buses will travel end to end like a train while the next Rapid Bus falls far behind and off schedule.

Under these conditions, passengers are unsure when their bus will come to pick them up, and, even worse, passengers have no idea when they will reach their final destination. I believe that the uncertainty of travel time is a huge deterrent to those who may consider using public transportation. They would rather use their own vehicle so that they can choose their departure time and control their navigation through traffic to reach their destination on time.

Implications Without sufficient reliability and accessibility, people who have the choice between driving their car and taking public transportation will NEVER choose public transportation. The uncertainty is too high of a cost, and I do not believe that surface buses will ever be able to overcome these obstacles because of the city’s oppressive traffic patterns. I believe that these unmet conditions imply a solution that utilizes a system unburdened by existing traffic.

The two obvious solutions that satisfy this scenario are an above ground light rail or a subway line. The analysis required to determine the most cost-effective solution is outside the scope of this letter, and I know that you will undertake that challenge over the coming year. Common sense tells me, however, that given the projected increase in population over the next several decades, Los Angeles will need as much surface roadway as possible, and installing a light rail down Santa Monica Boulevard will severely constrain our ability to mitigate traffic problems in the future unless it is simply one component of a long-term solution that includes subterranean public transportation.

Stigma and Perceptions In addition to studying the political, economic, and geographic conditions that influence the ultimate policy decision, I hope that you will also consider the sociological conditions that hinder progressive public transportation policy. I believe that there is an unfortunate social stigma against public transportation and a perception that public transportation is second class transportation. While we all know that public transportation is predominantly utilized by an indigent population that can not afford private transportation, the prevailing negative perception of public transportation is exacerbated by the issues of accessibility and reliability that I have already discussed. I believe that a major challenge of this initiative should be to find ways to change the public’s perception of public transportation.

One way to alter this perception is to alter the reality. In reality, public transportation should be easily accessible and consistently reliable. I have argued above that trains are the way to make this possible. Once people are assured that these conditions are met, I believe that they will be more likely to leave their cars at home and rely on public transportation

Fortunately, we also live in the creative capital of the world where perceptions are manufactured everyday. I think that the expansion of public transportation on the Westside should be accompanied by a strategy to involve the creative community to change the negative perception of public transit. This strategy could involve infusing the media with characters who utilize public transportation, orchestrating targeted public relations, or organizing a grass roots campaign to increase ridership.

I hope that this letter gives you an idea of the kinds of changes we are looking for in West Hollywood as we pursue a new level of service from our public transportation.

Travis Broussard

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Ken lastName: Weinberg organization: address: 358 N. Detroit St. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90036 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 01:48 PM -0800

comment:

I am all for the extensions proposed. I would like to make two suggestions:

1. In order to "sell" this, and rebut the critics who feel it is too costly, and will subsidize too few at great expense, the studies should also include the cost savings of reduced time sitting in traffic for those who do not take transit, both in terms of time, gas, wear and tear on the car, the environment, etc.

2. There are areas where an above ground (elevated) alightment may be feasable and less costly. Specifically on Wilshire between La Brea and Fairfax (and perhaps beyond). It is mostly commercal near the tracks, and an elevated line could be designed to fit in with the Wilshire Blvd median. A similar idea may work in the vicinity of the VA complex in WLA.

Keep up the good work Ken Weinberg

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: m.j. karmi [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, November 01, 2007 2:30 PMTo: [email protected]: Metro Expansion

Hello, Although I favor metro extension I have serious concerns regarding where that extension takes place. As a home owner, I am very concerned that future metro construction under the houses in our nieghborhood poses a serious threat to our homes, many of which were built in the early 1900's (including mine). Thanks very much. M.J. Karmi 1619 N Curson Ave Los Angeles, CA 9046 323.876.1619

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Steven lastName: Lake organization: address: city: Venice state: CA zipcode: 90291 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 01:26 PM -0800

comment:

Build the purple subway line to SM. Build the expo LR line to SM on the ROW and an etension to the expo line running down Venice to the Beach. These should be built, and soon. I know too many people willing to take mass transit but can't because the current rail system doesn't address the westside residents who travel east and north to ars like dontown and hollywood.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Matthew lastName: McKelligon organization: Tomas Osinski Design address: 715 South Normandie Ave., Apt. #518 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90005 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 01:03 PM -0800

comment:

I think it's quite obvious that a subway is necessary. Any money spent on anything less will just be a waste, as we'll build a subway anyway. Angelenos are interested in speed and ease, which separated grades of transport and heavy rail both provide for. We already have bus rapid transit in place and it's still not enough. The buses pile up in traffic and are simply unreliable and do not fit enough people in them for their frequency (or lack thereof). Public transit needs to rival the automobile in order for Angelenos to make the jump. It's obvious that you're trying to target car owners with your latest campaigns to the Westside (Expo Line, Purple Line extension hub-ub, etc.), so you need to work on our schedules (stay open later and have trains run more frequently) and travel quickly (heavy rail). Thank you!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Bret lastName: Thomlin organization: address: Avenue of the Stars city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90067 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 12:58 PM -0800

comment:

- Raised monorail, dual rail trains magnetically powered and modeled after Disney's. After all, that one has only been around 20-30 years. Very green, very inexpensive and can be very 'eye-pleasing/futuristic, a selling point for LA.

- Real bike paths (Class I) that travel from Union Station to Century City. (The caution included as part of the definition of a Class 3 Bike Path, which parts of Olympic are currently designated, makes a lawsuit against the city almost inevitable)

- Not just bus lanes, but all lanes carpool ONLY for Pico and Olympic single direction change.

- Lights that allow lanes directions to be changed based on dynamic rush hour needs. By the way, Pittsburgh, PA and Fairfax, VA are 2 cities amongst many that already do this effectively.

- How about strict enforcement of "No Stopping" anti-gridlock zones. This would include enforcement for Metro buses that blatantly ignoring rush hour restrictions for anti-gridlock bus layover zones on westbound Olympic, and commercial deliveries including the lane closure marked with cones that occur during rush hour anti-gridlock restriction times identified by the Ordinance.

- How about less analysis, less study, less recommendations, less initiatives, less processes and more solution-based action. Where is all the money going?

- How about each of the Metro Board of Directors be mandated to use public transportation from Union City to Century City at both morning and evening rush hours until the problem is solved (by the way, this is the ONLY recommendation that is GUARANTEED towork).

Sarcasm added to emphsize the growing frustration of having a morning commute that is less than 12 miles average over 62 one way each day for the past 2 months.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Sherie lastName: Forrest organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90048 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 11:37 AM -0800

comment:

Compared to the sore need along Santa Monica Blvd., I think Wilshire is already being served adequately for its potential transit population. I think Wilshire's middle and upper class workers aren't as progressive, i.e. likely to use public transportation for the sake of the environment. Given the character of the neighborhoods a Santa Monica underground would go through, I feel more confident that ALL socio-economic levels will be enthusiastic about using it, all hours of the day, making it a boon to traffic and pollutioni issues that will serve as a national model to encourage more development money for like projects.

Plus, given the boulevard's more central location in the job and entertainment hub, it will make the basin more transit-friendly, more able to network efficiently with other lines, particularly north/south lines, encouraging more use in the entire area.

I also want to express that all stops should not automatically be open to unlimited expansion for development, that the diverse character of the city should be respected and maintained. The purpose of the transit system is to improve the quality of city life, to allow the city to curtail its current traffic and pollution problems, not to create more problems by unleashing uncontrolled growth potential at every stop. (I get the feeling all politicians are working for businesses, instead of for their constituencies and the public trust!) In other cities, outlying stops encourage residents to use the lines to commute to work, not to move away in horror because the area's now turning into a noisy commercial district. (Causing their long commutes to then exacerbate traffic and pollution.)

Thanks for this opportunity to express some of our concerns. I wish somehow citizens who take public transportation to work, for their errands, etc., could get tax incentives for their efforts, to encourage less people to drive everywhee.

Sincerely, Sherie Forrest

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Anthony lastName: Kaan organization: address: 1850 Whitley Ave, #1110 city: Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90028 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 11:36 AM -0800

comment:

We desperately need a new transit alternative to serve the Westside, because traffic is making life in our city unlivable.

I want both the Wilshire extension AND the Hollywood Boulevard extension (down Santa Monica Blvd) studied, because these are the two most heavily used transit routes in our city.

I need to be able to travel between Century City and Hollywood & Vine.

The most important problem we need to solve is creating access to the places where people go most frequently - creating a subway system that actually GOES SOMEWHERE.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Anthony lastName: Kaan organization: address: 1850 Whitley Ave, #1110 city: Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90028 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 11:34 AM -0800

comment:

Should there be a new transit alternative to serve the Westside? YES, because traffic is making life in our city unlivable.

•What mode or alignment do you want studied? I want both the Wilshire extension AND the Hollywood Boulevard extension (down Santa Monica Blvd) studied, because these are the two most heavily used transit routes in our city.

•Do you want a station in your community? YES, because I need to be able to travel between Century City and Hollywood & Vine.

•What is important to you in evaluating options? Access to the places where I go most frequently. A subway system that actually GOES SOMEWHERE.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Stephanie lastName: Chan organization: UCLA Undergraduate Student Government- Office of the External Vice President address: 310 De Neve Dr. Rieber 784 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 11:04 AM -0800

comment:

To whom this may concern,

Representing the more than 25,000 undergraduate students of UCLA, the Office of the External Vice President thoroughly supports the Metro's expansion into the Westside, and specifically, to UCLA.

We support the underground heavy-rail subway with a stop at UCLA. This option provides not only a sound means of travel for UCLA students logistically, but also economically and experientially.

The heavy population-density of UCLA and Westwood demands an efficient means of public transportation. Parking is severely limited and traffic congestion is constant; students need an easier and faster option to get around Los Angeles.

The subway is also an economically sound option for students. With soaring gas prices and large parking fees, students will be sure to take advantage of the subway system to travel around Los Angeles. Students are constantly looking for the more economical option and the more efficient option -- this option is the subway.

The subway expansion to UCLA would provide students with an efficient means of a Los Angeles cultural experience. One common and meaningful complaint of students is their inability to experience the many different areas of Los Angeles because of the lack of efficient public transportation. Los Angeles has so much to offer culturally and artistically, but university students, with so much passion for cultural stimulation, are precluded from these experiences. The subway would provide a necessary link between students and Los Angeles' innumerable offerings.

The Metro's expansion into the Westside, and to UCLA, would beneficially impact UCLA students for generations to come.

Thank you for your time.

Stephanie Chan Director, Local Affairs Office of the External Vice President Undergraduate Students Association Council

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Thursday, November 01, 2007 11:48 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Sheryl lastName: McCallister organization: Transit rider address: 4849 W. 120th St., #8 city: Hawthorne state: CA zipcode: 90250 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 10:48 AM -0800

comment:

Re: Westside Extension Transit Corridor

In response to the issues posed at the Westside Extension scoping meetings held in early October, I am submitting my extended comments in writing.

I will structure my comments by addressing the “What we want to hear from you” slide of the information packet.

PART I: The question “Should there be a new transit alternative to serve the Westside?” is absolutely insulting to anyone who lives, works, or tries to commute thru the Westside.

It’s not an issue of “should” there be—it’s a question of how fast it can be built. The area identified as the Westside Extension Corridor has needed multiple alternatives to road based traffic since before I moved to Los Angeles 15 years ago. That the Red Line stub now called the Purple Line was not finished when it was started is the biggest mistake in the history of the City of Los Angeles, LA County and LA County Metropolitan Transit Authority. It will now cost multiple billions of dollars to complete some version of the “subway to the sea”, rather than the slightly more than 1 billion it would have cost had the project simply continued. Metro has invested several hundred million dollars studying, planning, implementing and now maintaining a Rapid Bus system that is held hostage on a minute to minute basis by road based traffic conditions. That is NOT a solution to gridlock—it contributes to it! None of the Rapid lines is any more reliable than the existing local service—which is to say, it’s late more than 40% of the time. Rapid may be slightly faster than local service, but it’s nothing like timely, no matter what the Metro propaganda take-ones say.

PART II: The issue of which mode or alignment should be studied has to be limited to modes that do NOT in any way, shape, or form rely or utilize in any way existing roads or bus routes. Here’s my considered evaluation of the alternatives presented at the scoping meeting:

Rapid Bus has already been deployed on multiple corridors in the Westside Extension Corridor, and has only “achieved” what I as a daily commuter/rider can possibly describe as a minimal improvement in elapsed time. This solitary minimal plus has to be measured against a long list of minuses. To be specific:

• Rapids are (given their free-running schedules) almost entirely unpredictable as to their arrival/departure times, whether there’s a published schedule for a line or not. Rapids, in my observation, get bunched more often than locals. The more Rapids that run on a street, the more bunched they get. Rapids on the 720 line often bunch in groups as high as 6 and 7; and just this morning, I saw three 920’s running under a block apart. Bus bunching appears to be an utterly insoluble problem for Metro. Continuing to add more buses to simply to bunch them up is a waste of both capital dollars to buy said bunching buses, AND of operating dollars.

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• Rapids have no potential to alleviate traffic/road based disasters like the virtual shutdown of the 405 yesterday (Oct 30, 2007) by a traffic accident, because Rapids are trapped on the same roads as people in local buses and people in personal cars. Again, they contribute to the problem, they don’t solve it.

• The push for “bigger, bigger, bigger” buses on Rapid lines leads to far higher maintenance costs for their much vaunted articulated buses—not to mention that some sources I have read indicate that articulated buses will require more frequent replacement than other types of bus. Metro’s focus on these buses is misguided and spendthrift, unless an alternative that will move MORE people that these articulators can be brought online by the time they begin to wear out in 5-7 years time.

• Being subject to traffic makes Rapid buses likely to be involved in accidents with members of the general public, exposing Metro to lawsuits and legal costs when people are injured or killed. These kinds of dollars must be considered alongside fuel and labor when considering the operating cost-effectiveness of the various ‘modes’.

• Rapid buses—even articulators—are theoretically limited to less than 90 passengers per vehicle. During the busiest ‘rush’ hours, this is clearly an inadequate load, since I see people packed onto these buses so tightly people can’t even reach a handhold. While Metro may consider it safe to have riders standing in the aisles, the truth is that it is highly unsafe for a person to be standing in any moving vehicle; standing in a moving vehicle which is trying to maneuver through Los Angeles’ stop and go traffic is an open invitation to serious injury.

Bus Rapid Transit is no better than Rapid Bus. The only differences appear to be: • A “dedicated busway”. This is of limited use, however, when the line is AT GRADE, and subject to cross traffic. All it takes to put the entire line out of service for the whole of rush hour is a single idiot driver—as has been proven at least half a dozen times in the year the Orange Line has been in service. A “busway” is nothing but an expensive boondoogle that has to be repaved every year to get rid of potholes.

• Longer articulator allows for 100 passengers; but given the overcrowding/standing behavior that occurs on every bus and rail line during rush hour, that’s just more people standing up to be seriously injured. Whatever happened to Safety First?

• The idea that BRT can be ‘converted’ to rail at some future point is an object lesson in being penny wise and pound foolish. ‘‘Busway’ improvements, such as the roadbed, etc. will have to be completely torn out in order to ‘convert’ a BRT line to rail. Conversion will take several years, during which the entire line would be out of service. Every bit of gain in ridership that a BRT line might make will be undone by such a conversion.

• An analogy if you will: A Westside BRT would be to Metro what Disney’s California Adventure is to The Walt Disney Company—a major investment/project with potentially huge profits, done on the cheap, and which has consequently failed miserably to meet any of its goals; and which has to be redone at triple the cost of having done it right the first time—and at a cost of enormous ill-will on the part of the patrons, which has cost the millions, perhaps billions of dollars. DON’T MAKE MICHAEL EISNER’S MISTAKE all over the Westside!

This means the ONLY acceptable alternative as some form of grade separated—meaning subterranean--rail, particularly since Metro is already heavily invested in tunneling technology for the Gold Line. Here’s why it has to be rail:

• Rail is RELIABLE. I’ve commuted via Metro to jobs in Long Beach, downtown Los Angeles, and on the Miracle Mile over the last 10 years. When I was commuting to Long Beach via the Green Line/Blue Line, I was late perhaps 3 times a year due to a transit problem—usually a suicide by train. Even in the worst El Niño storms, I was able to be on time to my job on Pine/Ocean in Long Beach. If I had to be at my job in the Wilshire District at any particular time, I’d have been fired the first week—because riding Metro buses (particularly the 20) means that the best I can promise anyone is a 30 minute window when I expect to arrive at the office.

• Rail is FAST. Examples: • The Green Line will get me from Aviation Station to the 110 Freeway Bus Lanes in 10 minutes. To take the 120 bus requires between 25 and 30 minutes.

• To take the Purple Line from Wilshire/Western to 7th Metro is a 9 minute ride, no matter what time of day it is. To take the 720, it’s 20 minutes (I did it two weeks ago at 1 pm.) To take the 20, it’s 30 minutes or more.

• Rail is much greener than CNG buses, because electricity is much greener than CNG. And as solar, wind and other alternative power generation systems come on line, rail won’t require major changes to its wiring/power systems. Should a cleaner fuel system become the standard, Metro would have to replace all it’s buses—AGAIN.

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• Metro needs to keep in mind that tunneling on the Westside is a PERMANENT change to the geography of Los Angeles County, and I believe some level of forecasting about technologies 30, 50, or even 100 years out has to be taken into account. The London Underground still utilizes some tunnels that are more than 100 years old. There are Roman viaducts intact after 2000 years in Italy that still carry their daily drinking water There are NO other alternatives for Los Angeles transit with the potential to still be in use 100, 200 or more years from now, if they’re properly engineered and maintained.

• Given that the existing Red/Purple Lines are HRT systems, it would seem the height of stupidity to change to a Light Rail Transit configuration in the middle of those lines. Ditto changing from a subterranean line to an at-grade or elevated track, given the that costs are nearly the same. Considering the current residential density and projected in-fill growth on the Westside, a HRT subway appears to be the only workable alternative to me.

• That position would additionally be supported by the enormous increase in job density on the Westside that Metro’s presentation posits. The information presented on LRT indicates that a 3 car, 500 passenger/train configuration is the maximum load of light rail. A heavy rail configuration doubles that capacity. If the job density projections are even close to accurate, light rail would have a very difficult job meeting that need, even at a 5 minute headway on the trains. Certainly there are times when this is true on the Blue Line already.

• It seems exceptionally foolish to cut the possible passenger load by half at the outset. HRT infrastructure appears from my reading to have the greatest flexibility for future innovation, because it creates a larger footprint underground.

• HRT has a 15 mph advantage in speed over an LRT configuration. Should a “limited stops” configuration on the line be desired in the future, 15 mph is significant.

• In terms of station size, a 270 foot station length would leave very little room in subterranean stations for any kind of income-producing partnerships. The larger 450 foot stations could well partner with business to include station level retail, pay public restrooms, wi-fi stations, etc. The existing Wilshire/Western underground space could very easily hold all of these today.

• Additionally, a 450 foot station could facilitate multiple entrance/exit strategies at stations, after the manner of the 7th Metro Station, where one can exit on Figueroa or Flower. Multiple entrances/exits would also present much more effective emergency exit plans or use of Metro stations as emergency shelters in case of disasters or terrorist attacks.

After all the reading I’ve done and serious consideration, it’s my belief that HRT is the only truly workable—and permanent--solution for transit in the Westside Corridor.

Part III: Where should stations be? Where the most people are going to use them, obviously.

It’s clear from the materials presented at the meeting that a single alternative line is going to be inadequate from the start. Even if the ‘subway to the sea’ had been finished way back when, we would have to be looking at requiring additional transit corridors at this point. Wilshire is simply too far south of the hills for too much of the LA city basin. An additional alignment down Santa Monica Blvd is required to cover the ‘hills’ area, particularly given the touristy nature of the Hollywood area.

Here are the stations I would propose for these two lines.

PURPLE LINE/primarily Wilshire Alignment extending from current Wilshire/Western station:

Wilshire/Crenshaw is required to service the very busy 210 local line, and should become the termination point for the 710 when this subway comes online. The Wilshire/Western corner had trouble enough BEFORE adding this additional line to that mess.

Wilshire/La Brea—existing Metro Customer Service Center would be a good location.

The Grove/Farmer’s Market/CBS/Pan Pacific Park—there should be a full on TRANSIT CENTER above the station at street level, with pull in/layover areas, a taxi stand, and a Park La Brea/Pan Pacific Park shuttle service that very senior-living intensive area between Wilshire and Beverly. Should be located somewhere in current parking area near restaurants. Perhaps the developer would be willing to work with Metro in developing/expanding his existing parking structures to include “paying” park and ride customers—it would be a perfect example of how TAP could be integrated with a commercial concern.

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• Even if more people don’t visit The Grove than go to Disneyland, there are many, many more people walking around and moving in and out of the streets between La Brea and Fairfax on 3rd Street than there are on Wilshire between La Brea and Fairfax outside of actual “rush” hours, partly due to the large Orthodox community that exists in the Fairfax District. Given this, and the location of Cedars Sinai between 3rd and Beverly, it’s necessary for the line to move northwards slightly thru the Miracle Mile area.

• An additional DASH line should be negotiated to do a clockwise/ counterclockwise loop of the area. A simple quadilateral loop that runs via 3rd Street on the north, La Brea on the east, Wilshire Blvd on the south, and San Vicente/La Cienega on the west, back up to 3rd Street, at the corner near Loehmans and the Beverly center. Perhaps a modification of the Fairfax DASH?

Beverly Center/Cedar Sinai—should be located directly under San Vicente, with an exit on one side of station at the hospital—perhaps Cedars would be willing to partner a basement level entrance directly into the hospital—and one side directly into shopping level connected elevators at the Beverly Center. There is no point in doing ANYTHING in the study area if it doesn’t connect directly to this major employer and health care center facility.

• Another site where perhaps the mall owner/developer would be willing to work to upgrade/increase/reconfigure parking to provide monthly “pay” park and ride areas with direct elevator access to train platform for Metro patons.

Wilshire/La Cienega—necessary return to Wilshire alignment; connects to 705/105 collecting workers from South LA to move them to jobs in Beverly Hills. This is a CRITICAL stop location.

Wilshire/Doheny—Beverly Hills work force requirement

Wilshire/Santa Monica—termination for Santa Monica spur alignment

Ave of the Stars/Constellation—the Century City stop needs to be in the MIDDLE of Century City, not out along the Santa Monica edge. Two Century City DASH type shuttles should be put in place—one east-west to cover Olympic-Constellation-Santa Monica, fashion and one north-south to cover Ave/Stars and the east and west Parkways. Both shuttles should stop at the shopping center/parking lot. Again, work with owner on “pay” park and ride areas and upgrades to parking.

Wishire/Manning—it’s clear that a stop somewhere in Westwood is needed before the UCLA campus, but there’s already far too much “Wilshire/Westwood” transit traffic jamming that intersection, what with all the Santa Monica buses, the Culver City 6, and the 20/720 traffic. Manning would provide walking access to apartments, and is on a more direct line of access to UCLA Medical Center.

UCLA—needs a minimum of 2 stops. One stop needs to be at the county hospital/medical complex. There’s no point whatsoever in putting any kind of rail line within 2 miles of UCLA that doesn’t go to that hospital. The current UCLA Transit Center on Hilgard should be relocated to this hospital rail line stop, and layover facilities for all agencies that serve it should be included in the station facilities. Metro should work with the university to determine where else on the campus the University feels a stop or stops would be most helpful. Given the sheer number of jobs at UCLA, it may be necessary to violate the 1 mile stop rule to locate multiple stops within the campus—for example one at the hospital, one at the Ackerman Union in the center of campus, and one in the northwest bubble of the campus, in or near student housing.

Veteran’s Administration—The VA is a very big property, and as more and more former soldiers age, access to it is going to be more and more important. The size of the property may justify also 2 stops, one on the far north side of the property near Patton/MacArthur, and one at the southern corner at Wilshire/Federal.

Wilshire /Bundy—while Santa Monica IS the main street of the City of Santa Monica, and it seems logical to service it, Wilshire actually provides more access to apartments and condos; Santa Monica is only two short blocks south. Bundy is a major intersecton in Santa Monica, with a Big Blue Bus service of its own.

Wilshire/20th—this stop would provide, hospital staff and patients 1 block walking access to St Johns Medical Center.

Wilshire/3rd Street Promenade—A stop that exits to Santa Monica Place on one side, with a view to the pier, and exits into the Promenade on the other side would be ideal. Work with City of Santa Monica re: parking. Perhaps there’s an opportunity to improve all their 2nd and 4th street parking structures in return for “pay” park and ride space for Metro.

SANTA MONICA SPUR, starting at Hollywood/Highland Red Line Station

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Santa Monica/La Brea—drops down and avoids historic houses along Sunset. Work with DASH to route to this station from Sunset.

Santa Monica/Fairfax-major N/S arterial north of Olympic, with connections to 4/704 and 217/780.

Santa Monica/La Cienega—major residential area, with local 4 and 105 providing walking distance access to most of these

Santa Monica/San Vicente—is the Division 7 yard. With proper engineering and design, it should be possible to redesign Division 7 so that multi-level new division that services both the existing bus load AND has a subterranean ‘train yard’. A stop here could not only allow patrons to access ANY of the buses that depart from the Division, but would service the library and the Pacific Design Center.

Santa Monica/Beverly-Rodeo—Beverly is shown on the current proposed map as a stop for both rail lines. It would make more sense to put a stop at Doheny on one side of Beverly Hills, and a stop at Beverly or Rodeo on the other, and then run a Dash type bus between them, using Burton as the east-west corridor.

Santa Monica/Wilshire—termination of spur, trains switch tracks and continue on to the beach. • This kind of configuration would provide “5 minute access” on the Santa Monica to the beach end of the Purple Line (INCLUDING UCLA) the same way the Red/Purple line timings provide 5 minute access between Vermont/Wilshire and Union Station. That’s a big win..

Park IV: What is important in evaluating all the options is NOT worrying about money first. Money can be raised in a variety of ways. What is most critical is to PLAN FOR THE WORST POSSIBLE FUTURE. I realize that’s heresy in today’s political climate, because planning for 25 or 30, or 50 years down the road isn’t going to get that smiley Los Angeles mayor or yours any votes for governor in 4 years, or any votes for President in 10 years. BUT:

• We got into this mess partly because back in the 60’s, Metro’s predecessor agency tore up all the trolley lines.

• We got into this mess partly because when it became clear in the 1960’s that LA was going to become a megalopolis, not just a metropolitan area with a lot of small, close by cities, nobody planned anything but freeways.

• We got into this mess mainly because nobody paid any attention to the 1973 gas crisis, and everyone in the State just presumed that spike in costs was a one off. It wasn’t; it was a warning that we failed to heed.

We CANNOT continue to plan for the 1960’s California Dream as we’ve been doing. We have to join the hard, practical cities of the East Coast, and while we hope for the best—WE MUST PLAN FOR THE WORST. Nobody in LA Country government—much less Metro—has planned for the worst since I’ve lived here. Especially not when it comes to traffic and gridlock. We’re already at least 10 years behind the reality of what’s been happening on the Westside, and I don’t know that it’s possible to catch up, much less fix it, in my lifetime, even if we build out both these alignments. We’re just too far behind the growth curve.

And that’s not even mentioning the extreme things that need to be considered in regards to things like terrorist attacks—the tunnels and stations should be able to be used as emergency shelters, like the London Underground was during the Blitz, or like Qualcomm Stadium was used last week in San Diego. What about earthquakes, or the next big El Niño season and flooding? There are no civil defense shelters anymore that I know of. As a government agency, Metro should be considering how to help fill those gaps. How about something as simple as power outages? How is Metro going to generate enough power to run the trains, even if there’s no power available from the grid? As Metro moves forward in planning for sub-surface transit, all these emergency applications need to be carefully accounted for.

PART V: OTHER THOUGHTS:

FUNDING ALL THIS STUFF

This is very likely going to cost somewhere in the range of 20 billion dollars when it’s all said and done, and it’s cheap at half the price. It’s very clear that no matter what Calfornia voters VOTE for, the state government is NOT going to allocate dollars back to Los Angeles county to get any sort of major public transit built and deployed. Relying on that kind of funding is counter-productive any way in may situations. It’s far better if Los Angeles County institutes its own funding plans. Here are some things to consider:

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FIRST: Start taxing people by the miles they drive, just like taxi’s charge for driving people around!

If a private company like OnStar can have your car on their active system all the time, then it has to be possible to create state/DMV system. Here are the elements that I think are needed to make this idea work.

 Cellphone-similar SIM cards that are wired/attached to every cars ignition and odometer. Any time you turn on your car and start moving, the SIM card would make a call to a state contracted, third party billing agency.

 That company’s database would notate the time, duration and odometeric DISTANCE of your drive. This would generate a monthly log, like a cell phone bill, that shows what time, for how long and how far a car was driven. I believe very similar technology is already available.

 Mileage would then be ‘taxed’ based on the time of day you drove (to account to the feds for congestion pricing), the distance you drove. For example:

 A Base rate of 10 cents per mile—  A congestion pricing multiplier of 3 (so that miles driven between 7 am and 9 am cost 20 cents per mile)

 An additional “carbon tax” multiplier depending on how good or bad the gas mileage is for your vehicle. Gas guzzling SUV’s might have a multiplier of an additional 1.5, raising the price of driving to 30 cents per mile for a morning trip to work in a high octane gas fueled Ford Expedition, while a Prius hybrid might get a multiplier of .40, and cost only 12 cents per mile during the same 7 am to 9 am period, while a fully electric car might have a multiplier of .15 and only pay 4 cents per mile. Every different model of car would have different multipliers depending on their proven fuel economy.

 A Prius hybrid driven the same distance at 7 pm-9pm would only pay 6 cents per mile, rather than 10 cents, because of the high fuel economy, while the low mileage Expedition would still be paying 15 cents per mile during that time frame.

 Drivers could access and choose to pay their mileage costs online at any time, but would not be allowed to renew their car registration or driver’s license unless their account were current.

 The money raised by this “pricing” should be allocated for 10% of the dollars going to freeway and roads maintenance, and 90% of the money going to the building of a rail network throughout the whole of LA County. The limited number of identified corridors Metro is currently considering are not even close to accurate.

 This model of taxing mileage will do more to get people out of low mileage, high emissions cars than any theoretical “carbon tax.” It would also boost car sales—because it won’t be long before the SUV people just find it to expensive to drive them. And it will almost immediately drive Metro ridership.

 Another very useful aspect of this plan is that the rates and multipliers are easy to adjust as technologies improve.

Existing networks like OnStar have the bones of what is needed.

 Another option is to pass separate local BONDS for each rail line. Put each one on the ballot and let the voters decide what they’re willing to pay for. If the people are prepared to pay for a Wilshire centered alignment, but NOT the Santa Monica spur, then that’s what gets built, until and unless the voters pass a bond for the spur.

 If Los Angeles County is willing to support bond issues for building schools, then LA County should behind the idea of supporting bond issues for critical infrastructure like these subways very, very easily. The train lines and tunnels will have a MUCH longer life span than any group of school buildings.

 These ideas are NOT mutually exclusive, nor are the bond issues. I see no reason why there shouldn’t be a half dozen rail lines being built at the same time.

THE BEACH While the east-west and northwest-southeast service the two alignments currently proposed for the Westside would go a long way in

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improving mobility in the study area, it’s clear that without NORTH-SOUTH RAIL ACCESS that improvement is going to be very limited. There is absolutely nothing in the study area that addresses the huge number of drivers currently clogging up the 405. After this week/s demonstration on October 30, 2007 of just how badly the rest of the Westside is gridlocked when the 405 is put out of service, I would think it would be critical to this study to also consider where north/south rail alignments to provide an alternative to the 405 should be located. While the Crenshaw/Prairie that’s currently under review might provide north south access for South LA communities, that corridor is much to far west of the 405 freeway and the beach communities to be remotely useful. I believe the Westside Extension Corridor group should spend at least some of it’s time determining whether a beach alignment near Lincoln/PCH would best serve north/south commuters into and out of the Westside, or if some other alignment would provide a more realistic and useful option.

Thank you for your time and attention to my comments on your plans for the corridor. I hope my comments are useful.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Frank Denis lastName: Hiebsch organization: address: 807 S Sycamore Ave city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90036 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 10:24 AM -0800

comment:

Should there be a new transit alternative to serve the Westside? YES. Because my daily commute takes too long. It takes me 15 to 20 minutes to get to work in the morning but 45 to 80 minutes in the afternoon to get back home. Being that much stuck in traffic in this city impacts my “quality of life”: I have to coordinate my errands, appointments, visits, cultural and leisure activities according to traffic conditions! I am frustrated about the traffic gridlock in this city. We need public transportation that is fast, reliable and clean.

What mode or alignment do you want studied? Mode: subway or elevated LRT only. Because we need public transportation that does not get stuck in traffic itself. I tried the Wilshire Rapid bus, but it is slow, not reliable because of traffic, and very uncomfortable to ride (bumps and constant acceleration and braking because of surface traffic and traffic signals).

Alignment: both alignments marked by a dotted blue line on your potential alignment map (extension of purple line from Western/Wilshire to Santa Monica and extension of red line from Hollywood/Highland to Santa Monica), with a priority on connecting Wilshire/Western to Century City. The extension of the purple line along major job centers really makes sense. I believe we need both blue dotted lines. Also, merging them in Beverly Hills will reduce cost per passenger.

I agree with station selection in your map, except that there should be no station at Santa Monica/Wilshire intersection and no station at Veteran’s Admin. Because ridership will depend on how much faster the subway is than taking a car; and less stations means faster ride – I assume there is no sufficient demand for stations at those two sites. And do not add any additional stations.

Do you want a station in your community? Yes. I want a station on Wilshire/La Brea and Century City, because I want to take the subway for my home-work commute and to the Music center in downtown LA.

What is important to you in evaluating options? How long it will take to get from point A to point B. If metro is able to get me reliably from Santa Monica to Wilshire/Western in 25 minutes, then I support the extensive financial undertaking for the project. A reliable subway that fast will enrich the life of thousands every day on their way to work; it will outweigh the costs.

Other thoughts? I appreciate your commitment to serve your communities. At this point, L.A. is poorly served with public transportation.

I recommend to better structure the study presentations. I found the estimated travel time on your projects only in FAQ, hidden under a non-meaningful header “operational issues” in point 27. If you seriously estimate that you can move people in 25 minutes from

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Santa Monica beach to either Wilshire/Western or Hollywood/Highland, then clearly make people aware of that when introducing the project in point 1! It is more important how much time you can save with a subway than, e.g., how a subway is powered (point 24).

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Angel lastName: Herrera organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 10:23 AM -0800

comment:

1. Do you agree that there should be a new transit alternative to serve the Westside? - Of course! I was just at the west Hollywood Halloween carnival yestersday, and the entire time we were stuck in traffic i kept thinking how convenient and amazing it would be to have a subway line that ran under Santa Monica. Not just becuase of this event, but because it is time Angelenos begin leaving their cars at home and begin riding together in an convenient and efficient public transportation system. This line under santa monica blvd, and wilsher must be built.

Cities like NYC, London, Tokyo, Berlin have transportation systems that are superb. Their subway, lightrail and streetcar maps are so full and complex. This, to me, almost works like a trophe or some sort, showing success in a modern world city. Something to point out is that (with the exception of Londons red double decker buses) all these successful cities are famous for their subways, and lightrails, not their buses. People hate buses, as sad as it is, they dont like to ride them for many reasons. This city needs to push away from buses and begin to implement systems that have better reputation and appeal.

LA has already begun this process, but it needs to happen faster. It would be great to look upon our public system and realize that we could go anywhere with it.

This new line must be built. It would further connect the two sides of LA and ease commuting.

2. Is there a particular mode or alignment you want us to study? To me, the most successful and honorable system would be a subway. NO BUSES! PLEASE!

3. Do you want a station in your community? N/A 4. What criteria are important to you for use to in evaluating these options? Areas with high employment(so people can easily commute), civic areas, proximity to residential areas, restaurants and bars, Tourist attractions.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: David lastName: Karwaski organization: UCLA Transportation address: 555 Westwood Plaza, Suite 102 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90095 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, November 01, 2007 Time: 07:36 AM -0800

comment:

The transit network in Los Angeles, specifically the rail system, does not provide system connectivity. The current rail lines spread outwards from downtown Los Angeles and do not connect to each other anywhere else. This is problematic because system connectivity has been shown to significantly impact mode choice and the quality and level of service of a transit system. Therefore it is desirable, even necessary to plan for rail line connections as the envisioned system gets built. UCLA urges that a criterion for the Alternative Analysis of the Westside Transit Corridor Study be established related to system connectivity, perhaps “advances system connectivity” or something similar.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 10:31 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Alex lastName: Schaffer organization: address: 1022 S. Shenandoah Street #1 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 900035 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 09:30 PM -0800

comment:

Dear Mr. Mieger,

I am writing to express my support for an extension of the Purple Line subway directly down Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica, with one deviation off Wilshire to Century City.

Based on the extremely heavy ridership of the bus lines down Wilshire, and the fact that much of Wilshire is lined with dense commercial and residential areas, this seems to me to be the route that would serve the greatest number of current Metro riders and do the most to attract new riders. The heavy ridership this route would carry will justify the higher costs of building a subway.

Since a busway or light rail line on the same route would be much less expensive to construct, I hope that your study will indicate the downsides to those alternatives (slower travel times and the problems caused by the loss of car traffic lanes on Wilshire).

Other possible alignments for new rapid transit in this corridor may also serve heavily traveled routes, but none of them seem to have the same combination of residential and commercial density that the Wilshire route has.

Thank you for taking the time to read my comments.

Alex Schaffer

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Peter lastName: Capone-Newton organization: address: 306 Museum Dr. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90065 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 08:17 PM -0800

comment:

Please study the following:

1. A connection with Expo phase II near the 10 and 405 freeway.

2. Station location in the middle of the UCLA campus. For example in front of the Ackerman Union.

3. A "cul-du-sac" alignment that splits at wilshire and santa monica and heads along wilshire to UCLA (mid campus location) then south toward the VA, then southeast toward the expo connection (mentioned above), and then returns eastward back to century city before connecting back to the origin of the cul-du-sac at wilshire and santa monica blvds.

Thanks! Peter

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Stephen lastName: Reis organization: address: 733 N. Poinsettia Place city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 07:02 PM -0800

comment:

I live in Hollywood and commute to Santa Monica...PLEASE start working on the Red Line extension!!

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Drew Reed [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 7:03 PMTo: [email protected]: Please build the Purple Line!

Esteemed members of the Metro board, We, the citizens of Los Angeles County, need for there to be a subway underneath Wilshire Boulevard, from Western Avenue to the Pacific coast. We do not need light rail, or bus lanes, or bus "rapid" transit. In fact, to build anything other than a completely grade-separated, heavy rail subway would be a grave error. This is the most important project for transportation in Los Angeles, more important than the existing Red Line to Hollywood. Succeed and you will provide the foundation for an effective transit system in this city. Fail and you will have wasted time and energy on a project that would only serve to reinforce negative LA stereotypes. While I would like the subway to be built as soon as possible, i would much rather wait longer for a proper subway than rush to implement any stopgap solution. For reasons of capacity, safety, maintenance, and overall appearance, other alternatives (including monorail) will not work. As far as the alignment is concerned, the Wilshire segment on the map you have created is adequate. It is important that the line serve Century City via Santa Monica Blvd. One possible alternative would be to follow Santa Monica Blvd. west from century City to Westwood Blvd. and then turn north to Wilshire and Westwood, following Wilshire west from there to the ocean. This could boost ridership and alignment utility while suffering little time penalty, however it could easily be abandoned if its cost became prohibitive. One other problem to be rectified is the gap in Santa Monica between the future termini of the Purple and Expo lines. Although the current proposal would definitely be functional, a connection between the two lines' termini either by rail or underground walkway would certainly be beneficial. I'm sure that this would be expensive and as such should be deferred until after both lines are up and running. I am pleased to see that a Hollywood - Westside line is being considered. First let me emphasize that such a line should be secondary in importance to the Wilshire alignment. I would also like to see it materialize as a fully grade-separated line. Again, it would be better to wait and construct a better line than rush to build an inadequate one. I think to make this more feasible, the Santa Monica Blvd. route should be dropped in favor of this more dense alignment: Hollywood/Highland Sunset/La Brea Sunset/Fairfax Santa Monica/Fairfax Beverly/Fairfax Beverly/La Cienega La Cienega/Wilshire (Purple Line) This would connect to popular attractions like The Grove and the Beverly center. Remember that the current Red Line was originally intended to travel to Hollywood via Fairfax. Jogging west to La Cienega would allow greater coverage and the potential for a future southward extension to the Expo line:

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La Cienega/Pico La Cienega/Venice Expo Line(Washington/National or La Cienega/Jefferson) I hope my suggestions have been helpful, but most importantly, I hope that the Purple line is built, and built well. You have the power to vastly improve this great city with this one project. I trust you will do a good job. Best, Andrew Reed Long Beach

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 4:57 PMTo: Clarissa Filgioun; Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: Last one for today I promise

Gotta go home and hand out candy ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 3:46 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Maris lastName: Clement organization: address: 1418 N. Spaulding Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 03:45 PM ‐0800 comment: I support the extension of the metro anywhere. No I don't wnat it under my house, but I realize that something has got to change. Our traffic is a nightmare, and I sused to take the subway and would be happy to again if it comes near my house. People need to get to the valley and out to Santa Monica without cars. So, though it will be tough living through it, I support underground transportation, or above if that works.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 4:41 PMTo: Ginny-Marie Case; Clarissa FilgiounSubject: One More

‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 3:39 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Camilo lastName: Silva organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90027 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 03:39 PM ‐0800 comment: Both extensions on crucial in order to keeping the city cohesive. Build them both...they are desparately need because both Santa Monica Blvd and Wilshire are disasters. I also support using the existing right of way through Cheviot Hills for the Expo Blue line.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Richard lastName: Davis organization: address: 2015 Cantata Drive city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90068 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 03:07 PM -0800

comment:

We support the westside extension. I live near the Hollywood / Highland station and work onthe west side. I would ride the subway. Both the Susnet and Wilshire routes are needed.

Thank you,

Rick Davis

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Derrick lastName: Lo organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 02:28 PM -0800

comment:

Both the Wilshire and Santa Monica alignments are needed. Having both routes would make the Hollywood and West Hollywood districts much more accessible to Westsiders. If there was just the Wilshire alignment, one would have to travel all the way to Wilshire/Western and transfer to the North Hollywood bound Red Line. Conversely, if there was only the Santa Monica alignment, one would have to pass through Hollywood via the Wilshire/Western bound Red Line to get to Koreatown. You can't have one without the other. While we're at it, we might as well go all out on this project.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: tracy lastName: dudman organization: address: 110 6th street, apt. a city: hermosa beach state: ca zipcode: 90254 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 02:13 PM -0800

comment:

Please consider putting a station at Wilshire and Westwood that will provide UCLA/Wilshire corridor with rail access.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: amy lastName: aquino organization: sunset square, Hollywood CPAB TRaffic Committee address: PO Box 461653 city: LA state: ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 02:04 PM -0800

comment:

I submitted a comment before but then attended (and spoke at) the BH meeting. I now feel that unless the extension addresses (in addition to the Wilshire Line) getting people to the major destinations of the Strip and the La Cienega/Beverly area it won't do enough good to be worth the effort. So instead of running the second line down Santa Monica Blvd (which is wide enough for at least one dedicated bus lane), there should be a connection from Hollywood and Vine to Sunset and LaBrea, then along Sunset to the Strip, then down La Cienega to the Wilshire line. This would connect downtown Hollywood, Sunset and Fairfax, the Strip, the restaurants and businesses all along La Cienega north, the PDC, Cedars Sinai, & the Beverly Center/Bev. Connection, and then get people to BH and the beach via a connection to the Wilshire line. Fairfax is overly wide for the current traffic, so a dedicated bus lane would be feasible and a very economical way to get people from both the Sunset and Wilshire Lines to the Grove/Farmer's Market, Park LaBrea and the Museums. As a long-time resident of Sunset and Curson, who does most of her business in the area and has been active for several years on Traffic committees, I see this as a meaningful way to deal with the present problems and to shape for the future.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: von Kerczek organization: address: P.O. Box 461806 city: West Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 01:44 PM -0800

comment:

I fully support the proposed subway for the West Side. I believe a subway is the only real option for the area as it is the fastest, is completely grade separated, and will be able to handle the passenger volume necessary to serve the West Side. Partial solutions and band-aid approaches will no longer suffice and it is long past time for investment in a serious solution to the West Side’s transit problems.

Regarding the alignment, I strongly urge that BOTH alignments be pursued. Short of that, the Santa Monica alignment would be far superior. It could utilize the MTA property at San Vicente and Santa Monica for a station. This alignment however should also stop at Santa Monica & Fairfax and then proceed to a stop at either Santa Monica & La Brea or Sunset & Gardner.

But again, both alignments should be ultimately pursued, even if they cannot be built concurrently. LA is at the vanguard of a movement to restructure auto-oriented built environments into transit-oriented built-environments. With $100 a barrel oil, global warming, and traffic gridlock, we have a window of opportunity we cannot afford to let close. We need both these lines and more. This is the start of a new and exciting phase of Los Angeles' development and maturation.

I suggest Metro reach out to other metropolitan transit agencies (such as Washington, DC, which is in the midst of proposed expansions of their Metro) in order to share information and coordinate on the national level. We are not alone in this effort.

Finally, once a course of action has been chose, the county and the municipal governments involved need to properly manage the growth and changes that will inevitably result. We will need to anticipate and manage the effects such development will have on the housing markets and local economies of the areas it passes through. Change will and should come as a result of any development, but that change should be anticipated and managed properly. To that end, the agencies protecting vulnerable residents and businesses must be beefed up and prepared in advance.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Marco lastName: Anderson organization: UC Irvine address: 8713 Palo Verde Rd city: Irvine state: ca zipcode: 92617 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 01:28 PM -0800

comment:

I am fully in favor of this project. I believe a JPA funded by a voter approved bond is the best way to get this project approved. As far as alignments go, any alignment will serve the area well. However it is important to get the project started ASAP, and build it all in one go. A two phase constuction like the Expo line or gold line will just lead to more problems down the road. Another important lesson is to plan for TOD (both residential and commercial along the whole line at the outset). Regards,

Marco Anderson

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Randy lastName: Brent organization: address: 1317 N Sweetzer Ave. #3 city: west hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90069 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 01:11 PM -0800

comment:

I am a strong supporter of the metro as I use the subway when going to staples, and ride metro rapid busses to work and to class at UCLA. I am excited and encouraged by the several areas currently being studied for what I hope is rail expansion.

Having said that, I would support the Westside extension, I would support the construction and headaches it will cause. I would even support increased fares and taxes if it meant metro could start tunneling ASAP.

While I believe the line down Wilshire is an important and obvious beginning place, I would like to see the red line, simultaneously extended down Santa Monica where it would meet the Wilshire line. I wholeheartedly believe the residents of Hollywood, West Hollywood and visitors into and out of these areas would use the system.

Subways are expensive, but they are the preferred mode of public transportation for the masses. Subways help make people feel that they are living in a modern world class city. And that counts when people decide whether to drive their car or take public transportation.

As a resident of West Hollywood and an employee in the miracle mile area, I dream of the day I can take a subway to work, then jump on it to go to class at UCLA and then back home. A simultaneous purple line and red line extension to Santa Monica will make my dream come true.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Mooney lastName: Starr organization: address: 1416 Lucile Ave city: LOS ANGELES state: CA zipcode: 90026 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 12:21 PM -0800

comment:

I advocate for Purple Line to SM staying under Wilshire. The Red Line spurring off from Highland under Sunset to meet the Purple in Century City and continuing on to SM. And Expo to keep the ROW in Cheviot Hills Phase II w/ absolutely no Venice/Sepulveda diversion but consider grade seperations.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Vito Grillo [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 12:22 PMTo: [email protected]: My Input on Westside Extension

Dear Metro I support and encourage expansion of the purple line down Wilshire to the sea. It is vital and crucial to a growing metro Los Angeles. The streets are beyond capacity. Citizens should be provided with an alternative way to travel east-west. Wilshire is the most heavily traveled corridor in the city and it makes the most sense to put transit on Wilshire. I would encourage Metro to look at improving the corridor in the following manner. Build 4 tracks the entire length of Wilshire from Western to the sea. That would allow express & local trains. As LA grows and expands one track will not be enough. It is important to plan for the future. All subway stations should have exits on both sides of Wilshire. It was a mistake with other stations to have exits on only one side of the street. That then forces pedestrians to cross traffic to reach their destination or to transfer to a bus. Often pedestrians run into traffic to avoid missing a bus that may come infrequently. This could be avoided if travelers could get to the side of the street that they desire. It makes for a pedestrian friendly environment. The purple line should follow Wilshire the entire way to ensure the most direct, rapid and efficient route to the sea. If the train doesn’t get people there faster than a car, they will not be willing to park their car and take the train. Also, I would argue that Metro should work in conjunction with the cities of LA, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica to improve the streetscape of Wilshire. That could be done by putting in bike lanes removed from traffic as done in The Netherlands and Scandinavia. The sidewalks should be expanded and split into Pedestrian and Bike zones. The bike zone should be a different color to keep pedestrians out of the way. Bikes would be require to travel in the same direction as traffic flows, but would be removed from the street. That improves the safety of bikers by buffering them from traffic by the parked cars and keeps traffic flowing by keeping bikes off the street. Bikes would then be required to follow all traffic signals. Wider sidewalks should also allow for cafes and shops, thus encouraging people to walk. Metro Los Angeles has been a car dominated city for too long. By creating a pedestrian friendly environment, the public will be more likely to walk. Thus creating a healthier city. It is obvious looking at old town Pasadena & the Abbot-Kinney neighborhoods; it is obvious that Angelinos are dying for walkable neighborhoods. There are currently not enough of such areas in LA and the Wilshire purple line extension is a tremendous opportunity to provide better transit options and create a better LA for all. Best -Vito Grillo Vito Grillo - International Programs Counselor UCLA - Education Abroad Program B-300 Murphy Hall | Box 957108 | 405 Hilgard Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90095-7108 Tel. 310.825.6966 | Fax. 310.794.4428 www.international.ucla.edu/eap

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 11:45 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Tyke lastName: Johnson organization: MetroRider.elhay.net address: city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90017 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 10:45 AM -0800

comment:

Red line extension should go from Hollywood/Highland to: Sunset / Faifax Fairfax / Santa Monica Fairfax / Beverly Beverly / La Cienega La Cienega / Wilshire La Cienega / Pico La Cienega / Venice La Cienega / Expo Line station.

the possibly further to the aviation/greenline - which should have a underground line that connects from there to all LAX terminals

by extending the red line (sometimes dubbed the pink line) we can keep the purple line on track down wilshire to the sea:

wilshire/crenshaw wilshire/la brea wilshire/fairfax wilshire/la cienega (pink line transfer) wilshire/beverly dr santa monica/ave of the stars santa monica/westwood wilshire/westwood wilshire/vet medical center wilshire/barrington (maybe) wilshire/bundy wilshire/26th wilshire/20th wilshire/14th wilshire/3rd St. prom

westside terminus station for purple and expo lines

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: jeff lastName: jarow organization: ocean park association address: opa - p.o. box 5006 city: santa monica state: ca zipcode: 90409 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 10:38 AM -0800

comment:

if you ever do build the subway..the route should definitely be along the busiest transportation corridor (wilshire blvd)..

the expo line will no doubt be done light years before the subway, and i think the only way to get 'new' people to use that line to commute to and from downtown would be to have an express line directly to and from with maybe a quick stop in beverly hills and westwood. i think it will be really hard to convince people (not currently commuting by bus)to spend 45 - 60 minutes commuting to downtown through culver city and other very dense communities along the way !

both the subway and the expo should consider a quick express, at rush hours especially, to convince 'new commuters' that the trip will save them time when commuting....after all...if someone can drive their nice cars to downtown in the morning..and take around 40 minutes...what would be their incentive to sit in a crowded train that takes an hour..and out of their way ?!?!

with regard to the expo...i think the main station should be in the bergamont station area..maybe as part of a development agreement with the company that plans to build another 300,000 square feet...and build a train/bus hub for the city of santa monica..along with housing and retail...and have the city's big blue electric/alternative fuiel shuttles bring them throughout the city...quietly...efficiently...

by having a station at the sears site, only encourages more traffic for people to park for the train station !...there should be a bus station/hub downtown santa monica/sears site...too and from the train station closer to the edge of santa monica...easier access for cars planning on parking and using the mass transportation.

and of course...the alternative to what ive just said...is to build your expo line right to sears...but keep the line elevated on the 10 freeway (like the 105 fwy)...and pull directly into the sears station...not impeding the aready crowded streets of the dowtown area of downtown santa monica.

respectfully submitted by: jeff jarow (ocean park resident)

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Brad lastName: Meyers organization: address: city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 09:29 AM -0800

comment:

Please build the Heavy Rail option as soon as possible. This is the most efficient means of transportation and will get people out of their cars an using public transit. We need this NOW!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Alex lastName: Dorn organization: address: city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90026 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 09:08 AM -0800

comment:

The Metro should stop at places Angelinos DRIVE to, in order to relieve congestion, a straight shot to the beach may relieve traffic on the 10, but what about surface streets?

The metro should stop at the grove, the beverly center, century city) UCLA, West Hollywood ("boystown")third street promenade, and the beach. (no, not in that order)notice that most of these places are also near MAJOR work centers (westwood, Santa Monica, Century city, etc.)

The Idea is to get LOCAL people OUT of their cars, so the subway should take them to ALL the places they want to go.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Victoria lastName: Razzano organization: address: 1239 12th Street, Apt 10 city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90401 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 08:32 AM -0800

comment:

I think it is NECESSARY to have a metro from downtown to Santa Monica. I'd be happy with either Wilshire or Santa Monica Blvd as an option. It is impossible to get downtown from Santa Monica in the evening, and continues to get worse. I am from NY and LOVE the option of taking mass transportation. I especially think that with all the new development of the downtown district that an alternative to driving is needed.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Russell lastName: Sherman organization: La Brea-Hancock Homeowners Association address: 658 S. Citrus Ave city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90036 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 08:30 AM -0800

comment:

We support a subway along Wilshire in addition to the Exposition line. We strongly oppose dedicated bus lanes, either option "a" or "b" as proposed in the DOT report dated April 2007. We support enginering enhancements along Wilshire as proposed in the same report. We strongly oppose any proposal that will reduce sidewalk width along Wilshire and that would reduce vehicle capacity on Wilshire.

CITY HALL VALLEY OFFICE 200 N. Spring Street 14310 Ventura Blvd., Rm. 440 Ste. 100 Los Angeles, CA 9001 2 Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (21 3) 473-7005 (81 8) 756-8083 Fax: (21 3) 978-2250 Fax: (818) 788-9210 Councilmember.WeissQlacity.org www.lacity.org/council/cd5 WEST L. A. OFFICE

822 S. Robertson Blvd., Ste. 102

Los Angeles, CA 90035

JACK WEISS Councilmember, Fifth District Chair, Public Safety Committee

(31 0) 289-0353 Fax: (31 0) 289-0365

October 30, 2007

Mr. David Mieger, Project Manager Metro One Gateway Plaza MS 99-22-5 Los Angeles, CA 9001 2

Dear Mr. Mieger:

As the elected City representative for many of the communities that could be served by the Westside Transit Corridor, I am pleased to have the opportunity to write in support of this extension. I applaud Metro for serving the Westside with the Rapid bus and other bus services, but it is clear that existing service is and will continue to be inadequate to serve the current and future transit needs.

It is essential that employment centers on the Westside such as Century City become better connected. With tens of thousands of workers conling from all corners of the County, Century City is the economic engine for the entire region and should be served by an efficient and modern connection to bus and rail lines. We must make key destinations more readily accessible which is the only way we are going to get larger numbers of people out of their cars and onto mass transit.

The future of our region is dependent on a system that will allow communities already served by subway and light rail to also connect with Beverly Hills, Century City, Westwood, UCLA, and eventually Santa Monica. Therefore, stations that are being considered for Century City and Westwood are crucial to make this system effective.

I am convinced that the future transit demands for the Westside cannot be adequately addressed without a heavy rail line, preferably a subway extension from the existing Red Line Subway.

I appreciate the thoughtful consideration of my comments and many others offered by the community during the scoping process. Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely,

JACK WEISS

November 1, 2007 Mr. David Mieger, AICP Project Manager and Deputy Executive Officer Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (METRO) One Gateway Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012. Via email to [email protected] Here are my suggestions for the Scoping phase of the Westside Extension Transit Corridor project. Route options north of Wilshire Boulevard: There are multiple major destinations north of Wilshire Blvd. that may be more important to serve than Wilshire itself, if end-to-end running time isn’t seriously slowed. These include Farmers Market / The Grove / CBS; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center / Beverly Center; and West Hollywood / Pacific Design Center. I’ve sketched three potential route options onto your map (Attachment A): 1. Third Street would cut from Wilshire & La Brea to 3rd & Fairfax (under a Park La

Brea diagonal street?), then head west on 3rd, serving Beverly Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center from the south, then down Santa Monica Blvd. to serve downtown Beverly Hills from the north. The just-over-a-mile distance from Santa Monica & Beverly to Santa Monica & Avenue of the Stars in Century City suggests considering no station at Wilshire & Santa Monica. Conversely, the 1.5 miles from San Vicente to Beverly Hills suggests considering an additional station for this dense multi-family residential area. Estimated travel time, based on the Red Line timetable (Attachment 2) appears only 1 minute longer than Wilshire.

2. Beverly Boulevard would keep the line on Wilshire to Fairfax to serve the LA

County Museum of Art, then turn north as the original Wilshire-Fairfax subway would have done, with the Fairfax station entrance across Wilshire from the La Brea Tar Pits. The next station could be under Fairfax in front of Farmers Market, before turning west under Beverly Blvd. Following a station at Cedars-Sinai, the line would continue under Beverly and turn south on Santa Monica, like Option 1. This adds an additional station and appears about 3 minutes longer than Wilshire.

3. San Vicente Boulevard would turn north on San Vicente from Wilshire, to West

Hollywood. It misses Farmers Market, does serve Cedars-Sinai and Beverly Center, and adds a station either at the Pacific Design Center before curving west onto Santa Monica Blvd., or after the curve on Santa Monica. It also adds a station, and appears about 2 minutes longer than Wilshire.

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mailto:[email protected]

Beverly Hills – Hollywood Connection: I consider the Wilshire corridor primary, but also find a connection from Beverly Hills via West Hollywood to Hollywood very important. That area has no easy freeway access, and could strongly benefit from a rail transit link, for travel between the Westside and Hollywood or the San Fernando Valley. Perhaps it should be a separate light rail line, on the surface where the old Pacific Electric right-of-way still exists, then tunneled the rest of the way from West Hollywood to Hollywood & Highland? North-South Corridor: The concurrent Crenshaw-Prairie corridor study’s northern boundary is Wilshire Blvd. Is there a way within the scope of the Westside Extension study to consider a single north-south line from LAX to Hollywood? Such a line could use some combination of Crenshaw, La Brea, Fairfax, and/or San Vicente to connect Exposition & Crenshaw to Hollywood & Highland. I-405 Corridor: Transit along the I-405 corridor from the San Fernando Valley to Westwood, LAX, and the South Bay is critical and missing. The current Metro LRTP suggests only BRT along the I-405 HOV lanes, and no rail line. An effective interface between the Wilshire corridor and the I-405 corridor (interim BRT, future rail) is very important to consider. Good access to the UCLA campus is also obviously important. West of I-405: A Wilshire subway may not extend west of Westwood, given its high capital cost and the lesser development density in Santa Monica. Western terminus locations beyond Westwood itself to consider include: 1. One more station on Wilshire between Federal and Bundy in West Los Angeles, to

allow Westside access to the subway without needing to cross the 405;

2. Ending at the Expo Line Bergamot Station station in Santa Monica; 3. Ending at Wilshire & Ocean in Santa Monica; 4. Ending at the Expo Line’s terminus around Colorado & 4th in Santa Monica.

Darrell Clarke P.O. Box 913 Santa Monica, CA 90406 [email protected]

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Attachment 1: Westside Extension (Purple Line) suggested mid-Wilshire to Beverly Hills route options

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Attachment 2: Westside Extension (Purple Line) estimated timetable Purple Line - via Wilshire Miles Minutes 7th & Flower Wilshire & Alvarado 1.1 3 Wilshire & Vermont 1.0 2 Wilshire & Normandie 0.7 2 Wilshire & Western 0.5 1 Wilshire & Crenshaw 0.5 1 Wilshire & La Brea 1.5 3 Wilshire & Fairfax 1.0 2 Wilshire & La Cienega 0.9 2 Wilshire & Beverly 1.3 2 Santa Monica & Ave of the Stars 1.3 3 Wilshire & Westwood 1.5 3 Wilshire & Veterans 0.7 1 Wilshire & Bundy 1.0 2 Wilshire & 26th 0.8 2 Wilshire & 14th 0.9 2 Wilshire & Ocean 1.0 2 Total 33 Purple Line - via 3rd & SM Wilshire & La Brea 3rd & Fairfax 1.3 3 3rd & San Vicente 0.8 2 Santa Monica & Beverly 1.5 3 Santa Monica & Ave of the Stars 1.1 2 Net increase 1 Purple Line - via Fairfax, Beverly, and SM Wilshire & La Brea Wilshire & Fairfax 0.8 2 3rd & Fairfax 0.8 2 Beverly & San Vicente 1.2 3 Santa Monica & Beverly 1.5 3 Santa Monica & Ave of the Stars 1.1 2 Net increase 3 Purple Line - via San Vicente & SM Wilshire & La Brea Wilshire & Fairfax 1.0 2 Beverly & San Vicente 1.5 3 Santa Monica & San Vicente 0.9 2 Santa Monica & Beverly 1.3 2 Santa Monica & Ave of the Stars 1.1 2 Net increase 2 Red Line Miles Minutes 7th & Flower Wilshire & Alvarado 1.1 3 Wilshire & Vermont 1.0 2 Beverly & Vermont 1.0 2 Santa Monica & Vermont 1.1 2 Sunset & Vermont 0.5 1 Hollywood & Western 1.2 2 Hollywood & Vine 1.0 2 Hollywood & Highland 0.7 2

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Version 3

P.O. Box 567 * San Fernando, CA 91341-0567 * V: 818.367.1661 * F: 818.367.1633 * www.thetransitcoalition.usxxxxx The Transit Coalition (a project of SEE) is a nonprofit public charity exempt from federal income tax under Section 501[c](3) of the Internal Revenue Code

Thursday, November 1, 2007

David Mieger, AICP Deputy Executive Officer for Westside Planning Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority One Gateway Plaza, M/S 99-22-5 Los Angeles, CA 90012-2952 Dear Mr. Mieger: We want to express our gratitude for giving the public the opportunity to voice our support, concerns and ideas for the Metro Westside Extension through this public scoping process. Whatever form mass transit will take along this corridor, it should not ignore Century City, which not only is a major employment center, but will also have more residents in the near future. It would be beneficial if Metro serves this area with a “mainline” station and not a spur. Should the rapid transit line be a subway, it can swing northwest towards Westwood and possibly UCLA. At the Westwood station, Metro should consider providing space for a future north-south rapid transit line paralleling either Westwood Blvd. or Sepulveda Blvd. While we view the Hollywood-West Hollywood-Beverly Hills corridor as a prime candidate for successful rail service, it would be better to spin this off as an entirely new project that would serve a more regional purpose: A west-north bypass of Downtown L.A. that can go beneath dense development and provide another crossing of the Santa Monica Mountains. In this fashion, this separate service would not branch off of the Red Line at Hollywood/Highland. Instead, it would cross it and serve as a shuttle between Hollywood and any future rapid transit paralleling Wilshire, serving West Hollywood. Should the Westside Extension be built underground, we also recommend the following: • Prepare a draft, and then final, environmental document that covers the entirety of the corridor,

not just piece-by-piece extensions, and • Fund and build approved long-enough portions by using additional equipment, such as

employing four tunnel-boring machines instead of two, so that Metro can open the project sooner and without a cash crunch that would be caused by inflation.

The Transit Coalition will continue to support your efforts to bring rapid transit to the Westside. Sincerely, Bart Reed Executive Director

Numan B. Parada Communications Director

Version 3

P.O. Box 567 * San Fernando, CA 91341-0567 * V: 818.367.1661 * F: 818.367.1633 * www.thetransitcoalition.usxxxxx The Transit Coalition (a project of SEE) is a nonprofit public charity exempt from federal income tax under Section 501[c](3) of the Internal Revenue Code

Metro Westside Extension Transit Corridor Scoping Comments To: Mr. David Mieger, AICP, Project Manager and Deputy Executive Officer From: Jonathan Yee, Traffic Engineer Consultant, concerned Southern California resident I am in great support of this study and hope to see any transit improvements put into place in the Westside. Alternatives • I believe a Santa Monica Boulevard or Wilshire Boulevard alignments should be studied Impacts In the table below, I have suggested modes and lines to be used for case studies to evaluate impacts of each technology. These include: • Noise: Decibel measurements for each mode • Visual: On site pictures of at-grade, below-grade, and above-grade modes • Costs: Review costs/expenses reported by operating agencies for each mode • Traffic impact: Estimation of trips diverted or captured. These include vehicle count reductions after opening of

a line as well as rider-ship reduction from existing transit service. PLEASE include any surveys or studies conducted to identify usage from land uses near transit stations

• Economic impact on existing land use: If possible, the effect on parking, retail revenues, and real estate values • Level of Service: Measured speed, capacity (in passenger-miles), and on-time performance of each mode • Growth inducing impacts 1: Estimation of development opportunities and community/developer willingness to

develop vacant lots or redevelop existing lots. Each case study should be modified to match characteristics of the Westside, thus crime, education, poverty, and other demographics should be adjusted to obtain a more accurate expectation of growth impacts of each mode

• Growth inducing impacts 2: Evaluate the likelihood of develop or redevelopment. Use the SCAG 2% Opportunities and the UCLA Lots Opportunity Tracking System. Use these in conjunction with the City of Los Angeles, City of Beverly Hills, City of West Hollywood, and City of Santa Monica General Plans.

Mode/ Bus Rapid Transit Bus Rapid Transit

with bus lanes Light Rail Transit Heavy Rail Transit

Case Studies

• MTA Orange Line • MTA Rapid Lines

• Eugene Lane TD EmX Line

• MTA Gold Line • MTA Blue Line

• Metro Red Line • Metro Purple Line • BART • CTA Elevated Train Lines

Service Activity Centers and dense land uses

• The existing transit network should be evaluated to identify current transit accessibility of activity centers • All alternatives should contain stops where multiple transit routes converge to increase transit mobility • For centers with poor transit access (as defined by Metro), all alternatives should contain stops within ¼

mile of the site • Identify who will be using these alternatives. White collar residents, blue collar residents, or

tourists/visitors? Does the alternative increase accessibility between destination and origin of these users? Final Words: I think any improvement to the circulation and transit network combined with development/ tax incentives will likely mitigate impacts from future growth. As a consultant, I strongly believe case studies are more accurate and less time consuming than making numerous assumptions and performing calculations using National Standards that may or may not apply to areas within the Westside Corridor. Thank you. Sincereley, Jonathan Yee

November 1, 2007 David Mieger, AICP Project Manager and Deputy Executive Officer, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority Re: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Study Having advocated strenuously for a heavy rail line to carry passengers from downtown Los Angeles to the sea for 25 years now, I am delighted to offer continued encouragement, advocacy and feedback for a Metro study of that and other options to improve transportation in, through and across the metropolitan Los Angeles area, pursuant to the Alternatives Analysis process that I am confident will lead to FTA approval and New Start funding by Congress. I am committed to promote two objectives as part of this process: First, that the Westside Extension Transit Corridor obtain the best designed, built and run transportation mode feasible in full accordance with the needs, values and input of the Corridor’s communities and the passengers who traverse it. Second, that the Corridor, during construction and service, be the safest, most innovative, and most efficient system of its kind. I promise my maximum effort to achieve that end to my constituents, and to my colleagues in Metro, the California Legislature and Congress who will be solicited to approve funds for a project that must be as demonstrably cost effective as it is needed. With that commitment in mind, I approach the study and its possible outcomes with an open mind. What my constituents want and need, is what I support. To that end, I have closely followed the Westside Corridor’s progress thus far, and my office has participated in MTA sessions, your agency briefings, and the public Scoping meetings in mid-Wilshire and West Hollywood held on October 16th and 29th. Having also solicited and received considerable feedback from constituents, my local elected colleagues, transportation, planning and environmental experts, and other stakeholders, I urge that the following community concerns be studied specifically to assess options, challenges, cost and efficacy:

• Equitable regard for the concerns, safety and service of alignment communities • Maximized aesthetic, sound, vibration, environmental & privacy mitigations • Preservation/improvement of quality-of-life for neighborhoods, schools & businesses • Connection to the proposed Crenshaw/Prairie line facilitating Green Line & LAX access • Full & fair consideration to a West Hollywood alignment & to the Beverly Hills proposal • Wilshire/La Brea station connection to Crenshaw/Prairie line, avoiding hydrogen sulfide • Maximize cost-effective, innovative, environmentally sound design/construction!

All alignment options and transportation modes (LRT, BRT) should be examined exhaustively in terms of these factors, as well as ridership, mobility and development opportunities. Local proposals, alternative solutions, and those which integrate multi-purposed uses and mitigations must be encouraged and closely studied. Please contact me or my transportation deputy, Charles Stewart, for any follow-up. Sincerely,

Diane E. Watson Member of Congress

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Millie Tezanos [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 9:46 AMTo: Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: RE: Westside Extension Reminder: Comment period closes November 1Attachments: image001.jpg

Has the Venice-to-the-beach route been eliminated from review?

From: Ginny-Marie Case [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 5:20 PM To: Millie Tezanos Subject: Westside Extension Reminder: Comment period closes November 1

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This e-mail and any attachments may contain confidential and privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately by return e-mail, delete this e-mail and destroy any copies. Any dissemination or use of this information by a person other than the intended recipient is unauthorized and may be illegal.

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Ginny-Marie Case

Sent: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 8:23 AMAttachments: image001.jpg

Attached is a letter from David Gustavson regarding the Westside Transit Corridor Extension. The MTC report has been sent to you via US mail. We understand that the deadline is December 1, 2007. If you need the report sooner, I can send it via email. Please contact me if you have any questions. Thank you, -------------------------------------------- Karen Gutierrez Executive Assistant City of Beverly Hills P: (310) 285-2452 F: (310) 858-5965

This message contains information which may be privileged, confidential and intended only for the addressee. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you

are hereby notified that any use, dissemination, distribution or reproduction of this communication, or any part thereof, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please advise the sender by reply E-mail and delete the message.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Bette Billet [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 5:45 PMTo: Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: Re: Westside Extension Reminder: Comment period closes November 1Attachments: image001.jpg

Thanks for ll your good work.Bette Billet SORONC Board of Direcors On 10/30/07, Ginny-Marie Case <[email protected] > wrote:

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-- SORONC,Board of Directors

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Andre Morimoto [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 5:29 PMTo: Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: Re: Metro Westside Extension: West Hollywood MeetingAttachments: image001.jpg

Thanks. I sent in my comments. I'm a native Angeleno and moved to SF this past spring to start a business. But, my heart will always be w/left in L.A. I'll be baaack someday!! Hopefully, we'll have a subway funded and construction started in the next 5 years.

On 10/23/07, Ginny-Marie Case <[email protected]> wrote:

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Andre Leb [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 3:15 PMTo: [email protected]: Downtown / westside subway lineAttachments: image001.gif; image002.gif

If there was a line going east west from downtown to Santa monica I’d retire my car for most of the week. I work in westwood, I love going to the beach and the opera downtown but I hate the traffic…

André R. Leb Director of Business Development

PriceGrabber.com 10940 Wilshire Blvd

11th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90024

[email protected] AIM: Andrezao

tel: fax:

mobile:

(310) 954-1040 x208 (310) 824 - 8508 310.918.0517

Always have my latest info Want a signature like this?

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: Dravillas organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 07:08 AM -0800

comment:

Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts.

New transit options to westside? YES!

I would prefer a subway that went from Hollywood and Vine (my neighborhood) or Hollywood and Highland to Santa Monica(where I work).

There are already stations in my community, as mentioned above.

I prefer a subway, with the alignment noted above, for several reasons. 1) It is a more direct route for me from home in Hollywood to work in Santa Monica. 2)I've taken subway, light rail, and bus, and only subway meets all important criteria, e.g. timeliness/reliability, fast, and comfortable. Light rail has to slow down through neighborhoods and/or when at grade. Buses are overcrowded, the seats are too narrow (I have to sit leaning forward with shoulders squeezed forward to sit with passengers surrounding me) and I always feel ill while on the bus and for a great deal of time afterward. I don't know why this is (the natural gas? the gas fumes? body odor of passengers? not enough O2 in relation to available space and number of passengers? I don't know, but it happens every time). My experience with the red line has been excellent - almost always on time, fast, can usually find a seat, can sit comfortably, when I need to stand ride is smooth (unlike bus where you sometimes get seriously jarred). On subway I can get work done. On buses I cannot, due to reasons mentioned above. 3) Hollywood and Vine/Highland alignment would allow stops along Santa Monica blvd in WeHo, the Fairfax district/the Grove, and if diverted slightly, the Sunset Strip. This would allow access to nightlife as well as jobs. 4) It seems likely that Wilshire will have a dedicated bus line in the near future. Thus there is the potential to have 3 options for traveling East and West: the Expo line south of the 10, dedicated bus line along Wilshire, and subway from Hollywood to Santa Monica. This will allow more communities to be served, and people traveling for various reasons to be served - for work and for entertainment.

I have a question. If the Hollywood and Highland alignment was built, would I be able to travel without a transfer from Hollywood and Vine to Santa Monica?

Thanks again for this opportunity.

John Dravillas

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Samuel lastName: Masterson organization: Bristol Farms address: 915 East 230th St city: Carson state: CA zipcode: 90745 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 06:14 AM -0800

comment:

Can you describe what an "Alignment/Station" is, as shown on the SE corner of Sunset and Fairfax? We have a Bristol Farms store onthat corner and there is very little parking lot there.

Thank you.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Hannah lastName: Brumer organization: Sunset Square address: 1623 No. Orange Grove Ave city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Time: 03:54 AM -0800

comment:

I am in favor of a Metro Expansion. I am primarily concerned that the route, should the expansion occur in our neighborhood, be done in a way that it does not travel under our homes. That is an easily accomplished feat, I believe, and a reasonable one given the age of Sunset Square's old foundations and infrastructure [i.e., sewers]. l

Thank you, Hannah Brumer

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Dairenn lastName: Lombard organization: address: 4112 1/2 Halldale Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90062-1876 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 11:01 PM -0800

comment:

Even though a "subway to the sea" will take over a decade to build, and cost five billion dollars, the state of California owes it to its most economically important city to keep growth from being stunted by the mobility quagmire of our car-oriented transportation system. Ultimately, I would imagine most people would want a 1,000-passenger capacity train system that is capable of taking people down Santa Monica Blvd. from 4th St. to Wilshire Blvd. where it can then turn right and travel down Wilshire to Western Ave. One of the people that spoke at the meeting the other night had mentioned something where as service is built eastbound, a feeder bus could begin from Western Ave. and connect people to the most recently completed stations. This seemed like the best idea to me.

Very few people spoke about their preferred method of transit (Rapid, BRT, LRT or HRT) but it sounded like most people wanted a subway. I would agree because while LRT, IMO, is always a better idea than BRT, both are just as disruptive to traffic patterns. You have to also obtain vast areas of space to establish stations. I sincerely doubt that the upscale communities on the westside would be tolerant of grade-separated stations either. Businesses would fight bus-only lanes because they would argue that it harms pedestrian and parking access. Removing the left turn lanes to build them in the middles of the roadway would meet just as much opposition. And ultimately, a BRT or Rapid solution only satisfies 1/10th of the capacity a subway service could provide.

Thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 11:45 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Stephanie lastName: Magnien organization: address: 813 Alpine Street #109 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90012 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 10:44 PM -0800

comment:

I think any new light rail on the or subway on the Westside should stop along place people actualy want to go like the bars on Santa Monica Blvd in West Hollywood, the Grove/Farmers Market, Beverly Center, UCLA, and the Veterans Hospital. Service should not end until at least an hour past 2am when the bars close. Metro losses Friday night and Saturday night riders because no one wants to go home at midnight.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Annette Mercer [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 10:01 PMTo: [email protected]: Scoping Comments

Yes, please build/extend the subway to Century City and Westwood/UCLA/ the VA. I vote for subway or LRT as the best provision of service into the years ahead and the least loss of ridership from changing modes.

The SAnta Monica end should connect with the end of the Expo Line somehow. If tunneled, perhaps you could pick up St. Johns and all the medical stuff at 20th Street in SM.

The sooner the better.

Annette Mercer 2647 Glendon Ave. Los Angeles, C 90064

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Reagan lastName: McClymonds organization: address: 1150 Granville #301 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90049 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 08:36 PM -0800

comment:

As a Brentwood resident, I am a big supporter of a transit alternative, namely a subway, for the Westside. It will reduce the need for devoting land to parking and will add immeasurably to the quality of life in Los Angeles. There is no way for the city to widen roads/build underground parking to grow responsibly. I don't care what the tax is, I would pay it.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Ted lastName: Winterer organization: address: 2411 3rd Street Apt E city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90405 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 08:01 PM -0800

comment:

I'm very much in favor of Phase 2 of the Expo LIne. However, I feel that from 17th Street to the west the line should run on Colorado rather than Olympic; should run at grade rather than above grade at any stations; a station should be added near Santa Monica College; and Bergamot Station should be an Expo station.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Richard lastName: Risemberg organization: bicyclefixation.com address: 648 1/2 S. Burnside Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90036 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 06:58 PM -0800

comment:

Went to the meeting held by Socata.org with Tony Loui and others. Overall was very pleased with what I heard, except for the idea you are studying of extending the Red Line to Santa Monica via West Hollywood, as opposed to extending the Purple Line via Wilshire.

The Wilshire Corridor has much worse traffic and much higher present and future densities than the West Hollywood route, and I feel it woudl be senseless to build the subway extension from Hollywood & Highland to Santa Monica & Wilshire, bypassing hundreds of thousands of residents and tens of thousands of jobs and destination facilities.

The Subway to the Sea must definitely follow Wilshire Boulevard.

However, I am all for the idea of a light-rail shuttle operating between Hollywood & Highland, and Santa Monica & Wilshire. If I recall correctly, the Los Angeles Railway ran along that route during my childhood, and something like it should again. (And in fact should continue to Century City and perhaps on down to Sepulveda, which deserves a line of its own, from Northridge to San Pedro, some day.)

Thank you,

Richard Risemberg

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Richard lastName: Best organization: address: 656 West Knoll Dr #102 city: West Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90069 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 06:43 PM -0800

comment:

I'd love to see Metro stations near Santa Monica Blvd in West Hollywood. The West Hollywood City Council is over-developing West Hollywood, and the city is almost in gridlock now. If Metro were available, those visiting West Hollywood could leave their cars outside the city and make parking/driving much easier for residents.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Raul lastName: cobian organization: Resident address: 1233 N. Genesee Ave. city: West Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 04:59 PM -0800

comment:

David, I am the guy who presented you with the "Red-Line" token on monday evening. Once again I thank you for your conisderation in allowing our community to be a part of this expansion sometime in the future. I believe it is a step in the right direction, I hope to be one of the first individuals to ride the system, not if, but when it becomes a reality.

Years back, when I was working past the LAX area I had the privledge to drive down the century freeway the day it opened. I was thrilled later to begin to use the "green-line" to go to work which dropped me off across the street of my job on Marine Ave. in Redondo Beach.

That project was on the planning stages for many years and I was very happy to see it unfold. Patience is the Key, and with your guidance, I have no doubt that this too will come to pass.

Once again, Thank you and Good Luck!

Raul Cobian

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Rob lastName: Bergstein organization: address: 1233 N. Genesee Avenue city: West Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Time: 04:39 PM -0800

comment:

I am fully in favor of a subway line to go along Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. We are totally traffic gridlocked & as West Hollywood is one of the "the" destination points for tourists & parties in Southern California, our success will bring, unfortuntaely, more traffic if there are no viable mass transit projects. As a member of the City of West Hollywood's Eastside Project Advisory Board, I know there are many exciting redevelopment projects in the pipeline for the East side of West Hollywood that would benefit from & be utitlized by better, more efficient mass transit. As a West Hollywood resident who worked downtown, I never drove--I always took the 217 bus to Hollywood and Highland and the Red Line from there straight downtown. It might not have saved a lot of time, but it was less stressful than driving and I'd love to have the same experience to go to the West side.

Very truly yours, Rob Bergstein (323) 810-3432

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: eric sievering [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 30, 2007 7:58 AMTo: [email protected]: west hollywood meeting

Thanks for taking my comment last night. i wanted to expand on my comment. What I was tyring to say was what I think would be most useful to the transit system would be to focus on building a bus only lane from the beach in santa monica east towards wilshire and westwood. On the otherside of the city I think focusing on building the subway west in segments. I think segments is key here. To make them useable in the next few or five years instead of 20years from now. I think the first priority should be to extend the purple line at least one or two more stops west. I ride the 720 rapid b us to work and get on the red line at vermont. I skip the purple line because it's not fast enough to get on at wilshire and western and then transfer to the redline. I think if you extended this line out just one or two stops you would greatly lower the transit time across the westside via public tranist. I would say your next priority would be to build a subway extension down santa monica from hollywood and highland into westhollywood. That would help ease much of the traffic in the general area. Much thanks

Eric Sievering _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live Hotmail and Microsoft Office Outlook – together at last. Get it now. http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook/HA102225181033.aspx?pid=CL100626971033

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Monday, October 29, 2007 8:37 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Bob lastName: Abrahams organization: (resident) address: 732 N Poinsettia Pl city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 07:37 PM -0800

comment:

1) Definitely build a subway that runs all the way to the ocean. The existing roads (no freeways) are all quite full already. A subway is needed to avoid intersections and occupation at grade. Other shorter-term approaches might be useful until the subway is built, but that's the long-run solution that's needed.

2) Santa Monica Blvd, at least between La Brea Ave. and San Vicente Blvd. needs to be part of the solution, even if the subway doesn't actually run under Santa Monica Blvd. itself. While my ideal would be Hollywood/Highland to La Brea/Santa Monica and west under Santa Monica, another solution would be a cross connection from Hollywood/Highland to La Brea/Wilshire and also San Vicente/Santa Monica (the MTA facility) to Fairfax/Wilshire. (A lot of MTA employees park in the parking lot there, don't they. They don't even take the MTA to work.)

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Beverly lastName: Crist organization: none address: 1124 Alvira Street city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90035 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 07:11 PM -0800

comment:

For westside public transit, I would like to see a continuation of the Red Line along Wilshile, from Western all the way to the city of Santa Monica. I would prefer a subway, but light rail would work too. I do not like buses, nor the proposed one way pair of Olymipic and Pico.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Amy lastName: Jenner organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90036 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 05:17 PM -0800

comment:

I live near Pan Pacific Park and I would love heavy rail/subway in my neighborhood. I do not currently use public transit, I drive. But the horrific traffic and parking make living in the city increasingly unpleasant. However, I don't feel safe waiting at bus stops at night which is why I would like to use a subway. I think either route would be great and that it should go all the way to Santa Monica. I've worked there numerous times and it would've been handy.

Most of your study probably has to do with commuters, but I think it would be great to have late service too that can help with the drunk driving problem (especially for the northern route).

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Rob lastName: Hunt organization: Bristol Farms address: 7880 Sunset city: Los Angeles state: Ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 02:49 PM -0800

comment:

The study map currently shows the Sunset/Fairfax stop on the Southeast corner. What is the thinking process on where the stops are located?

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Darwin lau [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, October 29, 2007 2:50 PMTo: [email protected]: I would like to comment on the Westside Extension Transit Corridor Video

LA is in desperate need of mass transit like this... I think the west side must be the most congested area in the region. heavy reall with the high capacity is the only solution to help alleviate this situation. I really welcome this project for LA.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: joshua lastName: blau organization: address: 7266 waring ave city: los angeles state: ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 12:12 PM -0800

comment:

Yes, we need ANOTHER line from the Eastside to the Beach. We need a line connecting Silverlake to Santa Monica (call it the "hipster line?". But seriously, need a line that links Silverlake, Hollywood, West Hollywood, UCLA, West LA, to the Beach. There is SO much traffic using the existing corridors. How about bringing back the streetcar on Santa Monica Blvd!!! I prefer Santa MOnica Blvd rather than Wilshire. Definitely need something to serve the UCLA/Westwood and Santa Monica/Westwide offices to peoples houses more in the Westside. Not a nanny line, a line that will allow people to give up their cars, and go from lively tourist/population centers in Silverlake/Hollywood/West Hollywood, to lively tourist/population centers in Santa Monica/WestLA.

Thanks. J. Blau

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: Halbert organization: address: 326 S. Normandie, #301 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90020 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 11:57 AM -0800

comment:

Flexcar is a company that provides cars on a limited basis, as people need them. I don't use it, but I'm tempted to. How about integrating Flexcar into subway planning? For example, put Flexcar stations near the major subway stops, like Wilshire/Western. So someone who lives Downtown but wants to do something in Koreatown could take the Red line to Wilshire/Western, pick up a car at the subway stop, do whatever, and then take the subway back home. That could save lots of time.

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comment:

This may sound a bit far-fetched, but what about naming rights for the subway? Instead of the Red line, you could have the Spielberg line. Or maybe the Paramount Stop at Wilshire/Vermont. Or the Tom Cruise Elevator at Wilshire/Fairfax.

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comment:

As part of the planning process, I would love to see more attention paid to the bus routes that connect to the existing and proposed subway stations. For example, there are several lines that serve Wilshire/Vermont, but not that many that serve Wilshire/Normandie. What are the plans to increase/supplement existing DASH service, for example? That might alleviate some of the bus/subway divide among transit riders.

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comment:

How about some kind of underground tunnels stretching out from the local stations, outfitted with, say, moving sidewalks or mini-subways? For example, it's a long walk from Wilshire/Fairfax to the Grove at 3rd/Fairfax, and buses between the two are a little slow, particularly on weekends. What if someone could just jump on a moving sidewalk, and be at the subway stop in 5 minutes? It sounds futuristic, but this is the 21st Century.

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comment:

I strongly support the Redline going to the Pacific. Some suggestions for the current subway:

1. Buses currently have a scrolling LED announcing the next stop. Something like that would be helpful in subways. Possibly some kind of electronic version of the maps would be good - a blinking light showing where the subway is on the Red/Purple Line. This would particularly help people who don't know which train they are on, which is a problem.

2. More maps of the local areas in the subway stops would be good. There are usually only one or two of these maps, and sometimes they are hard to find.

3. Attendants at the more popular stops would be great. Hollywood/Highland, Wilshire/Vermont, Metro Center would be key. Tourists in particular need help.

4. How about newsstands selling newspapers etc. in the more popular stops? Works in NY.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Monday, October 29, 2007 10:58 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Nicholas lastName: Saponara organization: address: 612 S. Flower Street - Unit 730 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 09:58 AM -0800

comment:

The Wilshire corridor is the best route for a westside connection. The density along the corridor is best suited for subterranean mass transit. IN addition, the Expo Line should be extensed west and N-S connectors such as the Crenshaw connection should be pursued. Heavy investment in transit infrastructure is necessary today to protect the social, economic, and environmental well being of Los Angeles and its residents in the generations to come. Mass transit will provide the framework in which responsible land use patterns will flourish, forging an enhanced quality of life for all Angelenos.

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From: Mathew Horne [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, October 29, 2007 10:09 AMTo: [email protected]: I would like to comment on the Westside Extension Transit Corridor Video

Dear Metro,

I am very encouraged by the series of events from Rep. Waxman's authoring of, and passage by the House of H.R. 4653, and now the scoping phase is finally here. All of this means that the Westside may finally be better served by Metro.

So I say, yes there should be new transit to the Westside and it should be a heavy rail subway, and we should build both alignments.

Heavy rail speed and capacity is needed to serve the growing westside.

Both alignments should be built because whether traveling for entertainment or business, residents of Hollywood should not have to backtrack on the Red line to Wilshire and Vermont to then transfer to the Purple line to make their trip to the Westside. Similarly residents of the Westside should not have to travel to Wilshire and Vermont to get to Hollywood via the Red line. My statement takes for granted that the Purple line from Downtown to Santa Monica will be built.

I see no reason not to build our future mass transit for maximum capacity, speed and seamless entertainment and business travel by completing the Red and Purple line to Santa Monica concurrentl. Certainly a bond will be required for such construction, so why not ask Angelino's to accept a larger bond to complete both alginments now, rather than eventually issue a bond later, at a higher cost to repay.

Sincerely,

Matthew Horne Pedestropolitans Los Angeles

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Tim lastName: Chaddick organization: address: 715 N. Hoover st city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90029 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 09:01 AM -0800

comment:

PLease continue the study of expanded Heavy rail! These possible extensions that you are considering would not only link job destinations, but cultural as well! I would ride every day if this was available, we are fed up with traffic!

thank you Metro!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Thomas lastName: De Simone organization: none address: 600 W. 9th Street #1106 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90015 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 29, 2007 Time: 08:54 AM -0800

comment:

We desperately need rail service with grade separations to the Westside. I frequently take the Rapid bus to the Westside, which typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to teh 405 fwy. I have also taken the Orange Line over a dozen times, which takes about 45 minutes to go 14 miles. Neither of these alternatives provide real access or speed to get people out of their cars. The Red Line goes about 20 miles in 15 minutes, giving riders a real alternative and the ridership numbers prove it. The density of bus ridership on Wilshire screams for a faster alternative. I think subway or rail with a grade separation from the street traffic are both reaonable alternatives. The Rapid Bus has not made travel any faster or provided real options for commuters and residents.

Thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Sunday, October 28, 2007 10:28 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Colleen lastName: Cavanaugh Anthony organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90042 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 28, 2007 Time: 09:28 PM -0800

comment:

I think extending the Purple line subway all the way to the ocean is an imperative that we can no longer ignore. Additional BRT routes are not going alleviate traffic in any meaningful way. I live on the Eastside, and driving to and from the Westside is one of the worst things I can think of doing. I avoid doing things West of La Brea because of the traffic. I believe Multiple subway or light rail lines from downtown to the ocean are necessary in the longterm, but the Wilshire line is the best start. The city should break ground on this extension as soon as possible.

Thanks! Colleen

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Robert lastName: Davenport organization: address: 564 Midvale Avenue # 8 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 28, 2007 Time: 07:46 PM -0800

comment:

You have to have stops in the middle of UCLA, and Santa Monica College. Not just a stop nearby, and then a shuttle bus. That's what they did at the airport, and it's totally retarded. Does anyone at Metro have a brain? Also, why isn't there a stop at the Hollywood Bowl? You have to put stops where people don't want to, or can't, take their cars. That is where your core business lays. Get a brain, or rent one!

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Emily lastName: Henry organization: USC address: city: Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90028 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 28, 2007 Time: 01:12 PM -0800

comment:

I think that a West-side extension will revolutionize LA... It should be as all-encompassing as possible though. West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and UCLA should be served on the way to Santa Monica, but a direct service from Downtown to the beach is also desirable. Either way, spider-webbing the rail across LA will make the city much more accessible and encourage people that it isn't necessary to drive all the time. I don't have a car and I love talking public transport to school (the red line and a bus). It is an insightful experience and gives me a chance to connect with LA's communities on the ground. Please do all you can to make this happen, and thank you for your efforts.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Carl lastName: Olson organization: address: P. O. Box 6102 city: Woodland Hills state: CA zipcode: 91365 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 28, 2007 Time: 12:12 PM -0800

comment:

Dear Metro:

A new east-west traffic facility under Wilshire Boulevard would be a terrific public service. The tunnel should be built as a 6-lane expressway for all vehicles, and should not be built for subway trains. These are the advantages:

1. Hundreds of thousands of persons and businesses can benefit daily, rather than the few persons on subway trains.

2. The construction would be much less expensive. No need for stations.

3. There would be no ongoing subsidized operating costs which could cost the public hundreds of millions of dollars annually.

4. Persons who would have used the corridor for a subway would also benefit by being able to take buses on the exact same route. The buses would have much more flexibility of service and routes than the fixed subway trains.

5. The expressway could open up for business sooner than a subway. It could be opened in segments for vehicle traffic. No need to wait for delivery of train cars and other installations--which can take extra months.

Metro should be maximizing the public benefit for the money. An expressway under Wilshire would be a terrific innovation for improving traffic. Moreover, it could be an excellent example for plenty more corridors to eliminate the perpetual traffic jams on freeways.

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From: [email protected]: Sunday, October 28, 2007 10:09 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: John Tanner lastName: Blackman organization: L.A. City Planning Department address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 28, 2007 Time: 09:09 AM -0800

comment:

The most urgent transportation issue facing our city is the dire need for completely grade-separated, underground rail (i.e. the red/purple line) continuing west down the entirety of Wilshire Blvd (with maybe a quick zigzag to service Century City) all the way to Santa Monica. Also, please study the same type of rail for a potential line from Hollywood/Highland to meet up with the Wilshire line at some point. Community support exists; technology to mitigate methane hazards exists; the redline has been an amazing catalyst for focused development; and the costs of building the subway are only going to rise the longer we wait. Godspeed.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Dan Kegel [[email protected]]Sent: Sunday, October 28, 2007 10:03 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Expansion comment

Hi! My digital comment is online at http://kegel.com/transit/comment-2007-10-26.html

It's an HTML document, mostly plain text, but with a few hyperlinks.

If you're going to make the public comments available on a web site or in a .pdf file, it'd be cool if you could preserve the hyperlinks!

Please let me know if you receive this ok.

Thanks, Dan Kegel

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Saturday, October 27, 2007 9:11 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Ramin lastName: Bastani organization: address: 1555 Vine St. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90028 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 27, 2007 Time: 09:10 PM -0700

comment:

Please the subway down Wilshire (beyond Western)happen...I suggest you use the property taxes from the parcels along that street to help pay for it. I moved near a red-line station so i could take it to my office downtown. Thanks!

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Saturday, October 27, 2007 9:58 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Carole lastName: Magnuson organization: Westwood Hills Property Owners Association address: 11147 Ophir Drive

city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 27, 2007 Time: 09:58 AM -0700

comment:

RE: Metro Westside Extension Transit Corridor

Dear Metro Planners

I am writing on behalf of the community of Westwood Hills, a neighborhood of 608 single family homes situated between Wilshire Blvd. and Sunset Blvd., west of Veteran Ave, to express support for a new Metro transit alternative that would have a station near the intersection of Veteran and Wilshire. Such a station would serve a wide range of transportation needs of persons of all ages, including those of our residents, UCLA students, staff and visitors, hospital staff and patients, more than 10,000 office workers employed in private and public offices on Wilshire Blvd., and residents in nearby apartments and condominium projects. A new subway or surface rail service would also serve the more than 260,000 persons who attend sports and cultural events on campus and in Westwood Village. To the extent that these persons choose this options, traffic in nearby areas such as ours will be reduced. It should be noted that even at existing levels of usage, traffic demand far outstrips the capacity of the existing infrastructure and there is little opportunity to expand the Westwood Village and neighborhood streets that are currently carrying inappropriate levels of traffic.

Westwood is a densely populated center with a variety of urban uses, including a major university and hospital, that insure its status as a major destination that make it an obvious location for a transit terminal. In planning this new transit option, Metro should take care to insure that it is part of a comprehensive transportation system with connectivity to other transit components, such as shuttle connections from Expo to Wilshire lines, and with parking or other accommodation for riders who live beyond walking distance of the terminal.

Regards,

Carole Magnuson President, Westwood Hills Property Owners Association

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Friday, October 26, 2007 4:37 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Mark lastName: Terwilliger organization: address: 9001 Dorrington Ave city: West Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90048 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 26, 2007 Time: 04:37 PM -0700

comment:

The westside desperately needs a viable subway / light rail system that should have been built 20 years ago. The last thing we need are more buses. On streets like Santa Monica Blvd, etc. they cause more traffic than they alleviate.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Gary lastName: Russell organization: Wilshire Center Business Improvement Corp address: 3600 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 1032 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90010 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 26, 2007 Time: 02:57 PM -0700

comment:

Your statement "It began operations to Wilshire and Western Avenue in Koreatown in 1996." is not correct. The MTA stop at Wilshire & Western is in Wilshire Center. Please correct, thanks. Definition of Wilshire Center and Koreatown are clearly delineated in the Wilshire Community Plan, Los Angeles Department of City Planning, and adopted September 19, 2001; for more information about Wilshire Center please to www.wilshirecenter.com.

We need to continue and connect the subway from Wilshire Center to Miracle Mile to Beverly Hills to Century City and to Westwood. It is critical for our future that this work starts soon.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Greg lastName: Ames organization: Trammell Crow Company address: 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2600 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90067 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 26, 2007 Time: 01:53 PM -0700

comment:

1) Westside extension should be underground rail, following both proposed Santa Monica Blvd & Wilshire Corridors. 2) Stops should include adequate parking for drivers to arrive at rail, and proceed via mass transit from that point. If drivers do not have the ability to "park and ride" they will not ride.

3) North-South connection between Expo Rail and new Westside Extension is a must. 4) Westside extension should anticipate stops necessary to accomodate positioning of future North-South lines (to LAX?)

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Lawrence lastName: Braman organization: address: 1541 S Ogden Dr city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90019 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 26, 2007 Time: 12:30 PM -0700

comment:

I encourage you to re-examine a monorail system along some of our major boulevards. The cost is evidently far less than a subway, and the building speed far faster. We need alleviation now, not 20 years from now.

I also would like to see a non-polluting system (i.e. electrical or magnetic), whatever it may be.

I would be happy to have any kind of transit station in my neighborhood, the Pico/Fairfax area.

Thank you for your work.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Thursday, October 25, 2007 9:02 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: Nunez organization: address: 121 South Hope Street #502 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90012 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 25, 2007 Time: 09:02 PM -0700

comment:

As a downtown resident who experiences daily commutes to my job in Hancock Park, a subway extension along Wilshire Blvd. to Santa Monica is an absolute must. Buses and cars already vie for precious lane space. Adding more busways or grade level rail will only intensify the gridlock on continually clogged streets. A subway, extending along Wilshire Blvd. with stops in Century City, Beverly Hills, Westwood and Santa Monica is an investment that will offer viable, fast transport through dense neighborhoods.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Larry lastName: Boring organization: HHWNC address: 1428 N Orange Grove city: Los Angeles state: Ca zipcode: 99046-3906 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 25, 2007 Time: 03:31 PM -0700

comment:

I live in the Sunset/Fairfax area and we already have excellent service here. I can walk to the corner of Sunset and Fairfax and take a bus(no transfers required) to Pacific Palisades, Beverly Center, Wilshire Blvd.,Westwood and Red line station(5minute trip) on Highland.

Hollywood doesn't yet need a subway extension down Hollywood Blvd to Fairfac to Santa Monica West to Beverly Hills. More importantuly, the Red Line stop at Western and Wilshire needs to be extended all the way down Wilshire to Santa Monica. The Wilshire line should be the number one priority. We in Hollywood could then easily get to the extreme westside by our feeder bus lines connecting to a Wilshire/Fairfax station;also, we could easily connect to the Expo line farther down Fairfax quite easily as well.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Cathy lastName: Des Lauriers organization: address: 1325 N. Genesee Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 25, 2007 Time: 03:24 PM -0700

comment:

Please improve transit on the Westside. I like the subways and light rail, since they don't get stuck in car traffic. I prefer Santa Monica Blvd over Wilshire because it is closer to me. Please put a station in my neighborhood. Santa Monica & Fairfax would be perfect. Fewer transfers are important to me, as is the reliability. Also, more transit at night and weekends.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Thursday, October 25, 2007 11:59 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Htin lastName: Hlebovy organization: self address: 8415 Edmaru Ave city: Whittier state: CA zipcode: 90605 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 25, 2007 Time: 11:59 AM -0700

comment:

SUBWAY along Wilshire Blvd TO WESTWOOD !!!!! It can be extended to the SF Valley or the beach later.

P.S. When are Whittier and Pico Rivera ever going to get a Rapid Transit or rail line ?????

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Gale lastName: Baker organization: address: 1501 Termino Avenue city: Long Beach state: CA zipcode: 90804 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Time: 04:40 PM -0700

comment:

In addition to supporting investing money in subways in general, I strongly support the "subway to the sea" concept along Wilshire all the way to Santa Monica. Among other things, subways are much faster than buses or light rail trains that have to cross intersections with traffic, can hold many more people, and are much more environmentally friendly (no exhaust, no contribution to traffic problems, no loud train noises or unsightly trains and tracks near houses, etc.).

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Allison lastName: Mannos organization: address: city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Time: 12:13 PM -0700

comment:

I believe that a Wilshire rail or subway extension will be the most obvious or best way to serve our needs as Angelenos, even though I also believe that a Santa Monica Blvd. corridor is necessary, as well, but more as a secondary corridor. I think that a Bus only lane is possible and should be the target for Santa Monica in the near future. Bike lanes are also crucial... That's all for now, I don't actually live in West Hollywood, but do take the Santa Monica bus out there a lot...

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From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 12:07 PMTo: [email protected]: Ginny-Marie Case; Clarissa FilgiounSubject: FW: westside extension community mtg. comments

Dear Ms. Mannos: Sorry you ended up at the web site for the Westside Central Service Sector. The web site for the study is www.metro.net/westside. Please click on Contact Us, fill out the form and your comments and click submit. Thanks.

From: Westside Central Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 12:00 PM To: Litvak, Jody Feerst Subject: FW: westside extension community mtg. comments

-----Original Message----- From: Manushkin [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 11:01 AM To: Westside Central Subject: westside extension community mtg. comments

Hi, I got the email and promptly went to the website looking for the comment form, which was supposed to be under the "project website", the only website given was the Westside Sector one, which didn't have a comment form, or the project listed. Anywho, I just wanted to send along my comments, please forward to the appropriate individual... I believe that a Wilshire rail or subway extension will be the most obvious or best way to serve our needs as Angelenos, even though I also believe that a Santa Monica Blvd. corridor is necessary, as well, but more as a secondary corridor. I think that a Bus only lane is possible and should be the target for Santa Monica in the near future. Bike lanes are also crucial... That's all for now, I don't actually live in West Hollywood, but do take the Santa Monica bus out there a lot... Thanks, Allison Mannos

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Gaye lastName: Smith organization: address: 1712 Rotary Drive city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90026 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Time: 09:38 AM -0700

comment:

On Monday and Tuesday (Oct 22, 23) of this week, I waited more than 30 minutes for either a #4 or #704 bus at SM blvd & Ave. of the Stars from 6:30 to 7:05. This is way too long to wait for ANY bus. Also, the #704 buses are very crowded in the morning between 8 and 9 o'clock with many people having to stand in the aisles. This isn't acceptable either because it isn't safe - what would happen if there was a collision?

There needs to be more buses on this route.

Sincerely,

Gaye Smith

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From: Gabriel Sermeno [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 9:37 AMTo: Ginny-Marie CaseCc: Jody Feerst LitvakSubject: Re: Metro Westside Extension: West Hollywood Meeting

Hi Ginny‐Marie, Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend this meeting. Will there be any more additional meetings? By the way, great job with these meetings, I think we'll get some good feedback. Gabriel Sermeno Associate, West L.A. LA Business Team Ph: (213) 978‐0616 Fax: (213) 978‐0780 ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Mayor's Office of Housing & Economic Development 200 N. Spring Street, 13th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90012 http://www.lacity.org/mayor/labt/ >>> "Ginny‐Marie Case" <[email protected]> 10/23/2007 5:56 PM >>>

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Allen lastName: Bleiweiss organization: address: 1334 N Genesee Ave city: Los angeles state: Ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Time: 09:18 AM -0700

comment:

YES we need an extension of the line. YES we need a station at Sunset/Fairfax. YES the line should go all the way to Santa Monica. This should have been done years ago. DONT TALK ABOUT IT. DO IT!!!!!

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Christine lastName: Musselman organization: address: 25286 Michelle Lane city: Moreno Valley state: CA zipcode: 92553 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Time: 08:56 AM -0700

comment:

As a long-time resident of West Hollywood who now lives in Moreno Valley but still works at UCLA, I have the following suggestions for consideration:

-Extend subway along Wilshire all the way to PCH. -Have a stop at Westwood or any of the nearby cross streets. -Work with Metrolink to ensure that schedules include express rides from outlying regions such as the Inland Empire to ensure fuller use of rapid transit.

Thank you.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: amy lastName: raff organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: 90035 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 Time: 08:32 AM -0700

comment:

We are not able to make the meeting but as you know traffic and congestion is only getting worse. L.A> should have a subway like any other big city along wilshire which is the main corridor of the city .From the east to the ocean. A subway that would be clean and safe. Something has to be done soon.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Christopher lastName: Davidson organization: address: 4214 Troost Ave, #14 city: Studio City state: CA zipcode: 91604 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Time: 09:51 PM -0700

comment:

I would like Metro to consider an extension of the Purple Line along Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica. If the subway is too expensive and takes too long, is it still a possibility that a dedicated bus or light rail corridor could be created along Wilshire Boulevard from Wilshire-Western to the Pacific Ocean? In this way, the current 720 line could be replaced either by an above-ground Purple Line or a "Metroliner" bus like the Orange Line, which seems to be a resounding success.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Matt lastName: Petersen organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Time: 09:29 PM -0700

comment:

We need light rail, subway, and dedicated bus lanes - the Westside is in crisis mode from traffic, and air quality is worsening.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Lynn & Bill lastName: Lustig organization: address: Spaulding Square city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Time: 08:54 PM -0700

comment:

1.yes transit needs to be improved. 2.more buses/light rail above ground 3.NO - WE DO NOT WANT A SUBWAY STATION ON SUNSET & FAIRFAX. FURTHER WE DO NOT WANT ANY SUBWAY SYSTEM RUNNING UNDERNEATH OUR RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD!!!!!!!!!

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Lynn & Bill lastName: Lustig organization: address: Spaulding Square city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Time: 08:54 PM -0700

comment:

1.yes transit needs to be improved. 2.more buses/light rail above ground 3.NO - WE DO NOT WANT A SUBWAY STATION ON SUNSET & FAIRFAX. FURTHER I DO NOT WANT ANY SUBWAY SYSTEM RUNNING UNDERNEATH OUR RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD!!!!!!!!!

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Bonnie lastName: Ferron organization: address: 22266 Schoenborn St. city: Canoga Park state: CA zipcode: 91304 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Time: 08:31 PM -0700

comment:

The Olympic option makes more sense to me than running a line along the freeway. However, eventually you need to have the subway go to UCLA. You also need to have a direct line "over the hill" from the Valley to the Westside. Only then will you have a comprehensive system. As well, the Metro Orange Line should trump cross traffic. There's absolutely no reason a bus should have to wait for cars at cross streets. Mass transit should be our priority, not cars.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Michael lastName: Bratkowski organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 91604 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Time: 06:11 PM -0700

comment:

About bloody time! Thank god some one is thinking ahead at MTA. God bless that! Now, the next item on the list should be additional access through the 405 alignment for light rail. Most of the basin now has light rail and subway (thank you for the Red Line very much), so let's get something going from Santa Clarita south along the 405 alignment all the way to LAX...and I mean TO LAX, not NEAR LAX. The El Segundo line should have gone ALL the way TO LAX...not just NEAR the bloomin' airport. Look at London and New York and pretty much every other major world class city. They have subways going TO their airports...not NEAR their airports. Even Vancouver has figured this out and is on the way to having a line completed TO YVR (the airport in Vancouver). Got it?! Hope so! Now DO something about it!

Thanks. :^)

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Jonathan Yee [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 11:23 AMTo: [email protected]: Re: Westside Extension Scoping Meetings

Metro Staff, I was unable to attend the previous scoping meetings, and was wondering if I may be emailed a pdf copy of the powerpoint presentation? Please let me know, thanks. Sincerely, Jonathan Yee Engineer ADVANTEC Consulting Engineers, Inc. 21700 Copley Drive Diamond Bar, CA 91765 Phone: 909-860-6222, Ext. 111 Fax: 909-860-6722 http://www.advantec-usa.com DISCLAIMER: This e-mail and its attachments are for information purpose only. The information in this message is confidential and is not binding on Advantec Consulting Engineers, Inc. until they are confirmed by us. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, or distribution of the message, or any action or omission taken by you in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. Please immediately contact the sender if you have received this message in error. Thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 12:52 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: David lastName: Donald organization: UCLA Student address: 6650 Hayvenhurst Ave #221 city: Van Nuys state: CA zipcode: 91406 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Time: 12:51 AM -0700

comment:

I greatly support the construction of transit in the Westside - traffic is practically unbearable.

I think the Wilshire Blvd route is preferable. It provides a faster route to downtown, which is probably where most users of the line would most want to go. In a perfect world, there would also be a line serving West Hollywood, but I don't think that should be the priority route.

Ideally, the line would continue the Purple Line's heavy rail so that passengers could stay on the same subway cars from the Westside to Downtown, or vice versa. (Because honestly - what good is the Purple Line if it's only 2 stops)

Extension at least to Westwood, to serve UCLA, would be practically necessary. But if possible, the line's extension to Santa Monica would also increase its utility.

On the FAQ page, the transit time from Wilshire/Western to Santa Monica is estimated as 25 minutes for heavy rail and 67 for "Rapid Bus" - does "Rapid Bus" include exclusive right-of-way bus lines like the Orange Line? Is it really that slow? 67 minutes for this distance is so slow that I can't see it getting much greater ridership than the current bus lines serving the same areas - in other words, only those riders with absolutely no alternative transportation.

I appreciate the opportunity to comment.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: j gove [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, October 22, 2007 10:56 PMTo: [email protected]: Hope for a Subway

Hello, My name is John Gove, and I have lived my entire 30 years in the San Gabriel Valley. I am a resident of La Verne and have been for 24 years. My contact information is P.O. Box 2081, Irwindale, CA 91706. On an opening note, I want to say thank you for opening the discussion of a Westside Extension to the users of MTA service and residents of LA County. While most of my local options pertain to buses, I enjoy using rail (especially the Red Line and SCRRA's Metrolink) whenever possible for my excursions into Los Angeles. Seeing that a discussion about two alignments is in progress, I am encouraged to see that the debate about necessity is behind us. Modality is the primary concern and alignment a close second. Though I live on the other side of the county, I believe my tax dollars should be spent on a quality product, not necessarily the cheapest one. Having said that, I believe subway is the far superior mode for two reasons. First, Los Angeles is blessed with freeways; the speed an flexibility that a car provide is amazing, most of the time. However, asking someone to give up flexibility AND speed is a marketing disaster. Fixed rail sacrifices flexibility, but when grade separated, it can out-perform car speeds during crunch periods, when speed is most desireable. At-grade light rail is neither flexible nor speedy. There should be an upside to giving up your car! I despise most of the goldline for it's sluggish pace and relish the redline's speedy trip between Union Station and Hollywood. My friends and I sometimes debate whether we should drive to Union Station from Pasadena and then get on the Red Line. That conversation usually ends with us driving to Hollywood. The Red Line suffers because of the Gold Line's failure. Weak links in the network have trickle down missed opportunities for ridership. Second, a below grade separation is preferable to an above grade option for real estate and neighborhood considerations. I studied in Singapore for 5 months and rode their MRT, which is above grade out of the city center. It is both noisy and obstrusive (though quick). Property valuation and that quintessential perk of a "suburban quality" exposure to a sunny Southern California day would take tangible hits. I heard a symposium of famous photographers who shoot Los Angeles agree that the city is first and foremost a city of homes. That is a quality of life MTA should respect in it's infrastructure considerations. The Westside (and I propose most of the LA Basin)

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have only one quality solution on the table. Subway is the smartest solution. If I am completely honest, I think that side of town could use BOTH subway alignments. To wrap it up, I was reading articles and blogs about the alignment meetings and was impressed by a perspective I heard. A gentleman said the MTA should visualize a master rail web and design these alignments with that in mind, though the complete web may be a generation away. It is frustrating to see each component politicized into an ever expanding non-cohesive product.

Good Luck, John

__________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Leo lastName: Barkhash organization: address: city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90405 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 22, 2007 Time: 02:00 PM -0700

comment:

I just wanted to express my support for the metro line extension to the Westside. I live in Santa Monica and work in Downtown LA and struggle on the freeway every day, the traffic is always bad in both directions! I would happily welcome the opportunity to take the subway to work, if it was an option. Right now we are all clogging up the freeway, since there's no other option for getting to downtown. Thanks!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Megan lastName: Lester organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90049 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 22, 2007 Time: 12:43 PM -0700

comment:

We want a metro on the Westside! Please keep this project moving!!!!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Anthony lastName: Kaan organization: address: 1850 Whitley Ave #1110 city: Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90028 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 22, 2007 Time: 12:22 PM -0700

comment:

Extending both the RED line from Hollywood to Santa Monica, and the PURPLE line down Wilshire all the way to Santa Monica should be major priorities for our city. I would get rid of my car in a second if that was the case. It is the only thing keeping Los Angeles from being a world class city.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Jennifer lastName: Chen organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: 90065 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 22, 2007 Time: 11:44 AM -0700

comment:

I would prefer a subway to the Westside. It really needs to have a stop at UCLA and go all the way to the ocean. A subway versus other modalities will be the best for long-range planning, as it has the highest capacity and will be the least subject to impact from future worsening congestion problems.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Nathan lastName: Johnston organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 22, 2007 Time: 10:17 AM -0700

comment:

I am in strong support of a "subway to the sea". The sooner the better. Stops in Beverly Hills and Century City are musts.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Eileen lastName: McCormack organization: address: 10969 Rochester Ave #209 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 22, 2007 Time: 10:02 AM -0700

comment:

Hello -

As someone who lives about three blocks south of Wilshire, and works right on Wilshire in Westwood, I am enthusiastic about extending the Purple Line west on Wilshire Blvd - all the way to Santa Monica, if possible. To begin with, even an extension to Wilshire & Westwood, so people who live generally on the Westside could go straight downtown would be terrific. But the very idea that I could access a subway a few blocks from home that would take me all over the city is very exciting. My husband works in Beverly Hills, and he also views this extension as a good thing. I think that's something that needs to be pointed out - not only would you have some people who need to traverse the entire city off of the roads and on the subway, but you would also wind up with people who take shorter trips (like Westwood to Beverly Hills) who may also opt for the subway on a fairly regular basis.

I know that the above is a self centered perspective, and I didn't go into my views on the environment or the general traffic & quality of life situation of the denizens of LA, but I know that you have advisors who are truly qualified to offer such opinions. I just wanted to offer the POV of one Westside couple who love the idea of extending the subway west on Wilshire.

Thanks!

Eileen McCormack

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Justin lastName: Urcis organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 22, 2007 Time: 06:48 AM -0700

comment:

Hello: I would like to voice my support for an extension of the Red Line to Santa Monica. This would be vitally important to sustaining LA's stature as an important global city. I can attest firsthand that many young people refuse to move to Los Angeles because of a lack of public transportation options. A subway would have such wonderful positive effects for the city (culturally, socially, economically) that we really must move forward.

Thank you for your consideration.

Justin Urcis

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Marisabel lastName: Almer organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 21, 2007 Time: 05:07 PM -0700

comment:

Please extend the red line subway to the ocean, or as close to it. If it can't be done underground, do it above ground, but something is needed, please!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Christopher lastName: Holloway organization: address: city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90025 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 21, 2007 Time: 01:25 PM -0700

comment:

Please extend the subway (purple and red lines) west to the Westside as soon as possible! It should be made bicycle and bus-connection friendly, as well as having parking structures for commuters using cars. Also, it would be good to connect the two westward lines somewhere with a north-south line, perhaps near Sepulveda.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Austin lastName: Naughton organization: address: PO Box 71391 city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90035 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 21, 2007 Time: 12:28 PM -0700

comment:

I am a Los Angeles resident who commutes from the Century City / Beverly Hills area to my job at Fairfax High School by bicycle.

I am therefore interested in seeing public transit options that are as bicycle-friendly as possible. This would enable us bicyclists to reach Westside destinations and the Pacific Ocean bike paths with greater ease!

As a former resident of Boston and New York, I am in favor of rail routes that are not impacted by street signals/ traffic!

Thanks, Austin Naughton

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Teri lastName: Alexis organization: address: PO Box 12982 city: Marina Del Rey state: CA zipcode: 90295 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 21, 2007 Time: 12:10 PM -0700

comment:

Yes! Please do all you can to make the Metro subway line continue all the way into Santa Monica and also the other one into Culver City!

We Westsiders need a better Eco way to get around the city!

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: davis mikaels [[email protected]]Sent: Sunday, October 21, 2007 9:30 AMTo: [email protected]: Please build Subway to See

To Whom It May Concern; I support the Westside Extension subway/light rail or any form of train you want to build all the way from downtown to the sea... please build it... we need it desperately. This great city won't have a great future if we continue to rely solely on automobiles. I absolutely love Los Angeles... so it hurts to say this... LA is not the greatest city in the world... and that's because of our lack of nimble/quick public transit. However, we can change that... and I believe a subway to the sea will be an amazing start toward the road of becoming the greatest city in the world. Public transit is needed for a successful future. Please don't give up on it. This city supports this endeavor. Make it happen! Davis Mikaels 323.377.3474 mobile

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: R lastName: F organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 21, 2007 Time: 12:55 AM -0700

comment:

Why not include a light rail that goes straight up and down the 405 and also east-west on the 10. Be far more useful than another lane. Also, developing countries like malaysia or china build a subway system in a few years, but we are talking 2015, 2020 to even get a few westward lines? it is kind of pitiful...

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Kelly lastName: Hamm organization: address: 725 29th st. city: Manhattan Beach state: Ca zipcode: 90266 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 Time: 10:27 PM -0700

comment:

re: purple line and subway to the sea. I would love to see a line running through beverly hills to the sea and also from La to the sea. some suggestions however:

1. consider a monorail instead for cost. I know space is at a premium, but a high tech futuristic quiet running monorail would be less expensive than a subway and allow people to ride the train to see the city rather than being in a tunnel. Look for easements above the sidewalk down wilshire and maybe incorporate the line into commercial projects along wilshire. it must be quiet though, and considerate to the neighborhood. Also, more people would ride if they saw a fast train shooting along while they were sitting in their cars.

2. look at automating the trains and getting rid of the drivers to save costs. use computers and make the train as accurate as tokyo. on-time no matter what. . .

3. look at allowing bicycles and riders to have the back car to themselves or at least bicycles on the trains. One car that has bike racks and seats.

4. look at adding a business class section or car. this would be a draw for professionals or people that would like to pay more for a little luxury. Also, allow vendors to operate in the morning on the cars. Maybe allow a coffee vendor on the train.

5. allow companies to bid on wi-fi service on the trains. 6. allow companies to install tv's in the trains. I don't care about watching commercials, on long rides people would appreciate watching shows or news similar to sitting in the doctors office and watching tv. this can be used to generate revenue.

7. highly look at incorporating the current expansion of the 405 with a line going north south. maybe look at placing some foundations or doing preliminary ground work. we need a monorail from the valley west side through the sepulveda pass and to la or the airport.

8. I would like to say also that many times I have considered riding the metro, but I find it takes longer than just driving. why? for one. you need to transfer 4 times to go from manhattan beach to pasadena. you should connect the lines so that trains run from the south bay all the way to pasadena. I know currently you have to get off and wait for another train. how silly though. I'm sure it would take considerable money and work to connect the lines, but all lines should be interconnected so that you can go from one area to another and only have to change trains maybe twice. going north south and then getting on an east west train.

9. back to the 405 metro line. I would highly recommend having a line go along the 405 and having a stop at the airport. this is such a no-brainer. more lines should go directly to the airport without having to transfer trains.

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10. I would allow taxi companies to bid on a service which puts a button on the trains and hails a taxi so that when you show up at a certain station there's a taxi waiting for you to take you the remainder of the way.

11. I would also greatly reduce or lower the taxes that are incurred when taking a taxi. I believe right up front you pay 2.00 just to get into the taxi. Make riding a taxi cheaper so that people ride the train and then taxi the remaining mile or so to work.

11. back to having a train that goes from south bay to pasadena. If all the tracks were computer operated and all the trains could go anywhere, you could then start allow private/public companies the ability to buy train cars and put them into service for certain functions. For example, the UCLA football games. You could have a specially painted UCLA train or trains that could be at the redondo marine station and that takes all the fans to the rose bowl. UCLA may pay a reduce fare or the fans whatever, but more people would ride the train. It would be computer controlled and travel along the rails without a driver. It would go directly to the pasadena station.

14. I have more ideas but I'll leave it at this. I think the website is horrible. I think it can be greatly improved and simplifed. I would also change the name of the metro to something cool like the La monorail or la . . . . metro sounds like a bus.

15. I also have some ideas for the security on the trains. 16. One more note. the trains need to be quiet, like the disneyland monorail. look at adding rubber wheels or some friction reducing elements. Also, look at adding sound barriers outside of the wheels to minimize sound disturbance going through neighborhoods. I wouldn't mind a monorail in my neighborhood if it was quiet. In fact, I think many neighbors would encourage a monorail if it was sleek, futuristic and quiet.

18. another bonus of a monorail which the city of las vegas totally blew it. a monorail can be installed with a glass ceiling so that the ride is spectacular. what a way to draw riders to the monorail. a starlit, city ride on a futuristic high-speed monorail to the ocean. I would take that more often. I really think that if you work with the city of santa monica and offer commercial property owners along wilshire more development rights (higher height limits more useable space, gross area per lot. etc) they would consider allow a monorail to go through a certain portion of their property. The first 10' from their property line back into their property. Imagine from the sidewalk back 10' and also 15' above the street a sleek monorail which cuts through buildings as it meaders to the sea.

thanks for listening Kelly Hamm www.cchomedesign.com 310) 213-7263

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Robert lastName: Finnerty organization: address: 1000 Tellem Drive city: Pacific Palisades state: CA zipcode: 90272 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 Time: 10:22 PM -0700

comment:

The westside urgently needs rapid transit to downtown LA as well as south to LAX. Please do whatever possible to get a subway build along Wilshire Blvd. as quickly as possible. The cost of building this line is much less than the cost to residents from not having it.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: David lastName: Batterson organization: address: city: Whittier state: CA zipcode: 90602 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 Time: 09:03 PM -0700

comment:

Yes, let's build it! This is a no-brainer. And let's put it on a fast track to get it started. As Nike says: "Just Do It." ;-)

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Christine lastName: Musselman organization: address: 25286 Michelle Lane city: Moreno Valley state: CA zipcode: 92553 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 Time: 06:50 PM -0700

comment:

A metro stop at Westwood and Wilshire is vital to pulling the entire southland community together. A major university like UCLA deserves a station, and the sooner the better. Just think of the traffic and parking mitigation if just a portion of the 60,000+ daily visitors to UCLA use the subway instead of drive. In addition, my major hope is that the Metrolink can be more fully used by those of us who live in the Inland Empire but work in Los Angeles, or in my case UCLA. Currently, it's a train that goes nowhere for us as we cannot easily and quickly get to the Westside once we arrive in downtown L.A.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Don lastName: Sveen organization: address: 1 indian rd city: east kingston state: nh zipcode: 03827 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 Time: 05:34 PM -0700

comment:

I lived in LA for 17 years and probably my biggest reason for leaving is the backwardness of the transportation system. It destroys quality of life!!!

Do not listen to the naysayers. They seem to have some bizarre political motivation. The Red Line extension and the Wilshire Subway (purple line) both look beautiful, and would be the next step in making LA truly a first class city. Do whatever it takes, and maybe I'll move back.

p.s. Next go north up the 405 and west all the way on 101 to Woodland Hills, just like the original plan. Whether it's light rail or a subway, just build something!

Sincerely,

Don Sveen

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: [email protected]: Saturday, October 20, 2007 9:55 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: Dravillas organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 Time: 09:54 AM -0700

comment:

Just want to vote 'yes' on any subway to santa monica, although my strong preference would be to extend the red line from hollywood and vine. Thank you for your efforts. John

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Michael Miller [[email protected]]Sent: Saturday, October 20, 2007 5:53 AMTo: [email protected]: Subway to the sea

YES! YES! YES! Build the subway to the Sea. Mike Miller West Los Angeles

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Michelle lastName: Reeves organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 09:51 PM -0700

comment:

I think a subway line is needed on the Westside to reduce traffic. This will also add incentive for people to shop and dine on the Westside without having to worry about driving and parking. Santa Monica Blvd would be the best choice going through West Hollywood and to the beach.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Andre lastName: Morimoto organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 07:59 PM -0700

comment:

The Westside needs help. Build the Subway. Preferably, I like to see not only a Wilshire Extension but a H/Highland extension to meet up with the Wilshire branch. Thank you!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Jonathan lastName: Christie organization: address: 1801 S Wilton Place city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90019 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 07:43 PM -0700

comment:

So if I dont live along the routes who cares. Are you planning any north south routes to involve people that live in Mid Los Angeles?

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Lori lastName: Strickler organization: address: 1930 Holly Drive, 11 C city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90068 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 05:36 PM -0700

comment:

Yes--please build a subway to the sea! I live in Hollywood and commute to my job as a law librarian in Westwood via the metro bus lines 780 & 720/920. It currently takes me approximately 1 hour & 10 minutes to get to work by 9 AM and my commute home at 5:30 or 6 PM is anywhere from 1 hour & 15 minutes to 2 hours in length. The buses are almost always crowded and quite often too full to even pick up any passengers at my stops (Hollywood/Vine, and Fairfax/Wilshire), requiring me to wait 10-30 minutes for another bus. I love public transportation--it's better for the earth and allows me to be productive during my commute but I'd also love to spend more time with my family and less time on the road! Thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Dana lastName: Simmons organization: University of California, Riverside address: 375 E 2nd St #219 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90012 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 04:34 PM -0700

comment:

For L.A. to become a world-class city, it is critical for the Subway to the Sea to be constructed. If Shanghai, Cairo and Portland can do it, so can we.

Dana Simmons, PhD.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Joseph lastName: Chiu organization: address: 555 Manhattan Drive city: Boulder state: CO zipcode: 80303 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 04:28 PM -0700

comment:

I used to work in Beverly Hills, but took a transfer to our Boulder location. I plan to return to the L.A. area in a few years, however, and hope that the Westside Extension is approved by then.

My commute from Pasadena to Beverly Hills was hell, whether by driving or by using Gold Line, Red Line and the Rapid Bus.

One of the things that sours the use of public transit is to wait to connect between two lines. Might I suggest that the Expo and the "Wilshire" lines connect in such a way that the trains can continue all the way and run a loop? Somewhat like the Green Line (Yamanotesen) in Tokyo?

Here's hoping for a future in L.A. with lot less time wasted in traffic!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Ian lastName: Swett organization: address: city: Pasadena state: CA zipcode: 91104 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 03:45 PM -0700

comment:

I would like to strongly support the extension of both the red and especially the purple line all the way to Santa Monica down Wilshire.

I live close to the gold line in Pasadena, but most of the places I would want to go are in Santa Monica and Westwood, so the gold line really isn't that useful to me without connecting lines going to West LA.

-Ian

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Maria lastName: Menendez organization: address: 22 W Green St #204 city: Pasadena state: CA zipcode: 91105 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 02:32 PM -0700

comment:

I think the Wilshire Subway Expansion is a great idea. I use the current metro system and would use it a lot more if the proposed route was built

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Dustin lastName: Davis organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90028 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 02:04 PM -0700

comment:

I am very much in favor of a subway to the beach from downtown and/or Hollywood. Running it past 2 am on weekends would also curb a lot of drunk driving.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Jason lastName: Kligier organization: address: 11948 Darlington Ave #6 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90049 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 01:16 PM -0700

comment:

I fully support a subway along the Wilshire corridor all the way to Santa Monica.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Brad lastName: Brauer organization: address: 217 Moonstone Street city: Manhattan Beach state: CA zipcode: 90266 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 01:12 PM -0700

comment:

I am definitely a proponent of a subway from Santa Monica to downtown, with significant portions under Wilshire Blvd. As a UCLA graduate, I would also recommend a stop near campus to serve the academic community. Thanks for the hard work.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: James lastName: Jackson organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90064 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 01:04 PM -0700

comment:

Yes, please bring a subway to West LA.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Laura lastName: Cohen organization: address: 4500 Murietta Avenue, #4 city: Sherman Oaks state: CA zipcode: 91423-5440 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 12:54 PM -0700

comment:

I've been riding the Red Line for years. I believe extending the Purple Line all the way to the beach is an outstanding idea! Next: What about a Yellow Line running under the 405 Freeway to connect the Purple and Orange Lines? I guarantee it will be the most heavily used subway in human history.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Adam lastName: Rakunas organization: address: 1044 14th Street city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90403 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 12:50 PM -0700

comment:

Please, please, please, for the love of God, bring rail to Santa Monica. Both the Expo Line extension and the Subway to the Sea need to happen, and I will go on record saying that I will gladly accept any tax increases for subway construction to the Westside.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Ellen lastName: Yang organization: address: 506 N. Kilkea Drive city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90048 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 12:27 PM -0700

comment:

I used to live in Echo Park and commuted the 10/110 freeways to my work in Santa Monica for two full years. After spending on average 2-3 hours on the road everyday (the worst was 2 1/2 hours coming home on a Friday) I've come to realize that the traffic is crippling the city of Los Angeles and without a sound subway system, traffic will only get worse. (I tried taking the bus on numerous occasions and could not get the commute to less than 3 hours round trip.) Please, Los Angeles needs a subway system deseperately! It's the only viable long term solution. I'm glad to hear that the extension of the purple line down Wilshire is mostly unopposed. I'd also argue that the red line extension should run down Santa Monica. Having it run down Sunset would be too far North for the many people who live farther South, such as on Beverly or 3rd. Whereas Santa Monica is a nice compromise; people on Sunset could walk down to Santa Monica and people south of SM could walk up.

Thanks for receiving my input. You have the full support of Angelenos.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Katharine lastName: Lisiewicz organization: address: 3541 Keystone Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90034 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 12:15 PM -0700

comment:

Please bring rail and subway to the Westside, and please make both bike-friendly. There needs to be a way to transport bikes on any kind of train, and a way to store them securely at stations.

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From: [email protected]: Friday, October 19, 2007 11:48 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Andrew lastName: Maximous organization: City of Santa Monica address: 3160 S Barrington city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90066 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 11:47 AM -0700

comment:

It would be a hughe mistake to implement a bus mode on theses corridors. I think that an extended subway line is the best alternative because it does not require additional R/W or widening.

The Metro Rapid busses are always stuck on Wilshire with the grid-locked cars. Why not REWARD transit users by giving them a rail line with a highly reliable schedule and by-passes all of the traffic at all times and on every day of the week.

The Wilshire alignment should be implemented first due to the high densities along the corridor. The corridor should go beyond the VA and into West Los Angeles and Santa Monica to help workers get to their jobs in the area.

A parking structure at the VA would be good for commuters using the 405 to use instead of paying or finding parking at their job locations in BH, WLA, SM and beyond. This structure can also be the new Westwood hub for the LAX Flyaway service instead of the current limited use of the UCLA lot 32.

Thank you for your time.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: rachel lastName: castignoli organization: address: 278 c ave city: coronado state: ca zipcode: 92118 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 11:45 AM -0700

comment:

I keep a winter home in Pasadena and I like taking the Gold Line, please add the west-side extension so I can go to the beach. Also add a dodgers stop.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Seanine lastName: Bird organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 11:22 AM -0700

comment:

I would love to be able to get from home (wilshire near bundy) to work (universal studios) without having to get into my car. All the current transit options would just take me longer. This route would be a fantastic way to open up the transit system in an efficient and effective manner.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: matt lastName: lucero organization: n/a address: 3405 holyoke dr city: los angeles state: ca zipcode: 90065 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 19, 2007 Time: 10:57 AM -0700

comment:

We need a subway now, not a temporary solution of expanding highways or bigger, and more buses to further clog our freeway and streets.

Our current subway is inefficient for our commuting needs. It is not very bicycle friendly as more and more commuters are biking in from the east side of Los Angeles and downtown to Mid-Wilshire and the west side.

In the coming years, with the growth of downtown Los Angeles, traffic will be far worse than it is today. And if we do not plan for this shift, we are going to be forced to move due to overcrowding, contrary to the hopes of the city.

Why are we the last major city to not have efficient transportation, and by efficient transportation I mean a working subway system? I am ashamed to say that I live and commute in L.A.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Roberta lastName: O'Donnell organization: Wilshire Park Association, President address: 666 S. Bronson Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90005 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 18, 2007 Time: 06:20 PM -0700

comment:

I live one short block from Wilshire and Crenshaw. I personally use the bus/subway system frequently, my 23-year-old son and 20-year-old daughter are both 100% transit dependent, and my daughter commutes from her home in Long Beach to Los Angeles via the train twice/week. We are completely for better public transit - the bus rides are brutal - the passengers are abusive to each other and the drivers and are frequently violent; the service is spotty and slow; and the facilities, especially the subway station at Wilshire/Western, are filthy, populated by people selling counterfeit goods, lying comatose on the sidewalk and demanding handouts -there is no security that anyone can see. It all needs improvement. However, the one thing I really don't want to see is a transit station at Wilshire and Crenshaw. First, this is not a "destination" - it doesn't have thousands of jobs, it has zero retail (by careful design and planning); it is a low density, largely single-family-home neighborhood, and is all either established or developing HPOZs for several miles in every direction. After decades of hard work to preserve the area and protect it from the kind of development that has made Koreatown what it is, this station would be the last thing that would be welcome by the community here - keep the stations out of residential areas. Second, when people get off the Crenshaw Rapid at Wilshire, they head immediately to Western, where all the real connections are, and from there, you can get everywhere in the City, from Hollywood to Pasadena to Long Beach and beyond. If the Crenshaw line ended up at Western and Wilshire, it would be far more useful. Third, Wilshire and Western is probably less than a mile away - too close for Wilshire and Crenshaw to be a good choice. Finally, many of the speakers at the meeting on Tuesday accused the community at large of being elitist and racist- I personally feel that any person who accuses an entire community, made up of individuals they have never met, of one of the worst and most immora

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Roberta lastName: O'Donnell organization: Wilshire Park Association, President address: 666h Bronson Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90005 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 18, 2007 Time: 06:16 PM -0700

comment:

I live one short block from Wilshire and Crenshaw. I personally use the bus/subway system frequently, my 23-year-old son and 20-year-old daughter are both 100% transit dependent, and my daughter commutes from her home in Long Beach to Los Angeles via the train twice/week. We are completely for better public transit - the bus rides are brutal - the passengers are abusive to each other and the drivers and are frequently violent; the service is spotty and slow; and the facilities, especially the subway station at Wilshire/Western, are filthy, populated by people selling counterfeit goods, lying comatose on the sidewalk and demanding handouts -there is no security that anyone can see. It all needs improvement. However, the one thing I really don't want to see is a transit station at Wilshire and Crenshaw. First, this is not a "destination" - it doesn't have thousands of jobs, it has zero retail (by careful design and planning); it is a low density, largely single-family-home neighborhood, and is all either established or developing HPOZs for several miles in every direction. After decades of hard work to preserve the area and protect it from the kind of development that has made Koreatown what it is, this station would be the last thing that would be welcome by the community here - keep the stations out of residential areas. Second, when people get off the Crenshaw Rapid at Wilshire, they head immediately to Western, where all the real connections are, and from there, you can get everywhere in the City, from Hollywood to Pasadena to Long Beach and beyond. If the Crenshaw line ended up at Western and Wilshire, it would be far more useful. Third, Wilshire and Western is probably less than a mile away - too close for Wilshire and Crenshaw to be a good choice. Finally, many of the speakers at the meeting on Tuesday accused the community at large of being elitist and racist- I personally feel that any person who accuses an entire community, made up of individuals they have never met, of one of the worst and most immora

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: simon lastName: halls organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 18, 2007 Time: 12:20 PM -0700

comment:

i oppose the building of a station at sunset and fairfax...i also oppose any tunnelling under my residential neighborhood at sunset and fairfax. i strongly urge you to move said station down to santa monican and fairfax, which is a much more commercial zone...

thanks

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Bonnie lastName: Sikowitz organization: Sunset Square Neighborhood Org. address: 1601 N. Orange Grove AVe. city: L.A. state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 18, 2007 Time: 11:53 AM -0700

comment:

I OPPOSE the Northern or "Santa Monica Alignment." And I STRONGLY OPPOSE a stop at Fairfax and Sunset. If one of the evaluation criteria is community acceptability, our community of single-family historic residences between La Brea and Fairfax DOES NOT FIND THIS ACCEPTABLE.

I GREATLY FAVOR THE WILSHIRE ROUTE.

IF THE "SANTA MONICA ALIGNMENT" is studied, IT SHOULD BE ROUTED ALONG COMMERCIAL SREETS ONLY. VIA LA BREA TO SANTA MONICA W/ STOPS ON SANTA MONICA.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Eric lastName: Tooley organization: EricTooleyDesign.com address: 1741 Maltman Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90026 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 18, 2007 Time: 09:49 AM -0700

comment:

I think that both the Red and the Purple lines should be extended to Santa Monica. If I had to choose I would extend the Red line from Hollywood first and maybe later on the Purple line. I don't see why bond money could not be raised to fund this urgently needed project.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: shawn lastName: kumar organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 11:09 PM -0700

comment:

I would like to see a study of the purple line under wilshire boulevard to the sea, be studied. i think this project is the most vital infrastructure project in southern california.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: lynn lastName: lustig organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 09:51 PM -0700

comment:

Tunnels for extension of underground subway system should be restricted to running underneath major streets and not through residential areas.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Ryan lastName: Snyder organization: address: 431 S. Burnside Avenue #10c city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90036 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 07:29 PM -0700

comment:

I favor BRT with dedicated bus lanes along Wilshire Blvd. and west side other streets. This would be far more cost-effective that any type of rail. It will leave money available to improve more than one line as well. Also, some of the earlier concepts involve bus turnouts. These make it difficult for buses to re-enter traffic. They also take sidewalk space. I prefer normal curbside boarding or center lane boarding. I also prefer bus bulbs to pullouts.

Thanks.

Ryan Snyder

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 2:50 PMTo: Clarissa Filgioun; Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

And another one . . . ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 1:25 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Neel lastName: Sodha organization: address: city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90015 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 01:25 PM ‐0700 comment: My suggestions: Wilshire corrider (extension of the Purple Line) ‐ subway all the way to 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica having a direct connection to the Expo Line's terminus. Preferably a subway station like that of 7th Street/Metro. Ensure a Purple Line stop at Constellation/Avenue of the Stars in Century City. Pink Line: Continue from Hollywood/Highway towards Santa Monica Blvd and make major stops at La Brea & La Cienega. Head south towards a connecting station at Century City with the Purple Line. Head further south to a new terminus at Venice Beach. Underground all the way as the corrider is heavily developed and will continue more development.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 2:50 PMTo: Clarissa Filgioun; Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

Categories: we

And another one . . . ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 1:25 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Neel lastName: Sodha organization: address: city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90015 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 01:25 PM ‐0700 comment: My suggestions: Wilshire corrider (extension of the Purple Line) ‐ subway all the way to 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica having a direct connection to the Expo Line's terminus. Preferably a subway station like that of 7th Street/Metro. Ensure a Purple Line stop at Constellation/Avenue of the Stars in Century City. Pink Line: Continue from Hollywood/Highway towards Santa Monica Blvd and make major stops at La Brea & La Cienega. Head south towards a connecting station at Century City with the Purple Line. Head further south to a new terminus at Venice Beach. Underground all the way as the corrider is heavily developed and will continue more development.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: amy lastName: aquino organization: homeowner; member local traffic committees address: po box 461653 city: la state: ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 12:39 PM -0700

comment:

I live north of sunset, on Curson, in a landmarked 1915 bungalow among many lovely older homes. I am also very active in traffic issues and a huge supporter of the extension. I assume that exhaustive analysis would be done before doing anything that might endanger our historic neighborhood, correct? And I would like to know if it is feasible to run it in part along the old trolley route from Hollywood/LaBrea to Santa Monica/FairfaxBlvd? This land is still undeveloped in areas, and where it is the buildings are (perforce) newer and doubtless sturdier and more flexible.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Matthew lastName: Hetz organization: address: city: Los Angeles state: Ca zipcode: 90045 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 11:47 AM -0700

comment:

I am a longtime transit rider and advocate. From my personal experiences, I prefer rail over the bus, but I realize that with the costs involved in rail, and the sprawl of the city, buses will remain the backbone of the mass transit system. However, rail offers the riders a much better ride, and are more fuel efficient which means less pollution and less global warming gases.

I also favor subway as it is the fastest form of mass transit since it, obviously, does not have to worry about road crossings.

I am against transit systems which are completely elevated, they would seem to be very risky in the earthquake country of Southern California. If, and when, a major temblor strikes here, I would think it is much cheaper, and faster, to repair rails on the ground than to repair elevated sections of a mass transit system. Also, my personal observation notes that subways do not seeem to sustain great damage in earthquakes: In the 1985 Mexico City earthquake the subway system was used as an emergency command center. BART was soon running again after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake whereas the freeway collapsed and the bay bridge was badly damaged. Our own subway was operating shortly after the 1994 Northridge earthquake.

Traffic is only getting worse, and there is the dire need to reduce air pollution and global warming gases from vehicles. I believe we must quickly build transit systems with known and tested technologies and not get stuck on looking for alternatives.

Thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Dairenn lastName: Lombard organization: address: 4112 1/2 Halldale Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90062 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 10:28 AM -0700

comment:

Hello,

I would like to see the Purple line extended all the way into Santa Monica via Wilshire Blvd. if possible. I would also like to see the new Expo line that is being built ran to the same terminus, possibly even to the same station so that you could take an elevator, perhaps, down to the subway. I would be strongly opposed to any new BRT solutions. It is not scalable, is not as environmentally friendly (CNG still produces CO2, the "global warming" gas, unlike use of electric train sets, which can at least be partially powered by cleaner sources of energy, such as Nuclear some day). There are capacity problems, infrastructure issues (rubber tires beating up the roadway surface, the beaten up roadway surface wearing out the tires and suspension systems on the busses, the BRT coach vehicles are NOT level with station platforms, and thus cannot board wheelchairs without ramps, etc).

I also think that in the future, a I-405 viaduct train should be considered for connecting LAX to the valley, and possibly an LRT re-build of the Orange line. Thank you for reading this.

Best regards, Dairenn

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Erika lastName: Herman organization: address: city: state: Ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Time: 09:45 AM -0700

comment:

I am unable to attend the meetings today and tomorrow regarding the Westside extension program, but I am excited about the prospect. Better, expanded public transportation routes are JUST what Los Angeles--especially the Westside--needs. I grew up on the Westside, and know that I wished MANY times for better public transportation there. Please make this happen!!

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Lara Cody [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 10:41 PMTo: [email protected]: Sunset Square

I am a Sunset Square homeowner, and although I favor a Westside expansion, to do so under our neighborhood is something I disagree with. Our homes are quite old, and even though we are in the center of the city, there exists a neighborhood calm. Perhaps a route under a major thoroughfare would make more sense. Highland to Santa Monica for instance. Please keep me informed as to any developments. Thank you, Lara Cody Curci 1533 N. Orange Grove Ave. L.A. 90046 323-436-0048 [email protected]

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Hani lastName: Alexander organization: address: 452 S. Sherbourne Drive city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90048 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Time: 09:31 PM -0700

comment:

I fully support the subway extension, under wilshire all the way to the ocean. I am a single-family home owner who lives 2 blocks north of wilshire btw robertson / la cienega and would use this line extensively both west and east.

Hani

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Doug lastName: Painter organization: Committee Member, Sunset Square Homeowners Association address: 1620 N Genesee Ave city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Time: 09:19 PM -0700

comment:

As a resident of and homeowner in Sunset Square (the area north of Spaulding Square where the proposed subway extension is being proposed), I FULLY SUPPORT THE PROPOSED WESTSIDE EXTENSION PROVIDED A COMPLETE STUDY IS DONE REGARDING POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPACTS ON THE NEIGHBORHOOD WITH EACH PROPOSED ALTERNATIVE ROUTING. THERE ARE MANY RESIDENTS WHO WANT A SUBWAY STOP HERE BUT WHO FEAR THAT THEIR HISTORIC HOMES MAY BE MORE VULNERABLE TO FOUNDATION PROBLEMS, AND WE NEED YOUR ASSURANCES THAT THEY ARE NOT.

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From: Doug Segal [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 8:54 PMTo: [email protected]: Proposed Route

To Whom It May Concern:

I'm all in favor of extending the Los Angeles subway to the West side.

However, as a resident of Sunset Square (North Orange Grove between Sunset and Hollywood), I'm very concerned about that route passing under our homes. There are a number of reasons including noise, vibration, safety, loss of value, etc.

It would seem a more natural route to have the subway travel under Hollywood Blvd. to La Brea and then follow La Brea down to Sunset and then under Sunset to Fairfax or drop below Sunset if desired. By following this route, there would be little to no residential impact and the subway would follow the natural course of the commercial streets.

Thank you for your consideration regarding this.

Best,

Douglas Segal

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Julia lastName: Mason organization: address: 1601 N. Sierra Bonita city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Time: 05:35 PM -0700

comment:

I believe any tunneling should be done under major arteries, such as Wilshire Blvd. There is existing, convenient north south transportation on Fairfax, La Cienega, etc. The tunnel could then follow Highland over the canyon to the north. The area north of Santa Monica Blvd. is full of older houses such as mine, which was built in 1911 and many of them have unreinforced masonry foundations which is a seismically unsafe construction and therefore unsuited to heavy tunneling and drilling underneath. Common sense suggests that any tunneling be done where the existing structures are more likely to be stable.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: alyssa lastName: phaneuf organization: address: 517 victoria ave city: venice state: ca zipcode: 90291 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Time: 05:28 PM -0700

comment:

I am strongly in favor of the subway to the sea. I am not able to attend the outreach meetings, but please keep me on your list so I can continue to express my support.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Litvak, Jody Feerst [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 2:51 PMTo: Westside ExtensionSubject: FW: Questions about the Westside

From: MEDIA RELATIONS Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 2:31 PM To: Litvak, Jody Feerst Subject: FW: Questions about the Westside

Jody…FYI, got this e-mail through our pressroom web page. Rick Jager Metro Media Relations

From: Mike's SBC acct [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 2:22 PM To: MEDIA RELATIONS Subject: Questions about the Westside Hi: I'm not sure if you guys are the right guys to speak with on this. If not, please advise me as to who is. After looking over some of the planning paperwork you guys have put out, it appears to me that the Westside is being left out in the cold, mass transit-wise. The congestion in Century City and West LA is getting worse and worse, what with more office space being added. Carpool lanes will not help. It seems to me that the best solution is a subway line from Valencia through to LAX, using the 405 as its corridor. That would be a great solution. Even better would be to have it swing over towards Century City. I have not been able to find any contact info for the planning dept. The Red Line to downtown LA has really helped the 101 corridor. The 101, while not fast, is tolerable. Any information to help solve Century City congestion would be great, and I don't mean just van pools and stuff. Those are ok, but aren't a real solution, as they don't add actual transportation capacity. They still rely on already established corridors of transport. Thank you for any attention on this matter. Cheers, Michael Bratkowski Studio City, CA

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Steven lastName: Metz organization: Curson and Sunset Neighborhood watch address: 1530 N. curson ave city: LA state: ca zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Time: 02:41 PM -0700

comment:

I am wondering if you will please put an access point at fairfax and sunset. I am completely in favor of a subway here.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Mike lastName: Sikowitz organization: Sunset Square Neighborhood Organization address: 1601 N. Orange Grove Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Time: 12:29 PM -0700

comment:

I strongly oppose tunneling under the historic single-family residence neighborhood between Sunset and Hollywood Blvd./ La Brea and Fairfax Blvd. As there are numerous other ways to route the expansion under commercial streets (i.e. Sunset, La Brea, Santa Monica,) the disruption and damage to one of the last great single-family pedestrian neighborhoods in Los Angeles seems TOTALLY UNNECESSARY.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Brandon lastName: Reese organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Time: 11:11 AM -0700

comment:

When considering the subway extension to Santa Monica, I believe that express tracks should be seriously considered as it 12 miles from the coast to the current terminus at Wilshire/Western.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, October 15, 2007 12:20 PMTo: Clarissa Filgioun; Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

More from the web. ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, October 15, 2007 11:46 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Andrew lastName: Mollner organization: address: 1120 1/2 S Doheny Dr city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90035 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 15, 2007 Time: 11:45 AM ‐0700 comment: I feel the expansion of the existing red line to connect both Century City and Westwood/Santa Monica with downtown would have a huge impact on traffic/congestion in Los Angeles and should be one of MTA's highest priorities. As someone who used the Gold Line in the past, I am not convinced that at‐grade rail is a viable option because of slower train speeds and competition with automobile traffic. I would love to see more above‐grade rail lines because the weather in Los Angeles is so nice, I think people would enjoy riding Metro more on an above‐grade than below‐grade rail line.

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From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, October 15, 2007 12:20 PMTo: Clarissa Filgioun; Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

Categories: we

More from the web. ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, October 15, 2007 11:46 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Andrew lastName: Mollner organization: address: 1120 1/2 S Doheny Dr city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90035 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 15, 2007 Time: 11:45 AM ‐0700 comment: I feel the expansion of the existing red line to connect both Century City and Westwood/Santa Monica with downtown would have a huge impact on traffic/congestion in Los Angeles and should be one of MTA's highest priorities. As someone who used the Gold Line in the past, I am not convinced that at‐grade rail is a viable option because of slower train speeds and competition with automobile traffic. I would love to see more above‐grade rail lines because the weather in Los Angeles is so nice, I think people would enjoy riding Metro more on an above‐grade than below‐grade rail line.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Gaile lastName: Krause organization: Mount St. Mary's College address: 8711 Falmouth Ave. #101 city: Playa del Rey state: ca zipcode: 90293 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 14, 2007 Time: 03:38 PM -0700

comment:

I am happy to see a westside extension being considered. Having it come as close to Playa del Rey as possible would make it more convenient. I also hope you consider bringing back the Line 625 bus thru Playa del Rey. Maybe that could connect with a westside extension.

I have had good experiences on the Blue/Green/Gold/Red lines, but it takes too long to get where I need to go from home. I do use it occasionally. I hope you are also considering an extension/station between USC and Mount St. Mary's College and Trade Tech. Thank you.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Erik lastName: Sanjurjo organization: Hollywood United Neighborhood Council address: 1820 canyon drive #103 city: los angeles state: ca zipcode: 90028 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 13, 2007 Time: 06:35 PM -0700

comment:

You have the wrong link up for the map of the area being considered for the red line extension/purple line. Your link goes to the proposed downtown connector line.

Might make sense to include a link to Beverly Hills and West Hollywood's proposed lines, both of which run along Wilshire along with through their respective cities.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Victoria lastName: Butler-Sloss organization: address: 123 N.Wilton Place city: los Angeles state: cA zipcode: 90004 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 13, 2007 Time: 01:31 PM -0700

comment:

I would like to fill out a questionnnaire, thanks vix Subway is the way to go. All the way to the beach from downtown- the way it was envisioned originally.A station every few blocks so you get pedestrians and business picks up.A bus that does the same route and an interchangable ticket for all transport- a pass. Look at London UK.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: John lastName: Sundnes organization: address: 431 N. Hayworth Ave. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90048 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 13, 2007 Time: 01:29 PM -0700

comment:

Los Angeles's lack of a comprehensive mass transit system is a total embarrasment. The only meaningful environmental study on whether to proceed or not is the potential reduction in Carbon emissions, which is extreme if the project moves forward. Please do not listen to any other silly arguments that are secondary in importance. Los Angeles needs to finish the Mass Transit system. We are all tired of the repeated embarrasments like - failing to complete the green line to the Air Port, allowing the old red line tracks to be pulled up, failing to charge money for riding the subway (no turnstiles or modern ticket machines), failing to sell advertisement space to private comanies throughtout the system, stopping lines short of their useful routes. We are the only large city in the civilized world without a completed mass transit system. Please stop the wait, and FINISH LOS ANGELES. If you don't, you are harming your OWN kids futures.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Victoria lastName: Butler-Sloss organization: address: 123 N.Wilton Place city: los Angeles state: cA zipcode: 90004 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 13, 2007 Time: 01:27 PM -0700

comment:

I would like to fill out a questionnnaire, thanks vix

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Victoria lastName: Butler-Sloss organization: address: 123 N.Wilton Place city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90004 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, October 13, 2007 Time: 01:25 PM -0700

comment:

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Simon lastName: lee organization: none address: none city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 11:21 PM -0700

comment:

ATM should build more subways all over LA as much as any cities in Asia or Europ, so people don't need to drive.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Roger lastName: Yu organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 05:39 PM -0700

comment:

Yes! Let's bring the rail to the westside.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Albert lastName: Chung organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 05:01 PM -0700

comment:

It seems the study area map (http://www.metro.net/projects_programs/westside/Study%20Area%20Map.pdf) of the Westside Extension Transit Corridor Project doesn't match the description of the text?

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Web lastName: Master organization: Metro address: 1 Gateway Plaza city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 04:42 PM -0700

comment:

This is a test

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Megan lastName: D organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 02:45 PM -0700

comment:

the new routes are a much needed addition to LA. Any plans for north-south routes connecting the 2?

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Edward lastName: Anastas organization: address: 1336 Oak St Apt A city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90405 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 01:02 PM -0700

comment:

Metro Westside Extension Transit Corridor - Comment Form Emerson Middle School Meeting - October 9th, 2007

Edward Anastas 1336 Oak St Apt A Santa Monica, CA 90405 phone: 310 452-7452 [email protected]

COMMENTS:

I was born and raised here in Los Angeles and I have to say that I am embarrassed about the condition of our city. People LAUGH about our situation when I discuss Los Angeles. Yes, we are a JOKE! It is an absolute outrage that we have not been working on doing more! and now, this meeting/study is all we have to show for! Someone should be fire for this extreme level of incompetence and negligence!

Even this process that you are talking about is not a solution. It is only a study that will probably take upwards of a year and then once it is done it still may not result in any funding from the Federal government! We know all too well after Katrina that we cannot rely on our Federal government to get us out of this mess. We need to make it a priority and take action from many different angles, lastly being from Federal funding. COME ONE PEOPLE! WAKE UP! We need 1) State funding, 2) Federal funding, 3) Alternative private funding options... and NOT ONE LESS. We need to look into all of these options and get them all going simultaneously. You have to realize we are trying to catch up now. We were behind when were working on the red line down Wilshire and now we are not just behind, we are pathetic!

I have lived in New York City (three years), Europe (9 months), and traveled to some of the most important transportation capitals of the world, like Curitiba Brazil, Paris, Dublin, Basil, Milan, Madrid, London, Tokyo and locally San Francisco, Chicago, Seattle, Boston etc., etc. I have experienced the gamut of transportation options in addition to studying Urban Design at Columbia University.

Gas companies have had record profits, why... because the corporate model is designed to make money... THAT'S IT! not to look out for our interests. Along with the car companies they sabotaged our public transit systems early on and left us with no other choices than gas guzzling cars! We need to make them pay for the transit that these corporations destroyed by taxing their profits. We need at least a 50% tax on their profits which would be just a start in recovering our transit systems. Exxon alone made $10 Billion dollar profits in 2005, let alone the others like BP and the car companies as well over the last decade.

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Although I am not representing Cycle Santa Monica (http://cyclesantamonica.blogspot.com), I am a member. I want to bring up the importance of bicycle transportation by looking at Berlin who is trying to have 14% of their commuters on bikes! (see attachment A) They are doing this using dedicated bike ways and several other means. Lyon France has been using a Velov bike sharing system (see attachment B) for several years and several other cities are already investing in this same system.

I also STRONGLY, STRONGLY! support MONORAILS, because of the cost comparison and time it takes to get them implemented.

We need incentives for living close to our work, NOW! We should receive tax breaks for living close to work and a lot of breaks to make people wake up! match Pasadena's $500 rebate on electric bikes! It would be very easy to get our city to be way greener and use public transit more if we didn't all live an hour from our work.

There should also be penalties for driving too far to work and we need to put a ban on funding for new highway construction. It has been proven throughout the world that making it easier for cars will only promote them. Take a look at Copenhagen how they don't allow car transport through certain areas of the city, only delivery trucks. As you approach the central axis of the city you cannot pass through the main street, but rather are required to go around. I know this may seem counterintuitive, but making traffic worse is really going to be the only way to wake people up to public transit, as it has done for this study, but it can get much worse.

GENERAL COMMENTS:

▫ NY city has $11.6 Billion dollars worth of transit projects in planning. WHY DON'T WE HAVE THIS BUDGET! ? Where are our priorities.

▫ For cross town traffic implement overhead electric street cars, Circular Monorail systems, and very importantly! Bike sharing systems (see Velov bike sharing below).

▫ Please read the article attached on Berlin Bike City (http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/07/bike_city_berli.php).

▫ Velov Bike Sharing system for local and cross town traffic has reduced car traffic in Lyon by 10%! (video - http://publish.vx.roo.com/sbs/portal/?channel=Best+of+Dateline&clipId=1207_59976&bt=NS&bp=MAC&bst=FF&biec=false).

▫ Pasadena gives $500 rebate on electric bikes. I have owned an electric bike since January now and with the electric assist, there is no excuses... Anyone can ride them easier than a regular bike.

▫ Support this type of transit with dedicated bike routes like Pear St near Ocean Park and Broadway (bike lanes).

▫ Tax breaks for living close to work. ▫ Monorails = faster implementation and cheaper budget. Integrated with a suspended monorail system, we can use the structure above to provide ideal wind and solar power generators (http://pacwind.net).

SHOULD THERE BE A NEW TRANSIT ALTERNATIVE TO SERVE THE WESTSIDE? Of course! But I found it amazing that we are only focusing on the more wealthy areas of the city! We need to implement this throughout the city ASAP!

DO YOU WANT A STATION IN YOUR COMMUNITY? This question is extremely naive in my opinion! Of course everyone wants a stop in their community! So get started, anywhere you can, just do it. I will move to a station in one month if I really want to be by one.

WHAT'S IMPORTANT TO YOU IN EVALUATING OPTIONS? TIME!!!! How fast and how many can you get under construction as quickly as possible?

WHAT MODE OR ALIGNMENT DO YOU WANT STUDIED? I was fortunate enough to have a meeting with the transportation department of the city of Milan. One of the important realizations that I came out of that meeting with was that THE CITY CHANGES AROUND TRANSPORTATON! and it changes MUCH FASTER THAN YOU THINK! once a transit hub is indicated for an intersection, it will take a matter of a couple years to develop the

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housing and mixed use commercial around that node. In many cases this can happen simultaneously with the construction of the transit lines. These new transit options do not need to be surgically implanted in the city. Select routes that can be implemented faster! that is the priority. Venice is an excellent option for that. Please see my additional comments bulleted below.

▫ We should be building both options of the Purple line and many many more!! ▫ We NEED a Sepulveda Monorail line from the Valley through to LAX and down to Orange County. ▫ We need some transit option down Ventura Blvd from Thousand oaks to the red line. This one probably needs to be a subway.

▫ We need local cross town street cars (see Dublin Ireland... very high tech examples) to get people used to transit and to be able to take local trips over local distances.

▫ The Expo line is too close to the Purple line. This should come down Venice Blvd and stimulate growth there as well. We cannot think about Santa Monica only. Ultimately this will need to cross the entire city. Spread these out, don't waist our resources.

▫ The Purple line should not end at the Ocean! For now the project can stop at the ocean, but consider future expansion direction down to Venice and onwards.

I really hope this is not all you guys have! We cannot rest our hopes on a study! We need to get moving. Move to the private sector for funding. Give them a cut of the fares until they are paid off, whatever it takes.

Sincerely, Edward Anastas

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Gary lastName: Drucker organization: 25 year homeowner at address below address: 107 North Martel Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90036 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 11:38 AM -0700

comment:

I attended last evening's presentation at Pan Pacific Park. My reaction is that the best mode and route is 1) subway down Wilshire Blvd. and certainly to a Santa Monica City terminus. 2) The city badly needs north-south routes, too. Without these, we will never have a high-speed transportation system that will be effectively utilized. Most importantly, there needs to be something along the San Diego Freeway. Light rail might be most affordable and adequate there. A secondary north-south route should be La Cienega or Fairfax into La Cienega. This one would need to utilize some kind of elevated light rail, like the Gold Line, due to the heavy auto traffic. In short, I'm pro-urban. If I wanted to live a more suburban life, I could sell my home for a good amount and move far away. It's also my impression that most people in this neighborhood are urban-oriented. I look forward to my wife and I getting by with one car once we retire with the back-up of a superior public transporation system. Thanks for the opportunity to comment.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Joseph lastName: Hastings organization: address: 1118 10th St. #3 city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90403 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 11:22 AM -0700

comment:

I was unable to attend the meetings regarding the westside extension. I would like to offer the following comments: 1. We have proven that buses do not work in Los Angeles, since the bus has to fight through the same traffic and stoplights as automobiles do.

2. Bringing clean, quick, and efficient rail transportation is the single best way to improve the quality of life for many angelenos.

3. The long-term financial benefits in terms of saved time, decreased pollution, and the stimulus to local economies will far outweigh the admittedly large short-term investment in rail. I for one would be willing to pay an additional tax for that investment.

Thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Roxane lastName: Stern organization: address: 11053 Strathmore Dr city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 12, 2007 Time: 08:25 AM -0700

comment:

I am a resident of Los Angeles and live in Westwood Village. The congestion in my neighborhood is getting worse every day. As it is, just driving across Wilshire Blvd. can be a time consuming exercise. We must provide better ways to move people.

Cars and bigger freeways don’t make any difference. So, alternative means must be created. Subways that link to each other and go to places that people want and need to go will be the first step in addressing this problem. Is Wilshire corridor better than Santa Monica?

No, but Santa Monica is not better than Wilshire. We need both lines to more people in less time NOW. Meanwhile we should be developing more transportation options. First, the Orange line buses are very well used in the valley and should be implemented in the city. Again they move people faster than a car can. Don’t worry about parking spaces for commuters. With a comprehensive public transit system in place people will be able to leave their cars at home.

If building 2 subway lines is not feasible then make one corridor a light rail operation. I don’t know this, but I suspect fewer homes and business would have to moved if we go underground. Light rail must be cheaper, but it comes with a high price tag of displacing many people where they live or work.

You have a timetable which I know cannot be speeded up, but time is of the essence. There is gridlock on the streets and the freeways. The pollution from all the cars is not healthy so we need relief and we need it now.

I grew up in the Valley. I remember talking about the monorail that was going to connect LA with San Francisco. That was 50 years ago!

I lived in Virginia the entire time that a metro system was built in the Washington DC area. When completed, it changed many lives as commuting times were cut down, traffic was helped by so many cars off the road (unfortunately there are still a lot of cars out there) and it was an efficient and economical way to travel.

That can happen here, too. We must go forward to improve our travels in Los Angeles. Please do everything you can to make our city more livable. Thank you, Roxane Stern

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Robert Davenport [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, October 11, 2007 5:24 PMTo: [email protected]: Extension of Metro

It should go to UCLA.

It should go the airport.

It should stop at the Hollywood Bowl.

How hard is this?

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Linda lastName: Green organization: address: Lorraine & 6th city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90005 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 11, 2007 Time: 01:00 PM -0700

comment:

I am 100% for the subway running down Wilshire to the beach, no other alternative would benefit me. I cannot make the meetings but I hope this comment will be counted. Thank you.

Linda

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Webmaster [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, October 11, 2007 12:26 PMTo: Westside ExtensionSubject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Ferris lastName: Kawar organization: address: 1798 1/2 Washington Way city: Venice state: CA zipcode: 90291 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 11, 2007 Time: 12:26 PM -0700

comment:

A safe subway from the beach to down town is the most important issue to tackle in Los Angeles. Projects like this will help reduce pollution, accidents, lost work time and frustration by every resident living in LA. I hope you find the will to make this happen.

thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Webmaster [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, October 11, 2007 12:13 PMTo: Westside ExtensionSubject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Jonathan lastName: Yee organization: Advantec Consulting Engineers address: 21700 COPLEY DRIVE SUITE 350 city: DIAMOND BAR state: CA zipcode: 91765 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 11, 2007 Time: 12:13 PM -0700

comment:

Will you be posting the Metro Scoping PowerPoint Presentation on this website? If not may I be sent a copy? Thanks

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Jennifer lastName: Lien organization: address: 2241 Hitchcock Drive city: Alhambra state: CA zipcode: 91803 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 10, 2007 Time: 11:08 AM -0700

comment:

Please please build a subway or metro line from Downtown to the Westside - Westwood/VA area as soon as possible. VERY IMPORTANT. My father is a Vietnam Veteran and it is VERY hard for him to get to the VA Hospital. Lucky for us, I work near the VA. However, imagine how many others struggle to get to the VA? It is just a SHAME that Santa Monica residents would deny the rest of us angelinos access to this area. VA members deserve the best, most convenient care this country can offer.

I take the 10 FWY West every day from Alhambra to Westwood and it is a traffic nightmare from Downtown into Westwood. It take me an 1 1/2 each way to and from. This is no way to live. I have been driving the 10West bound for 10 years and am a UCLA Alumni and it has gotten worse and worse each year. I have a great job but the commute is forcing me to reconsider finding another one.

Way of life in LA is becoming very difficult. Even Freeways going Eastbound on the weekends are conjested.

LA needs to encourage businesses to open in other places besides the Westside. There should be some incentive the city provides to these businesses.

PLEASE PLEASE Help. I am so excited to see metro building these lines but they need to tackle the biggest problem out there...the 10 FWY Westbound.

THANK YOU!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: N. lastName: Elson organization: address: 2001 Santa monica blvd. city: Santa monica state: CA zipcode: 90404 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 10, 2007 Time: 10:59 AM -0700

comment:

In last week's LA Times it was noted that the LA DOT doesn't keep track of street traffic patterns. Without this basic information, how are you going to decide where and how to improve things?

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Lisa lastName: Takata organization: 20th Century Fox Employee address: 5506 W. 149TH PL #12 city: Hawthorne state: CA zipcode: 90250 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 10, 2007 Time: 10:41 AM -0700

comment:

Hello, I would like to have a more direct bus route from Manhattan Beach area to Century City. Right now I'd have to make 3 connections to get to my work on Pico and Ave of the Stars in Century City which is not feasible so I drive. I'd consider public transit if I only had 1 connection to make. Thanks, Lisa Takata

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Dane lastName: Lay organization: address: 122 Idlewild Road city: Severna Park state: MD zipcode: 21146 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 Time: 12:48 PM -0700

comment:

I am a current Maryland resident, but will be relocating to Los Angeles early next year. It cannot be said enough how vital the Westside Extension of the Purple Line is. While LA is a world class city, it severly lacks one thing that every other world city has: viable mass transit options. Please, do what ever is necessary to get the purple line done and more importantly, done right.

Light rail and BRT simply are not options. People will not want to transfer from one mode to another halfway through their trip. They will not use such a system and will stay in their cars. In addition, this line will only work if it is completely separated from automobile traffic. Building an underground subway is the only option.

If you venture to other major cities, it becomes obvious that mass transit is currently experiencing a renaissance. The age of the ever-expanding freeway is over. It has been proven time and time again that if you widen a freeway, it is only a matter of time before it becomes gridlocked once again. Plus, with LA being surrounded by mountains, the last thing the region needs is more pollution-spewing automobiles stuck in gridlock.

Please complete this extension all the way to Santa Monica and help bring Los Angeles out of the 1950's and into the Twenty-First Century.

Thank you.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Derek lastName: Blume organization: BFX address: 2715 Abbot Kinney Blvd #7 city: Venice Beach state: CA zipcode: 90291 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 Time: 12:39 PM -0700

comment:

I am in favor of a subway, possibly an extension of the Redline. I believe the track should run down either Wilshire or Olympic, both run a convenient course across the city, Olympic is slightly more convenient for people that live below Santa Monica. The track should extend all the way to Santa Monica.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 8:55 AMTo: Ginny-Marie Case; Clarissa FilgiounSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

Okay, I am sending this manually as it may have arrived before I set up the new auto forward feature. ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 8:53 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Edward lastName: Kwok organization: address: 3530 Wilshire Bl, #1260 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90010 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 Time: 08:52 AM ‐0700 comment: I support the extention of a railway, NOT a bus line, to the west Los Angeles. That's the area highly in demand for a rapid transit system. People've been sick and tired of the traffic on the surface road and highways in the area for decades.

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 8:55 AMTo: Ginny-Marie Case; Clarissa FilgiounSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

Categories: we

Okay, I am sending this manually as it may have arrived before I set up the new auto forward feature. ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 8:53 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Edward lastName: Kwok organization: address: 3530 Wilshire Bl, #1260 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90010 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 09, 2007 Time: 08:52 AM ‐0700 comment: I support the extention of a railway, NOT a bus line, to the west Los Angeles. That's the area highly in demand for a rapid transit system. People've been sick and tired of the traffic on the surface road and highways in the area for decades.

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Roberto lastName: Garcia organization: address: 7828 Day Creek Blvd. #1426 city: Rancho Cucamonga state: CA zipcode: 91739 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 08, 2007 Time: 08:28 PM -0700

comment:

I currently take a Metrolink into Los Angeles for work and I enjoy the Metro Rail system but hate the fact that a subway doesn't reach the west valley or the westside. In an ideal world, the red line would extend into the west valley replacing the bus line, the purple line would extend straight along wilshire(with stops in beverly hills and century city) ending in westwood. There would also be an additional connecting line from the red line near the 101/405 all the way down to the expo line (which goes to the sea, santa monica) also linking the purple line extension (in westwood). These lines would finally get people out of their cars and unclog the 101 and 405 freeways.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Derrick lastName: Lo organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 08, 2007 Time: 04:06 PM -0700

comment:

Would either the Wilshire or Santa Monica alignments be built in seperate phases, similar to how the existing Metro Red/Purple Lines were built?

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Jessica lastName: Dabney organization: address: 8447 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 200 city: Beverly Hills state: CA zipcode: 90211 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 08, 2007 Time: 09:48 AM -0700

comment:

I believe that a subway is the best way to tackle the congestion problem. I believe that the subway should run along Wilshire Boulevard and I would be thrilled if there was a stop near where I live (Fairfax and Wilshire) and where I work (La Cienega and Wilshire).

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Josh lastName: Epstein organization: address: 527 San Vicente Blvd #308 city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90402 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 08, 2007 Time: 09:40 AM -0700

comment:

Dear MTA,

Traffic is the worst part about living in this city. This emergency requires immediate solutions. I encourage you to build as many rail lines ASAP. I will happily give up my car and commute on the train. I support the extension of the Expo Line and the Subway to the Sea down Wilshire. Let's build these now!

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Ginny-Marie Case


******************************************************************************* firstName: Michael lastName: Doherty organization: UCLA address: 1980 Cummings Dr. city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 08, 2007 Time: 09:00 AM -0700

comment:

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From: Mark Johnston [[email protected]]Sent: Sunday, October 07, 2007 7:17 PMTo: [email protected]: ALTERNATE ROUTE

DON'T JUST RUN THE SUBWAY AS A STRAIGHT SHOT DOWN WILSHIRE....WE NEED TO START CONECTING DESTINATIONS/TRAFFIC GENERATORS AS WELL, NOT JUST 'DRAWING STRAIGHT LINES' ON A MAP.. THIS IS A SUBWAY, IT CAN GO ANYWHERE, LET'S MAKE USE OF THIS EXPENSIVE TECHNOLOGY IN THE RIGHT MANNER--- MY ROUTE AND STOPS AS FOLLOWS (AFTER LEAVING WILSHIRE/WESTERN)= - 1/ WILSHIRE/CRENSHAW -------------------------------- CONNECTIONS TO POINTS SOUTH 2/ WILSHIRE/LA BREA --------------------------------- MUSEUM ROW --- THEN CURVE SLIGHTLY TO THE NORTH, BUT STILL RUNNING EAST-WEST TO 3/ 3RD / FAIRFAX ------------------------------ FARMERS MARKET/THE GROVE 4/ 3RD/ LA CIENEGA ------------------------------- BEVERLY CENTER- CEDAR SINAI HOSPITAL 5// 3RD/DOHENY ------------------------------- 4 SEASON HOTEL AREA 6/ BEVERLY DRIVE/SM BLVD ------------------------------ B.H. CIVIC CENTER AREA- SHOT WALK TO RODEO 7/ CENTURY CITY --------------------------------PICK SPOT TO BE PED. FREINDLY INTERFACE WITH OTHER IMPROVEMENTS IN AREA--- --THEN CURVE UP TO-- 8/ WILSHIRE/BEVERLY GLEN ----------------- LARGE CONDO/APARMENT AREA-- SERVES SENIORS, HOUSEKEEPERS WHO WORK IN AREA ETC 9 / UCLA ------ BEST LOCATION TO ME IS WESTWOOD BLVD AND LECONTE- NOT WAY DOWN AT WILSHIRE/WESTWOOD ------------------------------------------------THE SUBWAY NEEDS TO SERVICE THE CAMPUS AND ADJOINING VILLAGE, NOT A PEDESTRIAN UNFRIENDLY , TRAFFIC FILLED CORNER AT WESTWOOD/WILSHIRE.... MUST DIRECTLY SERVE UCLA- HORRIBLE PARKING, TRANSIT DEPENDING STUDENTS 10 / CURVE DOWN TO VA PROPERTY---------- PICK A LOCATION THAT WILL SERVE ANY CURRENT AND FUTURE DEVELOPEMENT ON PROPERTY AND ---------------------------------------HAVE SET UP FOR A PROPER TRANFER FOR FUTURE NORTH/SOUTH LINE UP AND DOWN 405 INTO SF VALLEY.. MORE ROOM .......................................HERE, THAN AT UCLA FOR LARGE TRANSFER STATION 11/ STATIONS DOWNS WILSHIRE AS OTHER STUDIES HAVE SHOWN WILSHIRE AND BUNDY, WILSHIRE AND 26TH , WILSHIRE AND 14TH, WILSHIRE AND 4TH (SM PROMINADE) . THESE CAN BE MOVE OR SPACED AS NEEDED OR AGREEMENT WITH SANTA MONICA. 12,/ LAST STOP, VERY IMPORTANT TO BE AT THE SEARS STORE LOCATION TO CONNECT WITH EXPO LINE ================================================================================ APPROX. 15 STATIONS, WOULD LIKE TO SEE BUILD IN 5-6 STATION SEGMENTS.. BETTER YET, PUT THE TUNNELING MACHINES IN THE GROUND AT WESTERN AND DON'T HAVE THEM COME OUT UNTIL YOU REACH THE BEACH!!! A CONTINOUS DESIGN-ENGINEER- BUILT PROCESS... PLEASE ADD ME TO THE MAILING LIST MARK JOHNSTON , 4185 VAN BUREN STREET, CHINO, CA 91710 [email protected]

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******************************************************************************* firstName: mark lastName: johnston organization: trac,narp address: 4185 van buren street city: chino state: ca zipcode: 91710 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 07, 2007 Time: 06:50 PM -0700

comment:

Don't just make s subway straight shot down Wilshire.. We need to start connecting destinations, not keep missing them... After the extention starts from Western, need to curve up to paralle 3rd street to Farmers Market/Grove, then down 3rd to Robertson/San Vincent= Beverly Center and hospital. Downtown Bev Hills, then Century City and then curving up to UCLA/ Westwood village, before heading throgh the VA property back to WIlshire and on to Santa Monica..... WE HAVE TO START LINKING DESTINATIONS, NOT KEEP MISSING THEM... Tourists by the thousands will go to Farmers Market adn the 2 shopping centers. Students from UCLA will do the same...

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Greg lastName: Kay organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 90020 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 07, 2007 Time: 01:11 PM -0700

comment:

I want to register my support for the extension of the purple line subway westward down Wilshire Blvd. Based on the ridership of Wilshire buses, the need is clearly present.

Also, I think the MTA should consider double tracking this route. This will allow it to run express trains from Santa Monica to Downtown (and vice versa). For people who make the entire trip, this would save a lot of time.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Michelle lastName: Chan organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, October 07, 2007 Time: 11:07 AM -0700

comment:

I would like the study to evaluate the Wilshire Boulevard alignment more than the Santa Monica alignment, as I think Wilshire Blvd would be a more popular route.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Lawrence lastName: Maldonado organization: address: 1531 Malcolm Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 05, 2007 Time: 10:24 PM -0700

comment:

Please evaluate the following alternatives: 1) Subway extension down Wilshire from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/SM, then down SM to SM/Westwood, then to Westwood/Wilshire, then down Wilshire to Wilshire/Ocean

2) Subway extension down Wilshire from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/San Vicente to Burton Way, to SM to SM/Westwood to Westwood/Wilshire to Wilshire/Ocean

3) Subway extension down Wilshire from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/Ocean 4 Subway extension down Highland from Hollywood/Highland to Highland/SM then down SM to SM/Westwood then down Westwood to Westwood/Wilshire then down Wilshire to Wilshire/Ocean

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Lawrence lastName: Maldonado organization: address: 1531 Malcolm Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 05, 2007 Time: 10:23 PM -0700

comment:

Please evaluate the following alternatives: 1) Subway extension down Wilshire from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/SM, then down SM to SM/Westwood, then to Westwood/Wilshire, then down Wilshire to Wilshire/Ocean

2) Subway extension down Wilshire from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/San Vicente to Burton Way, to SM to SM/Westwood to Westwood/Wilshire to Wilshire/Ocean

3) Subway extension down Wilshire from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/Ocean 4 Subway extension down Highland from Hollywood/Highland to Highland/SM then down SM to SM/Westwood then down Westwood to Westwood/Wilshire then down Wilshire to Wilshire/Ocean

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From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Friday, October 05, 2007 2:40 PMTo: Ginny-Marie Case; Filgioun, ClarissaSubject: FW: meeting flyers?

Another fan letter. Please send Mr. Jozwik a PDF of our flyer. ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: Jeremy Jozwik [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, October 05, 2007 12:51 PM To: [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: meeting flyers? Hello, I am wondering if there are any print flyers, like this: http://www.buildexpo.org/images/Expo%20Phase%202%20Informational%20Meeti ngs.pdf , for the Westside and Crenshaw corridor meetings. I would like to print something out for my work place. thank you Jeremy

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From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Friday, October 05, 2007 11:54 AMTo: Ginny-Marie Case; Filgioun, ClarissaSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, October 05, 2007 10:51 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Benjamin lastName: Pack organization: address: city: Beverly Hills state: CA zipcode: 90212 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, October 05, 2007 Time: 10:51 AM ‐0700 comment: I think the Westside is in desperate need of a subway line(s) in order to facilitate commutes and ease traffic and I highly support the idea of using heavy rail. Both the Wilshire Blvd alignment from Wilshire/Western and the Santa Monica Blvd alignment starting at Hollywood/Highland seem like promising options. However, since there seems to be high density along both these corridors, it seems logical that both should be studied/constructed (thus creating a loop which would critically serve the surrounding area and ease congestion. Lastly, I think an alignment that reaches the Grove/Farmers Market as well as the Beverly Center and Cedars Sinai Hospital should be studied since these are two regional centers that draw a lot of people and currently appear to be well off both the alignments currently proposed.

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From: AR [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, October 04, 2007 4:32 PMTo: [email protected]: traffic

We live in South Carthay and the traffic on Pico and Olympic is only getting worse , therefore this pushes more cars thru the neighborhood which only reduces more the quality of life here in Los Angeles. We need a service that would run along Wilshire from downtown to the beach and since most major cities have subway, as long as there are enough personnel to make it safe and clean, Los Angeles should have this as well. Thanks, Amy Raff and Abe Rotchel

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Phillip lastName: Estes organization: address: 1353 N MARTEL AVE #119 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 04, 2007 Time: 03:04 PM -0700

comment:

Please finish the red line subway to the sea and keep moving forward with a comprehensive rail system.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Karen lastName: Bodner organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 04, 2007 Time: 01:33 PM -0700

comment:

While I hope to attend one of the upcoming meetings, and will likely have additional comments then, I'd like to strongly recommend that LACMTA *also* consider north-south links between the lines. Traffic does not flow simply between the east and west sides; providing an easy means to transfer between routes would make the proposed system more useful, and cut down on localized traffic for those who need to get somewhere other than just the transit stop, and who won't take transit if it is difficult to continue their journey from the station.

Thanks for considering the suggestion.

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From: Ramin A. Bastani [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, October 04, 2007 10:14 AMTo: [email protected]: Subway

Please, please please make a LA a mobile-city; run a subway down Wilshire, extending from Wilshire/Western. I live in Hollywood and currently use the red-line to go to my office several times a week in downtown…HURRY UP AND GET THIS THING GOING! Thanks.

Ramin Bastani

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Vicki lastName: Kelly organization: Bel Air Beverly Crest Neighborhood Council address: 11414 Chalon Road city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90049 email: Submit: Submit Date: Thursday, October 04, 2007 Time: 08:38 AM -0700

comment:

THIS IS GREAT!!! Please, please build this as soon as possible. It is much needed on the westside. Our traffic congestion is getting worse by the day, and this "subway to the sea" would be a wonderful benefit to the whole community.

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From: [email protected]: Thursday, October 04, 2007 7:30 AMTo: "Ginny-Marie Case"Subject: RE: Reminder: Westside Extension Community Meeting

George, I sure hate to miss this meeting on the 18th, I will be out of town. But, after spending each morning this week, taking over an hour and 15 min. to get to Robertson and Wilshire, I would probably just shoot them all any ways. Marilyn "Ginny‐Marie Case" <[email protected]> wrote: >Community Meeting: Westside Extension > > > >What do you think about traffic and congestion on the Westside? > >Metro wants to hear from you! > > > >Metro has just started work on the Westside Extension Transit Corridor >Study which will look at ways to improve mobility on the Westside of Los Angeles. >The study, which is in its first "Alternatives Analysis" phase, will >examine potential alignments, modes and station locations throughout >the 38 square mile study area. > > > >Please attend an October public meeting for the Westside Extension >Transit Corridor Study. > > > >. Does transit need to be improved on the Westside? > >. Do you prefer subway, light rail, more buses or another mode? > >. Do you like a Wilshire or a Santa Monica Boulevard alignment better? > >. Do you want a station in your neighborhood? > >. What is important to you in evaluating these alternatives? > > > >Please join Metro at one of five upcoming community meetings where you >can comment on what you want Metro to study: > > > >Westwood/Century City

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> >Tuesday, October 9 > >1650 Selby Avenue, Los Angeles > > > >Pan Pacific Recreation Center > >Thursday, October 11 > >7600 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles > > > >Wilshire United Methodist Church > >Tuesday, October 16 > >4350 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles > > > >Beverly Hills > >Public Library Auditorium > >Wednesday, October 17 > >444 North Rexford Drive, Beverly Hills > > > >Santa Monica Public Library > >Thursday, October 18 > >601 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica > > > >All meetings begin at 6:00 p.m. and end at 8:00 p.m. > > > > Content at these meetings will be identical, so make sure to attend at >the time and location most convenient for you. > > > >Comments about the study may be received at the public workshops, or by >filling out the comment form on the project website, leaving a message >on the information line or by writing: > > > >Mr. David Mieger, AICP,

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> >Project Manager and Deputy Executive Officer > >Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (METRO) > >One Gateway Plaza > >Los Angeles, CA 90012. > > > >Your comments must be received by November 1, 2007. > > > >For more information about the project study, please visit our website >at > > <http://www.metro.net/westside> http://www.metro.net/westside or >contact the project information line at 213.922.6932. > > > > > >

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From: Ginny-Marie Case [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, October 04, 2007 6:32 AMTo: [email protected]: Reminder: Westside Extension Community Meeting

Community Meeting: Westside Extension What do you think about traffic and congestion on the Westside? Metro wants to hear from you! Metro has just started work on the Westside Extension Transit Corridor Study which will look at ways to improve mobility on the Westside of Los Angeles. The study, which is in its first ‘‘Alternatives Analysis’’ phase, will examine potential alignments, modes and station locations throughout the 38 square mile study area. Please attend an October public meeting for the Westside Extension Transit Corridor Study. · Does transit need to be improved on the Westside? · Do you prefer subway, light rail, more buses or another mode? · Do you like a Wilshire or a Santa Monica Boulevard alignment better? · Do you want a station in your neighborhood? · What is important to you in evaluating these alternatives? Please join Metro at one of five upcoming community meetings where you can comment on what you want Metro to study: Westwood/Century City Tuesday, October 9 1650 Selby Avenue, Los Angeles Pan Pacific Recreation Center Thursday, October 11 7600 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles Wilshire United Methodist Church Tuesday, October 16 4350 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles Beverly Hills Public Library Auditorium Wednesday, October 17 444 North Rexford Drive, Beverly Hills Santa Monica Public Library Thursday, October 18 601 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica

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All meetings begin at 6:00 p.m. and end at 8:00 p.m. Content at these meetings will be identical, so make sure to attend at the time and location most convenient for you. Comments about the study may be received at the public workshops, or by filling out the comment form on the project website, leaving a message on the information line or by writing: Mr. David Mieger, AICP, Project Manager and Deputy Executive Officer Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (METRO) One Gateway Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012. Your comments must be received by November 1, 2007. For more information about the project study, please visit our website at http://www.metro.net/westside or contact the project information line at 213.922.6932.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Haywood lastName: Ho organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 07:48 PM -0700

comment:

I would be favour of the cheapest alternative that would include stops at Santa Monica, UCLA/Veterans Administration, and a seamless connection to the current subway system - and I would assume that heavy rail along Wilshire would be the cheapest alternative that fulfills these requirements.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Zack lastName: Hamra organization: address: 1260 N. Laurel Ave. #12 city: West Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 06:35 PM -0700

comment:

Dear God, Please let the line run from Highland to Santa Monica Blvd, and on down to the ocean. Perhaps a stop off at UCLA would be nice. It boggles my mind how this enormous city has gone without an east/west railway for this long.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: gil lastName: hopenstand organization: address: 1506 s bentley ave #201 city: los angeles state: ca zipcode: 90025 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 05:59 PM -0700

comment:

1) Mode: Make it a subway (as opposed to bus, etc) because more people will use the Purple Line if you can offer real time savings.

2) Route: Extend the Purple Line along Wilshire, because it would cut through an area that is more dense and would be more used than a subway along Santa Monica Blvd.

Also, at minimum, the purple line should extend to Century City and Westwood.

Build it, and build it soon!

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From: Michael Gross [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 4:51 PMTo: [email protected]: Yes to westside rail!

Traffic is the number one threat to real growth on the Westside. If Los Angeles wants to grow up to be a "real" city, it needs to step up and implement real mass transit. Buses are beholden to the flow of traffic. Getting people out of their cars and into buses isn't going to start until they can provide a faster commute, and that won't happen unless cars get off the road--it's a catch-22 with no viable solution. Aerial or subterranean rail is the only viable solution, as the trains can avoid automotive traffic. A purple line extending down Wilshire (perhaps with a Century City detour) would meet the important criteria of being no more than a 20 minute walk from the homes and workplaces of many different people who would otherwise be driving. I strongly believe that 20 minutes is a firm upper limit for how far people are willing to travel to mass transit. 20 minutes to the subway for people along wilshire, or 20 minutes to the Expo line for people in the "southern" westside. This is the ONLY way traffic will subside, and Los Angeles can begin to function efficiently. Additionally, the city and state should take a very strong approach towards fund raising through public initiatives. Bond measures are meant for this kind of undertaking, and those worried that rail will decrease their property values (Beverly Hills and Cheviot Hills) should look at the mounds of evidence that show the opposite. Sincerely, Michael Gross Santa Monica/West LA resident of 24 years -- --------------------------- Michael Gross 310.350.0841 [email protected]

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From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 3:21 PMTo: Ginny-Marie Case; Filgioun, ClarissaSubject: FW: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

Not sent automatically, yet. Still working on it. ‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 2:27 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments ************************************************************************ ******* firstName: Jeff lastName: Mee organization: address: city: CULVER CITY state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 02:27 PM ‐0700 comment: We must do everything we can to increase high density, non‐automotive transportation in Los Angeles. Additionally, we should be creating pedestrian‐ and bike‐friendly environments to supplement this rail system. The benefits will far outweigh the costs in the long run, and should embrace the kind of economic and cultural growth that good planning and a high throughput of people (without having to provide parking for all of them!) can provide.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Charles lastName: Malmsten organization: address: 343 N Ave 52 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90042 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 02:03 PM -0700

comment:

Recently I've began to use the metro's gold line to go from highland park to CSULA for grad school, as well as to pasadena for the gym, as well as grocery shopping in south pasadena's trader joes. I have to say I'm incredibly pleased with the gold line, it's an incredibly effective system of travel to get me from one area to the next and also makes the existing busline present in LA considerably more effective as well.

I'd love to see an extension of the rail system into santa monica as well as other locations. I have my car, and he's running great however the ease of use of the rail system, and the joy of not having to drive is something I greatly appreciate. I hope that the westside extension gets up and rolling soon :)

P.S. THANK YOU for the gold line extension :D looking forward to getting into little tokyo with the gold line soon!

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Categories: we

******************************************************************************* firstName: Sarah lastName: Utley organization: address: 3271 Malcolm Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90034 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 02:02 PM -0700

comment:

I am a westside resident who wants the subway on the westside!! Please run it down Exposition since the right-of-way is already there!!!

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Sarah lastName: Utley organization: address: 3271 Malcolm Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90034 email: sarahutle Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 02:00 PM -0700

comment:

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Christine lastName: Safriet organization: address: city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90068 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 01:57 PM -0700

comment:

As a resident of Hollywood working in the Westwood Village area, I am a supporter of new transportation alternatives to my current (and awful) solo car commute. In particular, I hope you will study the possibility of multi-modal, multi-phase implementation as part of the analysis - i.e. immediate or near-term bus-only lanes, combined with longer term light or heavy rail construction.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Ellen lastName: Isaacs organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 11:53 AM -0700

comment:

Just want to make sure I'm on your mailing list - Thanks!

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Anil lastName: Bhushan organization: UCLA address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 11:34 AM -0700

comment:

We need a subway extension of the red line all the way to santa monica-the debate should be how to get money and how fast can we build it.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Maxwell lastName: Hessman organization: Restaurant address: 601 Colorado Ave city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90401 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 10:43 AM -0700

comment:

This is a no brainer. I live in Culver City and work in Santa Monica. It is 6 miles door to door. It can take me well over 45 minutes to get home some nights. This is embarrassing for a city that has money oozing out of the hill sides. Trains are the only viable, long term solution to fix (not putting band aids over outdated ideas...hence the expansion of the 405 on the west side) Los Angele's world famous traffic problems. Yes it will be expensive and it will take political will. But without it Los Angeles will slowly grind to a halt and so will the local economy. Many companies will leave Southern California if their goods can't make it to their destination on time or their employees can't get to work. The freeway is a twentieth century fix to a twenty first century problem. I would love to hope on the subway/light rail/monorail to get to work and never have to use my car in LA again. Many citizens are like me and are fed up. Lets take a mix of private enterprise and goverment and get the show on the road. This is 30 years overdue. Help our economy keep up, help clean up our skies, help our citizens lead a more productive life and get trains to the West Side...please.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Jon lastName: Lindstrom organization: address: city: Venice state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 10:11 AM -0700

comment:

As one who has lived in LA for 29 years, and whose older relatives grew up here espousing the benefits of the "best commuter system in the world", I find it incomprehensible that we have not taken real steps to recreate the Los Angeles light-rail system of yore. Rather than another subway (that will take decades to complete) or an aerial heavy-rail, a light-rail will reach more destinations, be easier to use and faster to build. And, since we're again overdue for a major earthquake, likely much safer overall. To say nothing of the savings to the tax-payers who will finance it. Isn't the point to get commuters out of their cars as soon as possible, rather than make our travelling worse for years to come by over-spending on another tunnel? We know what routes to use, where to park the cars, build the stations. We even have access to quiet and green trains. What's the problem? Why the discussion? It's obvious to me and everyone I discuss this with; light-rail is the way to go to West LA.

Jon Lindstrom Venice

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From: Tom McAndrew [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 9:56 AMTo: [email protected]: What about north/south public transit on the Westside?

I live in Northridge and work in Culver City.

There is exactly squat I've heard about viable mass-transit options between the Valley and the Westside.

The 405 Freeway is intolerable, and I don't see a few extra carpool lanes (being built at a glacial pace, by the way) making it much better.

I even drive a Prius in the carpool lane (yes, I realize that contributes to the carpool lane crowding problem...), and it still takes me over an hour to go 20 miles one-way every day.

I would gladly take mass transit if it would cut down my commute, but the buses on the 405 sit in the same gridlock as the cars. I assure you that I'm not one of those people who wants you to build mass transit for "other people". I would walk the walk on this one - I used to live in the VA suburbs of Washington D.C., and I took Metro there every day. It was wonderful.

Are there any ideas AT ALL to discuss what to do about Westside north-south congestion?

A subway, monorail, dedicated busway, kicking ALL cars out of the carpool lane in favor of buses (seriously!), SOMETHING! Please put some thought into what to do about this completely neglected aspect of our traffic congestion problem.

Thanks, Tom McAndrew

____________________________________________________________________________________ Luggage? GPS? Comic books? Check out fitting gifts for grads at Yahoo! Search http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=oni_on_mail&p=graduation+gifts&cs=bz

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Cathy lastName: Des Lauriers organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 09:45 AM -0700

comment:

Yes, we desparately need the Westside Transit Corridor project. I would like to see more bikeways and pedestrian areas, as well as trains or dedicated bus lanes, either on Wilshire or Santa Monica. If you build it, my family and I will use it - often. It should go all the way to Santa Monica. We live in Hollywood and take a trip to WLA or SM at least weekly, and if it were not for the traffic, we would visit more often.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Paul lastName: Ryan organization: address: 4848 Lexington Ave #207 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90029 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 09:24 AM -0700

comment:

This is in reference to the public meetings held regarding the proposed purple line subway. I can't make the meetings, so here's my comment:

I greatly support the extension of the purple line to Santa Monica. While there's no way to fix traffic in this city, it's our responsibility to give people a good alternative. Your red line is already a great service, and I'd love to see more subways, no matter the cost.

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From: Asmita Joshi [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 9:12 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside extension

Hi I work on W Olympic Blvd and Bundy Dr and travel everyday by car. Given an option of train, I would not travel to office by car again. A train running parallel to the I-10 freeway is a very much needed addition to our public transit. It would be good if the metro could start from Wilshire & Vermont and end at Santa Monica & Pacific Coast Hwy. With such a route, it would cut across LA and would be well used and very convenient for everyone. It would be wonderful if it can go all the way to the coast so people can enjoy their weekends on the beach without driving and parking hassles. I moved to LA 2 months ago and traveled by our Metro for the first time last weekend. It was affordable and extremely comfortable. I hope to travel to office also by metro. Please make my dream a reality. Thanking you in advance Asmita

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Stephan lastName: Clark organization: address: 5635 Farmdale Ave city: North Hollywood state: CA zipcode: 91601 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 Time: 08:39 AM -0700

comment:

Make the Westside Extension of the Expo Line a straight line. Do not detour down Venice Blvd and then make a 90-degree turn and go up alongside the 405. If you do this, you add more time to a trip. Add too much time and you'll have a system that too few people use. Think of all Angelenos, not just a few homeowners.

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From: Bonnie Ferron [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, October 03, 2007 7:10 AMTo: [email protected]: More mass transit

Dear Metro, I live in Canoga Park -- so near and yet so far from the Westside. Heaven would be a connection between the Orange Line and a subway to West LA and Santa Monica. Parking is so difficult on the other side of "the hill." Metro would be the answer. I don't have an opinion on the route taken -- just make UCLA one of the stops. By the way, we recently went to Watts on Metro -- the Orange Line to the Red Line to the Blue Line. Everything went smoothly. I was very impressed. My two quibbles -- the Orange Line Bus should have priority over street traffic -- this would attract more riders because mass transit would provide a convenience not available to the driver (no waiting at lights!), thus making up for the inconvenience of having to share, making stops to let people on and off, and running on Metro's schedule. Also, the ticket machines should take credit / debit cards, saving the inconvenience of needing cash. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Bonnie Ferron 22266 Schoenborn St. Canoga Park, CA 91304

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From: Jeff Rabin [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 11:07 PMTo: [email protected]: Please add me to your mailing list.

Jeffrey Rabin Staff Writer Los Angeles Times 213-237-2575 [email protected]

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Jeremy lastName: Roberson organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 09:44 PM -0700

comment:

Many politicians and the BRU have suggested that buses are the way to go, but any engineer with a 2.0 average would tell you that a subway is at least 3 times more efficient and can sustain far denser development. I want to know what studies have been done comparing the total flux (persons/per hour/mile) of a subway compared to buses, and where are the results? Is a formal EIR being done for a true westside traffic system (preferably a subway)? What is the progess of the ROW for the expo line? Are the lights being sychronized? What are the short term plans and the long term plans? Now that federal funds have been legalized for the subway, what is the MTA doing to repeal Zev's sales tax law? What type of outreach for rail is the MTA doing to help educate Angelenos? What is the status on the safety of the at grade crossings of the expo line? How does the MTA plan to handle the descent decree (BRU) when expanded transit in the westside? Surely evreyon knows buses will be less effective on the westside without at least having 2 solid rail lines to supplement them.

Please tell me more about your plans on the most congested region in the country.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Michael lastName: Metcalfe organization: Metcalfe Associates address: 1421 Pandora Avenue city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90024 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 06:23 PM -0700

comment:

Can we count on a subway station at Avenue of the Stars & Santa Monica Blvd. and at north side Wilshire Blvd. between Gayley and Veteran?

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Robert lastName: Aronson organization: yes, fairly well-organized, I would say, and most agree... address: 1909 Ocean Front Walk #4 city: Venice state: CA zipcode: 90291 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 05:16 PM -0700

comment:

Hi!

Unless we know the final decision on the route of the Expo line, it's hard to make decisions on the Westside Extension. I think the Expo line should continue along Venice Blvd. to the beach, otherwise it will follow Olympic, which is nearly parallel and close to Wilshire.

As for the Westside Extension, I support Wilshire Blvd. as the location.

As to the location with respect to grade, I prefer a subway, unless it would be far less expensive to build an above-ground monorail, which I doubt. Underground is protected from the weather, and it's less likely to be affected by events occurring above the ground (car on fire, vehicle colliding with track support piling, etc.).

I also think the Wilshire subway needs 2 feeders: an elevated monorail through UCLA on then in the middle of the 405 leading to the Valley, and another elevated monorail in the middle of Lincoln Blvd. leading to LAX.

These solutions seem rather obvious to me, and the only question is the money and the foresight.

Thank you for considering my opinion.

Keep up the GREAT work!!

Robert

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******************************************************************************* firstName: amy lastName: petersen organization: the Foundation for Living Beauty address: 4804 Laurel Canyon Blvd suite 526 city: valley village state: CA zipcode: 91607 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 04:01 PM -0700

comment:

i am in support of the extension line to santa monica.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Renee lastName: Fortier organization: UCLA address: 555 Westwood Plaza, Suite 100 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 02:37 PM -0700

comment:

We strongly urge you to focus on alternatives which include a stop in Westwood. Westwood is a major population and employment center for Los Angeles. Moreover, UCLA, in addition to being a world class university and special event destination, is home to a major medical center and trauma center. To maintain access to these functions for the future as traffic increases, an option must become available which does not rely on overcrowded highways and arterials.

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From: Bob Gardner [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 12:52 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Metro Extension

Thank you for the opportunity to provide my input. Seems to me that the Westside route should extend westward from Wilshire/Western along Wilshire into Beverly Hills, connect into Century City, then along Wilshire passing through Westwood and ultimately ending in Santa Monica. --Bob Gardner Santa Monica resident

The information contained in this e-mail message is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. If you are not an intended recipient or if you have received this message in error, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copy of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify us by return e-mail or telephone, then promptly and permanently delete this message. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: David lastName: Murphy organization: address: 503 N Arden Dr city: Beverly Hills state: CA zipcode: 90210 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 12:10 PM -0700

comment:

Please add me to the mailing list if I am not already on it. Thank you.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Jessie lastName: Cowawn organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 11:48 AM -0700

comment:

To whome it may concern,

I believe this is a such a worthy cause and I highly support and encourage it! It will make Los Angeles even more of an amazing city then it already is. Not to mention how wonderful it will be to make a connection for so many communities and help so many people! It's the way to go!

Thank you,

-Jessie Cowan

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From: jcm [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 11:34 AMTo: [email protected]: Subway to the sea

we need this so badly in west la... please bring it down wilshire to the beach.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: James lastName: Kelly, AIA organization: address: 1534 N Formosa Ave #5 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90046 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 11:32 AM -0700

comment:

As an architect and Los Angeles resident, I support this study and project in the strongest possible terms. I am convinced that its completion within the next 10 years is nothing less than critically essential to the economic and social future of our City.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Josh lastName: Pangell organization: address: 610 S Main St #425 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90014 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 10:44 AM -0700

comment:

i want the subway to the sea!

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Kelly lastName: Kinney organization: address: 610 S. Main Street #425 city: Los Angeles state: CA zipcode: 90014 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 Time: 10:34 AM -0700

comment:

Please build the Westside extension! We need the Purple line running down Wilshire Blvd. to the sea. This should be the absolute #1 priority to solve traffic congestion!

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From: Makan Mohageg [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 7:15 AMTo: [email protected]: Question for Study

Hi, In the planned study of extending mass transit to West LA, please look into the following:

1) Constructing a subway line down Wilshire from the Wilshire/Western terminus AND a subway line along Santa Monica from the Hollywood/Highland station simultaneously as part of a single, unified project.

2) Determine how the economies of scale can reduce the construction cost per mile if more miles of subway are constructed for the project

3) Look into 'fast-tracking' the approval/construction timeline by asking the state government to declare a state of emergency, as traffic woes in LA cost the state billions of dollars per year due to decreased productivity of commuters.

Thank You,

Makan Mohageg

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Dan lastName: Wentzel organization: address: 1228 10th Street, #3 city: Santa Monica state: CA zipcode: 90401 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 09:17 PM -0700

comment:

Hi. I totally support this project. Build the subway to the sea as soon as possible and please make sure it goes to Century City, not just near it.

However, a Santa Monica Blvd. corridor is equally as necessary. Extending the Red Line southwest from Hollywood/Highland, sometimes called the "Pink Line" makes complete sense. I support Santa Monica Blvd over Sunset Blvd for the Fairfax and La Cienega stops, because I believe more people will be served by it and more people will be able to walk to it.

There assumed connector from the Red Line would, I imagine, run down Santa Monica Blvd to hook up with the Purple Line in Century City. This is wonderful. Santa Monica Blvd's unique status as a northeast/southwest corridor offers the best possibility for people to get to/from Hollywood/Westside without having to go all the way to Wilshire/Vermont to transfer.

I wanted to mention another possibility for this "connector" that I have been ruminating on. If it went from Hollywood/Highland to the following stops:

Sunset/LaBrea Santa Monica/Fairfax Santa Monica/La Cienega Santa Monica/San Vicente San Vicente / Beverly La Cienega / 3rd St. La Cienega / Wilshire (transfer to Purple Line) La Cienega / Olympic La Cienega / Pico La Cienega / Venice La Cienega / Washington (transfer to Exposition Line)

The advantage of this corridor is enormous. It connects both the Exposition Line and the Purple Line to the Red Line and goes to numerous high traffic locations. The popular transfer points at Hollywood/Highland, La Cienega/Wilshire and La Cienega/Washington offer great design opportunities.

AND, it offers a way to potentially extend the line at some point to reach LAX from the North.

Whatever "connector" route is chosen, it should be treated as part of the Westside Extension project and not something to come afterwards.

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In addition, part of the Long Range Transportation Plan should include extending the Green Line to LAX and north up Sepulveda to UCLA over the pass and into the Valley, connecting with the Orange Line and Metrolink, numerous Rapid Bus and local bus lines. Then we will have the skeleton of a "system".

Thank you so much for finally moving forward on this excellent project.

You have my full and entire support.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: THEODORIC lastName: HUANG organization: address: city: state: ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 06:20 PM -0700

comment:

also have expo rail phase 2 be constructed along exposition right of way without any detours.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: THEODORIC lastName: HUANG organization: address: 10521 NATIONAL BLVD APT 210 city: LOS ANGELES state: CA zipcode: 90034 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 06:17 PM -0700

comment:

have subway extentsion to the sea along wilshire blvd constructed. a bus lane along santa monica blvd needs to be implemented since the buses are stuck in traffic.

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From: Beth Rolandson [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, October 01, 2007 6:06 PMTo: [email protected]: Wilshire Transit Alternatives

I am not able to attend any of October's meetings on transit alternatives in the Wilshire vicinity. I would like to heartily endorse the study of the extension of the subway all the way to the Pacific Ocean on Wilshire Bouelvard, including in Santa Monica.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Alborzi lastName: Ali organization: address: city: state: Ca zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 05:08 PM -0700

comment:

Great Idea

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Wayne lastName: Johnson organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 04:59 PM -0700

comment:

It would be great to be able to take the Blue line from Long Beach to the Purple line and end up in downtown Santa Monica, I think the Wilshire Blvd extension would be great.

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From: [email protected]: Monday, October 01, 2007 4:55 PMTo: [email protected]: expand the metro!!!

hi there, just wanted to send my thoughts: as a teacher who commutes from pasadena to culver city, the idea of the metro extending all the way to santa monica is a dream. traffic on the 10 west is a nightmare and i would much rather spend my time on the metro (where i can grade papers!) than in my car in traffic. i totally support this idea! thanks, adrienne

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Rayne lastName: Roberts organization: address: 253 N. Mar Vista Ave city: Pasadena state: CA zipcode: 91106 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 04:29 PM -0700

comment:

I think the Westside Extension Transit Project (extension of the Purple Line to Santa Monica) is a fabulous idea that should be embraced by the MTA. Years from now your efforts to continue to improve and expand L.A.'s light rail system will be heralded. I am a frequent user of the light rail system and the fact that the purple line stops mid-Wilshire is unacceptable in this day and age. Time to move forward, reduce congestion, offer transportation alternatives, and get L.A. up to speed with the other major centers of culture and influence in the USA: Boston, San Francisco, New York, & Chicago have esteemed public transportation rail systems. L.A. is sorely behind but not for long. Onward! IF you build it, we will ride it!

THANK YOU!

Rayne Roberts Pasadena, CA

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From: [email protected]: Monday, October 01, 2007 3:51 PMTo: Westside ExtensionSubject: I vote for Pink!

The Purple Line to the sea is the fiscally responsible choice, but heck--I'd like a West Hollywood detour. If you're wondering, yes, I'm too lazy to attend the meeting. Vickie Burns-Sikora [email protected]

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Jason lastName: Weiner organization: Westside Economic Collaborative address: 10736 Jefferson Blvd., #732 city: Culver City state: CA zipcode: 90230 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 02:48 PM -0700

comment:

Please add me to the mailing list.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Robert lastName: Shapazian organization: LeParc Condominium address: 10100 Empyrean Way, #15/302 city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90067 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 02:41 PM -0700

comment:

In reply to your questions: Transit MUST BE improved. Best is light rail or subway with Wilshire alignment with a spur from/to Century City. Most important concerns are: providing routes that the most people will actually use, and reducing the dangerous increase of auto traffic guaranteed in future.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: frida lastName: sahono organization: address: city: san gabriel state: CA zipcode: 91776 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 02:15 PM -0700

comment:

I like traveling with the subway, it always arrive pretty often, and I dont have to wait for a long time. I dont really like the bus so much, so I support you guys completely if you want to extend the subway. It will be beneficial for people like me whose jobs are mostly in santa monica areas, but I live in san gabriel.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: Tim lastName: Grant organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 12:13 PM -0700

comment:

I will not be able to attend the meetings, but wanted to add my enthusiastic support for the extension of the Purple Line subway.

I would favor the Wilshire alignment as well as an extension from Hollywood/Highland to Sunset/LaBrea to Sunset/Crescent Heights to Santa Monica/Fairfax, then continuing west on Santa Monica until it meets with the purple line at Wilshire/Santa Monica.

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******************************************************************************* firstName: jeremy lastName: jozwik organization: Get La Moving address: 411 east broadway unit 10 city: san gabriel state: ca zipcode: 91776 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Monday, October 01, 2007 Time: 11:18 AM -0700

comment:

Good morning metro. First let me say how happy I am to hear that this area is going to be under study. Most of the jobs in my industry are located in Santa Monica or Venice. but I have avoided that area for many years due to the traffic issue in that region.

I have also begun using the metro rail on a regular basis from my home to Sherman Oaks. Via the gold, red, and finally to 750 down Ventura. Given I see the good and bad parts of the metro system on a daily basis I only have a few things that i would like to see implemented.

First, although it is not up to me, I would hope that this corridor is grade separated the entire length. be it under or above. My major annoyance with the gold line is the area around Marmion Way and Highland Park station were the train is not only very slow, but also comes in direct contact with cars and people. And which I'm sure your aware of, has made headlines in recent weeks.

Second, I sincerely hope that this corridor is indeed a rail line and not a bus/rapid line. as great as these systems can be. they are indeed very slow. upon my exit from universal, I stand and wait for at least 20 min before the rapid bus arrives. and then another 15-20 min depending on traffic to get to the woodman stop. The return trip is even slower.

One key factor for me and the viability of the metro system is speed. I am not so much concerned about what method it is I get to my destination, but how long it takes to get there. So anything that metro can do to make this area accessible and fast would surely entice me, and I'm sure thousands of other Los Angeles residents to give up the highways and streets and increase fair revenue on this growing system.

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From: Kavita Patel [[email protected]]Sent: Monday, October 01, 2007 9:08 AMTo: Ginny-Marie CaseSubject: please unsubscribe me

‐‐‐ Ginny‐Marie Case <[email protected]> wrote: > > Westwood/Century City area: Hollywood/West Hollywood area: > Mid‐Wilshire/Koreatown area: Beverly Hills area: > Santa Monica area: Tuesday, > October 9Thursday, October 11Tuesday, October 16Wednesday, October > 17Thursday, October 18Emerson Middle School1650 Selby AvenueLos > AngelesPan Pacific Recreation Center7600 Beverly BoulevardLos > AngelesWilshire United Methodist Church4350 Wilshire BoulevardLos > AngelesBeverly Hills Public Library Auditorium444 North Rexford > DriveBeverly HillsSanta Monica Public Library 601 Santa Monica > Boulevard Santa MonicaAll meetings begin at 6:00 > p.m. and end at 8:00 p.m. > Kavita K. Patel MD, MSHS Email: [email protected] ____________________________________________________________________________________ Got a little couch potato? Check out fun summer activities for kids. http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=oni_on_mail&p=summer+activities+for+kids&cs=bz

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From: [email protected]: Sunday, September 30, 2007 4:40 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Isatel lastName: Dutra organization: address: 5373 Oakland St. city: Los Angeles state: ca zipcode: 90032 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Sunday, September 30, 2007 Time: 04:40 PM -0700

comment:

I AM ABSOLUTELY IN FAVOR OF THIS EXTENSION!

As a disabled professional living near Downtown LA, it is discouraging to find a job in West LA because it takes nearly 2-3 hours just to get there by bus lines, this is extremely unnecessary. The subway line makes so much sense and I believe is greatly needed.

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From: Rayne Roberts [[email protected]]Sent: Sunday, September 30, 2007 9:31 AMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Comment Form - not working

Hi, I would like to be added to the mailing list but I would also like to submit a comment. On the website, it says Comment/Question Form: Click here to fill out a form to leave us your questions, comments, or be added to our mailing list ([email protected]) But there is nothing to "click" or no form that appears. Please fix this ASAP so I can leave a comment and encourage fellow commuters to do the same. Thank you! -Rayne Roberts

Get news, entertainment and everything you care about at Live.com. Check it out!

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From: [email protected]: Saturday, September 29, 2007 3:58 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Andre lastName: Morimoto organization: address: 1634 Molina Lane city: Gardena state: CA zipcode: 90248 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Saturday, September 29, 2007 Time: 03:58 PM -0700

comment:

I would like to see the MTA extend the Purple line to Santa Monica via a combination of subway and above-ground alignments.

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From: Ira Yasnogorodsky [[email protected]]Sent: Saturday, September 29, 2007 10:35 AMTo: [email protected]: Subway to the Sea

To whom it may concern: I have been a resident of Los Angeles for almost 25 years. A subway extension, either through santa monica blvd. or wilshire would be highly welcomed. It is a shame that other cities have such great subway systems and LA is left behind. Currently, I am temporarily living in Madrid and am so impressed by the subway system. It is so easy to get from place to place. With rising gas prices and environmental concerns as well as unbearable traffic congestion in Los Angeles, it is time for a subway to extend along the Westside. Thanks. Ira Yasnogorodsky

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From: Dan Wentzel [[email protected]]Sent: Friday, September 28, 2007 10:45 PMTo: Westside ExtensionSubject: Official Input on Westside Transit extension.

Dear Sir or Madam representing the MTA, Thank you for finally moving forward on this much needed and much appreciated project. I have looked at the times when there will be a public forum and I may not be able to attend any of them. I wanted to give my input on what I believe the Westside Extension of public transit should be. Would you please forward this e-mail to the appropriate persons? Thank you! I have fully read the information on this project currently on the MTA website, have been following this matter for years, and took classes in urban transportation policy and planning at Columbia University's School of International & Public Affairs. I am also a full-time transit rider and do not own a car. This issue is extremely important to me as it is to so many people. Not only will the quality of their lives rest with what decision is made, the economic and environmental future of Southern California may be at stake as well. The current issue is whether to extend mass transit from Hollywood/Highland and from Wilshire/Western out of Santa Monica and how to do that. Here is my recommendation: I passionately believe that this project should be a subway and it should cover two alignments. Most of what is discussed is going east to west. As a resident of Santa Monica, let me recommend the route from west to east. - Santa Monica Transit Terminal (transfer to Exposition Line) - 4th Street & Wilshire - 14th Street & Wilshire - 26th Street & Wilshire - Bundy & Wilshire - Barrington & Wilshire - Veterans Hospital - Sepulveda & Wilshire - Westwood & Wilshire - Westwood & Santa Monica - Beverly Glen & Santa Monica - Century City (Avenue of the Stars & Constellation) (transfer between both wings of the alignment) - Wilshire & Santa Monica (transfer between both wings of the alignment) Alignment 1) The Purple Line extension -- At this point, one alignment takes the following route from Wilshire & Santa Monica: - Beverly Drive & Wilshire - La Cienega & Wilshire - Fairfax & Wilshire - La Brea & Wilshire - Crenshaw & Wilshire - Western & Wilshire Alignment 2) An extension of the "Red Line") -- Would go from Wilshire & Santa Monica to the following: - Canon & Wilshire - San Vicente & Santa Monica - La Cienega & Santa Monica - Fairfax & Santa Monica

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- Sunset & La Brea - Hollywood & Highland An alternative route for Alignment (2) could go from the following: - Century City - Wilshire & Santa Monica - Wilshire & Beverly Drive - Wilshire & La Cienega - Beverly & La Cienega - Santa Monica & La Cienega - Santa Monica & Fairfax - Sunset & La Brea - Hollywood & Highland I believe BOTH legs are essential. While I think light rail is more appropriate for most other parts of Los Angeles County, From Downtown to Hollywood to West Hollywood/Beverly Hills to Mid-Wilshire to Century City to Santa Monica are too developed for surface level rail and a subway is needed. The sooner these alignments are built the better. I also believe they can be constructed safely and the experiences with BART in San Francisco in 1989 and Tokyo transit demonstrate that subways can be built earthquake safe. For these two alignments to have maximal value, I am hoping along with this the Green Line will be extended to LAX, then up the westside to UCLA, over/through the Sepulveda Pass and into the Valley. This will allow transfers to/from Metrolink, the Orange Line, both alignments of the Purple Line, the Green Line and numerous rapid and local bus lines. In addition, but by no means instead of a subway, Wilshire Blvd. should also have dedicated bus lanes during rush hour as might Santa Monica Blvd. I do want to say how grateful I am that MTA bus service has improved over the past decade. It is my hope that these new lines will not come at the expense of the bus improvements that have been made. However, as a transit rider, I have to say that I do not agree with bus-only extremists who want all rail abandoned for bus improvements only. This policy would be an economic and environmental disaster. It would only add to the congestion currently on the roads and would not spur development that is more sustainable for the long term -- nor would sufficient people get out of their cars. The organization calling itself the "Bus Riders Union" does not speak for me or for anyone I know who depends on the bus. The great silent majority of bus riders recognize we need rail improvements as well. The "BRU" are sincere in their beliefs, but they are sincerely wrong and misinformed. Thank you for taking the time to solicit public input. I look forward to the safe, speedy, and affordable construction of these extensions to the Westside. Good luck with this and all of the other worth MTA projects. Best Regards, Dan Wentzel ----------------------- Dan Wentzel 1228 10th Street, Apt. 3 Santa Monica, California 90401-1937 Tel: 310-413-8653 E-mail: [email protected]

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From: [email protected]: Friday, September 28, 2007 8:55 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Sully lastName: Carter organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, September 28, 2007 Time: 08:55 PM -0700

comment:

I feel that you should definatly build the subway!!!!!!!

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From: [email protected]: Friday, September 28, 2007 7:07 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Questions/Comments

******************************************************************************* firstName: Dion lastName: Noravian organization: address: city: state: CA zipcode: 91214 email: [email protected] Submit: Submit Date: Friday, September 28, 2007 Time: 07:07 PM -0700

comment:

Fantastic! finally. Here are my ideas for the area. Expo to Santa Monica through the row is a must. Purple Line down Wilshire to at least the 405 should be built in one shot (reduce costs and connect to UCLA / Museum row), A Hollywood Connector from H/H through Sunset and connecting with the purple line around the Grove area, a 405 parallel line under the mountains from the valley to LAX connecting with purple, Expo, Crenshaw, Green and LAX Express in the future. Please please get these built asap. By the way, wither grade separated LRT or preferably Subway to handle the future growth and to promote TOD's.

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From: Dan Wentzel [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, September 27, 2007 3:37 PMTo: [email protected]: Please add me to your contact/mailing list.

Hi. I am very interested in this project. I would like to see two subway alignments, one on Santa Monica and one on Wilshire meeting in Century City and then going out to Santa Monica. And bus-only lanes will probably need to built on Wilshire too.

In any event, I will be attending the public information forum and would like to be included on your mailing list.

My information is as follows

Dan Wentzel 1228 10th Street, Apt. 3 Santa Monica, California 90401-1937 Tel: 310-413-8653 E-mail: [email protected]

Thank you!

____________________________________________________________________________________ Pinpoint customers who are looking for what you sell. http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/

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From: Gaye Smith [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, September 27, 2007 1:35 PMTo: [email protected]: Buses #4 & 704

I commute from Silver Lake to Century City most days between 8 and 9 am and back to Silver Lake between 6 and 7 PM. The 704 buses are usually very crowded by the time they get to the Avenue of the Stars/Santa Monica Blvd. stop in the evening. So, I usually wait for the next Bus #4. However, it is sometimes 20 – 25 minutes between the #4 buses in the evening. Can the number of buses servicing that area increase during the peak evening period? Thank you.

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From: MaryAnn Filer [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, September 27, 2007 11:53 AMTo: [email protected]: MORE PLEASE!

It's delightful to take the bus.......however, I would like to request MORE buses to run up Ave of the Stars & Century Park East. It is definitely wonderful to have the double buses on the #4 Line. Thank you for all that you do........You bring many people a great daily and consistent joy. Thank you again. Peace.

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From: Tony Fernandez [[email protected]]Sent: Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:11 AMTo: Westside ExtensionSubject: Extend the Red Line to the Purple Line

The Purple Line should follow Wilshire for the most part since it is our most dense corridor. However, people from Hollywood should be able to get to Santa Monica through West Hollywood in a subway. This line has been popularly called the Pink Line and it would be a great addition to our system. Also, a spur for the Purple Line would be needed that connects to Century City and UCLA. This way, there would techinically be two Purple Lines: The Purple Line via Century City and The Purple Line via Wilshire Blvd. This would create an entire system for the Westside and would get to all major trip generators in the Westside. If a Venice Line will be built, then it must not have any at-grade crossings. Light-rail would be a good idea since Venice is so wide, but it should not affect traffic, and elevated light-rail may be an option.

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From: allison m. [[email protected]]Sent: Wednesday, September 26, 2007 1:43 PMTo: [email protected]: Westside Extension Transit Corridor Comments

Hi, I just wanted to write in support of BRT bus only lanes, light rail, or subway extension. I understand the political and economic realities don't always support subway extension, but the BRT plan on your website should have been and should still be implemented already. Light synchronization, bus only lanes, and next bus technology is not that expensive to put on Wilshire in comparison to a subway. The Orange Line model should be considered the very minimum in the quest to move Wilshire traffic via public transit. Both Santa Monica and Wilshire desperately need that, and I agree with all of the destinations that have been listed as stops for the expansion projects. It's pretty pathetic that we're one of the only cities that has no proper public transit to UCLA, a major destination for students, faculty, tourists, and theatregoers alike. The basic message: get your tuchus moving!!! Thanks, Allison Mannos Los Angeles, CA 90029

Pinpoint customers who are looking for what you sell.

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From: Joseph Smith [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, September 25, 2007 5:24 PMTo: [email protected]: Support for Westside Extension via subway

To whom it may concern, I would like to extend my overwhelming support and enthusiasm for the Westside Extension Transit Corridor project. Specifically, I support the following: 1. A need to alleviate congestion on the Westside. This is obvious from any City Planning Commission, City Council, City Council Committee and Neighborhood Council meeting city-wide. Further, the right kind of public transit is the best answer moving forward at this point. 2. As for preferred mode of transit, I am 100-percent behind a major extension of our subway system. As Los Angeles prepares for future transit options, we need to focus mass transit alternatives below-grade and not contribute to an already congested at-grade with increased buses and light rail. While I understand it is cheaper to put increased mass transit at-grade, it is not the most efficient means of planning for the future along major transit corridors. Our streets can only swell so far with added alternatives and auto traffic. Subways are great given that they are not impacted by at-grade congestion, arterial crossings and intersections or weather. Even though utilizing the current Red Line is out of my way (for travel in/out of Downtown), I use it as much as possible given that I am a huge advocate for below-grade transit; it's quick, cheap and fun. Every great city has an exhaustive system, as should ours. Further, we must prioritize locating cheap public parking near various stations to help incentivize ridership. 3. As for recommended alignments, I think there should be two extensions constructed: - Extend the Purple Line from Wilshire/Western station via Wilshire Blvd to Santa Monica Blvd, and west on Santa Monica Blvd to Century City, then continuing down Santa Monica Blvd to Bundy area, turning south to meet up with the Expo Line near Olympic and Pico, then have it head south (on the south side of the 405 alignment) to LAX and link up with the Green Line. - Extend the Red Line from Hollywood/Highland proceeding west on Hollywood Blvd, transitioning to Santa Monica Blvd to Century City, then transitioning to Wilshire Blvd near Westwood Blvd (make sure to get it close enough to UCLA to allow for student ridership) and proceeding along Wilshire Blvd to downtown Santa Monica (at least to 2nd Street / near the Pier). 4. As noted above, I am all for extending our subway system as comprehensive as possible. It is ridiculous to imagine not extending the subway through major areas such as Century City, UCLA, Santa Monica and the heavy residential areas of West LA. I support terminating the Red Line subway in Santa Monica near the Santa Monica Pier (to allow inner City folks the ability to take below-grade transit to the beach) and the Purple Line Subway at LAX (with transfer points at the Expo Line and Green Line). Thank you for the opportunity to share my comments and I am very excited to see Metro taking a sincere look at future transit alternatives for this City. The only thing I fear is that the Metro administration favors purchasing additional buses (as already demonstrated this year) over taking the substantial financial risk of constructing below-grade transit. I do not support an increase in bus routes for future transpo planning, nor do I favor an increase in at-grade light rail. Once we have proper below-grade lines, we can proceed with expanding bus circulators, etc.

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Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Joseph Smith 24255 Pacific Coast Highway #100 Malibu, CA 90263 (818) 568-8704 [email protected] My office is located in the City of Los Angeles (Hancock Park).

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From: Russell, Bruce S. [[email protected]]Sent: Friday, September 21, 2007 4:03 PMTo: [email protected]: the link to the study area map on the overview page does not work.

Bruce Russell | Carter & Burgess | Managing Principal - Los Angeles | 213.239.1301 | 213.239.1357 fax | [email protected] | www.c-b.com

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: Westside Extension [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 5:14 PMTo: Ginny-Marie Case; Clarissa FilgiounSubject: FW: Westside extension alignmentsAttachments: Westside Ext-West Section.jpg; Westside Ext-East Section.jpg

From: Mark Brown [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 4:45 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Westside extension alignments

Dear Mr. Mieger, I would strongly urge the MTA to evaluate alignments that include stations at the Beverly Center/Cedars Sinai and at The Grove. These two locations are large trip generators that are active at all times of the day and need to be included in the system. To bypass them would not only only be foolish but would ignore the some of the many needs of the corridor. For a major infrastructure investment that will be here for at least a century, we need to make sure that we locate stations where they best make sense. The two branches (one via West Hollywood and one via the Purple Line) must both be constructed as one system. Huge volumes of bus and vehicle traffic travel from Hollywood to the westside daily. In fact, if only one corridor were to built, I would recommend the Hollywood-Santa Monica branch be built first with a connection open in Beverly Hills to accommodate a Purple Line extension in the future (design for it now). Wilshire Blvd can easily accommodate an exclusive bus lane for the 720/920, and the Santa Monica Blvd corridor cannot for the 704. But both must be constructed. The westside rail line should be built entirely as a subway and should terminate at the 4th Street/Colorado Expo Line station. A station in Westwood Village (not outside of it on Veteran or on busy pedestrian-unfriendly Wilshire) is a must. All stations should have access that is in a pedestrian-friendly location--for example not on busy streets unless there are wide sidewalks and as much in central locales as possible. Transit is a pedestrian-oriented mode of travel, and stations should be designed as such. In Beverly Hills, a station should be located inside the downtown triangle rather than on its edge (not adjacent to residential neighborhoods on Santa Monica Blvd , for instance). I have attached maps outlining recommended routes and stations that need to be studied. The westside extension(s) may be the most important in the entire system. I truly hope that we build a system that makes best use of ridership potential and has stations where people want to go rather than "building it and they will come". This is the only chance we have to get it right. Please keep that in mind. Thank you so very much for the opportunity to provide my recommendations. Mark Brown 1741 Colby Ave. 301 Los Angeles, CA 90025 [email protected]

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: J Wright Concepts [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 10:32 AMTo: [email protected]: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected];

[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

Subject: Westside Alternative AnalysisAttachments: Westside Alternative-Metro 101607.pdf

Jerard Wright 685 South Lucas, Suite 502 Los Angeles, CA 90017 October 16, 2007 To the Westside Alternative Analysis team; The Westside is well overdue for mass transit infrastructure improvements. In this letter I would like to suggest an idea for a route for the subway corridor and stops that will maximize the effectiveness and desirability of this rail corridor and it's complimentary parts, in both a Short and Long term applications. Short Term: Plan, build and operate a branch of the Expo LRT utilizing old Sepulveda ROW or corridor of approximate proximity to UCLA/Westwood Lot 32. Something practical that wouldn't take forever to fund and build can be implemented with a corridor that would cost-effectively serve the Westside mobility needs until the subway arrives to at least Westwood. This would run north of the future Expo/Sepulveda intersection and be built as wye and utilize (if possible) in an elevated configuration on the Sepulveda Blvd Right-of-way or on the industrial zoned lots a block away from Sepulveda. This branch would make stops at: * Santa Monica Blvd to serve the 3 high rise office complexes. * Wilshire Blvd/UCLA Lot 32 between on Wilshire Blvd between Gayley and Veteran. Home to LA's 2nd CBD. Between the Wilshire and Santa Monica Blvd stations the elevated LRT would run along the edge of Westwood Park and cut through the old Federal Building site on route to Wilshire/Gayley. This corridor would serve three purposes; 1) When the Subway continues westward to Westwood, this LRT will serve as a feeder to the future subway with service operating between; Westwood to Santa Monica - to eliminate the close service duplication with Expo Phase 2 west to Santa Monica 2) The Expo Branch to Westwood would serve the large UCLA off campus population in Palms, Culver City and Mid-City that will feed this subway for trips to Century City and Beverly Hills.

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3) Finally, It's other purpose is to start the framework for a future north-south corridor connecting the San Fernando Valley and the Westside parallel to the 405 Freeway and Sepulveda Pass. Long Term. Wilshire-West Subway HRT Corridor with 2 route options. (See attached PDF) Option A: Wilshire Corridor to Westwood with Cedars and Century City deviations For this mass transit investment to bring the biggest ROI for the Metro Region, it needs to go underground and away from the straight Wilshire Corridor at only two points to serve two bustling and vital regional centers as indicated on many regional planning studies and to serve the biggest immediate need, this subway needs a MOS to Westwood, with a long term vision to Santa Monica. In addition with the Crenshaw-Prairie corridor currently undergoing its Alternative Analysis provides an once in a lifetime opportunity to create a highly effective integrated transportation network that increases the regions chances for very scarse federal funds even with a short MOS to Fairfax because of the connectivity with Crenshaw Corridor there will not have in-fighting but instead the various connected regions would work together to help earn a larger share of the funding pie. From Wilshire/Western, the line will go straight down Wilshire making stops at: * No stop at Wilshire/Crenshaw based off the low density land-uses, huge politcal opposition by Hancock Park and very restrictive Historic Protection Overlay zoning HPOZ, transit connections and the close proximity of Wilshire/Western station this station is not neccessary. * Wilshire/La Brea (Future integrated transfer to the Crenshaw Corridor) There are new dense, mixed-use urban developments and a growing renaissance along the Miracle Mile that will be further strengthed with this subway. This stop is a prime location for a connection with the Crenshaw Corridor because of these activities and improves regional potential to extend the Crenshaw Corridor north to Hollywood on La Brea Avenue. * Wilshire/Fairfax-Museum Row. With LACMA, Peterson Museum, Tar Pits, Museum Square, many media companies headquartered here ,the western end of the Miracle Mile and close proximity to the dense Park La Brea apartments, this location is optimal for a subway stop. The route stays on Wilshire until San Vicente where the route turns northward and stops at: * Beverly Center and Cedars Sinai Medical Center. Cedars Sinai is a world renowned medical facility and research center, that serves as a focal point for that area. Beverly Center compliments Cedars is it provides a focal point of Commercial activity. The surrounding area has the zoning and land use now and in the future to activate and thrive denser activity and development with the opening of the subway as compared to the narrow lots and protected zoning of the Wilshire/La Cienega area. The location of the station will be within a 5-10 min walk down San Vicente Blvd to attractions such as the Pacific Design Center and West Hollywood nightlife that would faciliate denser land-uses and activities and can physically link and impact West Hollywood with this subway line immediately. Making this small diversion helps ensure that a future connection tying this area to Hollywood/Highland via the Sunset Strip and West Hollywood, as shown on (the map). This would reduce about 1 mile of duplicative tunneling that would be in competition with each other and limits funding opportunities. Next up is; * Wilshire/Beverly Drive. 50,000 jobs in a small area and majority of those working in those jobs come from outside of Beverly Hills. The route continues on and diverts Wilshire again to serve:

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* Century City. With the high rise offices and current modernization and redevelopment of the area the subway will cement the area as LA's 3rd Central business district. Finally it proceeds to a stop at * Westwood (Gayley/Wilshire Blvd). LA's second CBD with close to 100,000 jobs and over 40,000 UCLA students in the area everyday and is one of the busiest intersections in the city and the nation, this area is crying for high capacity transit service. While this subway corridor to only Westwood contains 6 new stations, they will be the locations of highest activity, density and provide good use of the Metro Connections model of Hub-spoke design and provide the fastest, cost effective and most usable route choice on opening day. In the future, with funding and ridership opportunities, the subway could extend west towards Santa Monica, stopping at the following locations: * Veterans Administration ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/Bundy ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/26th ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/14th ("Phase 2") * 4th/Colorado (Future Expo Line terminus) In the mean time, LRT service as described in the short term solution with the cost-effective proposed branch of Expo Line to Westwood would serve and fill this void until the need and demand for a direct subway extension from Westwood to Santa Monica is requested. Option B: Straight Wilshire Corridor with integrate North-South Bus Only lanes/Bus Subways. Ultimately if the straight line Wilshire corridor is used, there should be an additional overlay plan to study Bus-only lanes to run least one mile North (Beverly Blvd) and South (Olympic or Pico Blvd) from Wilshire Blvd on the busy and higher ridership North-south corridors such as Western, La Brea, Fairfax and La Cienega Blvd. Subway stops from Wilshire/Western are: * Wilshire/La Brea * Wilshire/Fairfax * Wilshire/La Cienega * Wilshire/Beverly Drive. * Wilshire/Santa Monica * Westwood * Veterans Administration ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/Bundy ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/26th ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/14th ("Phase 2") * 4th/Colorado (Future Expo Line terminus) ("Phase 2") There should be consideration to study short Bus subways that will facilate direct transfers from the Subway onto the buses- with multiple door boarding and outside fare collection- to hit destinations that are not directly on Wilshire very quickly, such as on the Fairfax stop it can serve the Farmer's Market, Grove and CBS Television City. In addition this will need to be investigated since these areas are land-locked making finding locations for bus transfer facilities or space on sidewalks for high capacity bus shelters/stops difficult. The short bus subways/bus only lanes provide an exceptional long term need to serve and provide an effective feeder to the subway utilizing an existing technolgy (the bus) but operating it with faster operations (pre-paid

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booarding, boarding on all doors, separations from traffic) without new orphan technologies such as Monorails or Personal People Mover shuttles that eat up scarse transit dollars. To conclude, the Westside needs solutions to improve mobility in both the short and long term and make the area accessible to other areas of LA county. With the right solutions with an extension of the Wilshire Subway to at least Westwood serving Cedars Sinai and Century City and tying into future transit projects such as Crenshaw Corridor hitting Wilshire to LAX and Expo Line (from Santa Monica to Downtown) helps ensure that LA is building an efficient transit network that will be well used from Opening day and for years to come and makes sure that we have the right pieces in place to grab those scarse federal funds so that LA can build more of it. Thank you for your time and consideration on this matter. Sincerely, Jerard Wright -- The Wright Concept, Jerard Wright- Executive Director [email protected] 323.919.9424 (office) CC: Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Council President Eric Garcetti, Councilmember Wendy Greuel, Councilmember Bernanrd Parks, Councilmember Tom LaBonge, Councilmember Jack Weiss, Councilmember Herb Wesson, County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky County Supervisor Yvonne Burke

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Ginny-Marie Case

From: J Wright Concepts [[email protected]]Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2007 3:06 PMTo: [email protected]: [email protected]: Westside Alternative AnalysisAttachments: Westside Alternative-Metro 101607.pdf

Jerard Wright 685 South Lucas, Suite 502 Los Angeles, CA 90017 October 16, 2007 To whom this may concern; The Westside is well overdue for mass transit infrastructure improvements. In this letter I would like to suggest an idea for a route for the subway corridor and stops that will maximize the effectiveness and desirability of this rail corridor and it's complimentary parts, in both a Short and Long term applications. Short Term: Plan, build and operate a branch of the Expo LRT utilizing old Sepulveda ROW or corridor of approximate proximity to UCLA/Westwood Lot 32. Something practical that wouldn't take forever to fund and build can be implemented with a corridor that would cost-effectively serve the Westside mobiility needs until the subway arrives to at least Westwood. This would run north of the future Expo/Sepulveda intersection and be built as wye and utilize (if possible) in an elevated configuration on the Sepulveda Blvd Right-of-way. This would make stops at: * Santa Monica Blvd to serve the 3 high rise office complexes. * Wilshire Blvd/ UCLA Lot 32 or 36 between on Wilshire Blvd between Gayley and Veteran. Between the Wilshire and Santa Monica Blvd stations the elevated LRT would run along the edge of Westwood Park and cut through the Old Federal Building site on route to Wilshire/Gayley. This corridor would serve a double duty as to create a future corridor connecting the San Fernando Valley and the Westside parallel to the 405 Freeway and Sepulveda Pass, and when the Subway does continue westward to Westwood, the LRT will serve as a feeder to the future subway with service operating between; Westwood to Santa Monica to eliminate the close service duplication with Expo Phase 2 and or Westwood to Downtown LA. Long Term. Wilshire-West Subway HRT Corridor with 2 route options. (See attached PDF) Option A: Wilshire Corridor to Westwood with Cedars and Century City deviations For this mass transit investment to bring the biggest ROI for the Metro Region, it needs to go underground and away from the straight Wilshire Corridor at only two points to serve two bustling and vital regional centers as indicated on many regional planning studies which this subway corridor would serve a vital link that aren't accesible by foot or the transfer from high speed corridor with large boarding transfers to buses very

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cumbersome and dimishes the transit value of those connections. Also to serve the biggest immediate need, this subway needs a MOS to Westwood, with a long term vision to Santa Monica. In addition with the Crenshaw-Prairie corridor currently undergoing its Alternative Analysis provides an opportunity to create a highly effective integrated transportation network that increases the regions chances for very scarse federal funds to help fund and build these lines, because region will not have in-fighting but instead the various connected regions would work together to help earn a larger share of the funding pie. From Wilshire/Western, the line will go straight down Wilshire making stops at: * No stop at Wilshire/Crenshaw based off the restricted land-uses and zoning, transit connections and the close proximity of Wilshire/Western station. * Wilshire/La Brea (Future integrated transfer to the Crenshaw Corridor) There are new dense, mixed-use urban developments and a growing renaissance along the Miracle Mile that will be further strengthed with this subway. * Wilshire/Fairfax-Museum Row The route stays on Wilshire until San Vicente where the route turns northward and stops at: * Beverly Center and Cedars Sinai Medical Center. Cedars Sinai is a world renowned medical facility and research center, that serves as a focal point for that area. The surrounding area has the zoning and land use now and in the future to activate and thrive denser activity and development with the opening of the subway as compared to the narrow lots and pretected zoning of the Wilshire/La Cienega area. The location of the station will be within a 5-10 min walk down San Vicente Blvd to attractions such as the Pacific Design Center and West Hollywood nightlife that would faciliate denser land-uses and activities and can physically link and impact West Hollywood with this subway line immediately. Making this diversion helps a future connection tying this area to Hollywood/Highland via the Sunset Strip and West Hollywood, as shown on Option A. This would reduce about 1 mile of duplicative tunneling that would be in competition with each other. Continuing through down Burton Way or via Earth Pressure Balance machines running diagonally deep under Beverly Hills it will make a stop at; * Wilshire/Beverly Drive The route continues on and diverts Wilshire again to serve: * Century City With the high rise offices and current modernization and redevelopment of the area the subway will cement the area as LA's 2nd or 3rd Central business district. Finally it proceeds to a stop at * Westwood (UCLA/Wilshire Blvd) While this subway corridor to only Westwood contains 6 new stations, they will be the locations of highest activity and provide good use of the Metro Connections model of Hub-spoke design and provide the fastest, cost effective and most usable route choice. In the future, with funding and ridership opportunities, the subway could extend west towards Santa Monica, stopping at the following locations; * Veterans Administration ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/Bundy ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/26th ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/14th ("Phase 2") * 4th/Colorado (Future Expo Line terminus)

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In the mean time, LRT service as described in the short term solution with the cost-effective proposed branch of Expo Line to Westwood would serve and fill this void until the need and demand for a direct subway extension from Westwood to Santa Monica is requested. Option B: Straight Wilshire Corridor with integrate North-South Bus Only lanes/Bus Subways. Ultimately if the straight line Wilshire corridor is used, there should be an additional overlay plan to study Bus-only lanes to run least one mile North (Beverly Blvd) and South (Olympic or Pico Blvd) from Wilshire Blvd on the major North-south corridors such as Western, La Brea, Fairfax and La Cienega Blvd. Subway stops from Wilshire/Western are: * Wilshire/La Brea * Wilshire/Fairfax * Wilshire/La Cienega * Wilshire/Beverly Drive. * Wilshire/Santa Monica * Westwood * Veterans Administration ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/Bundy ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/26th ("Phase 2") * Wilshire/14th ("Phase 2") * 4th/Colorado (Future Expo Line terminus) ("Phase 2") There should be consideration to study short Bus subways that will facilate direct transfers from the Subway onto the buses- with multiple door boarding and outside fare collection- to hit destinations that are not directly on Wilshire very quickly, such as on the Fairfax stop it can serve the Farmer's Market, Grove and CBS Television City. In addition this will need to be investigated since these areas are land-locked making finding locations for bus transfer facilities or space on sidewalks for high capacity bus shelters/stops difficult. The short bus subways/bus only lanes provide an exceptional long term need to serve and provide an effective feeder to the subway utilizing an existing technolgy (the bus) but operating it with faster operations (pre-paid booarding, boarding on all doors, separations from traffic) without new orphan technologies such as Monorails or Personal People Mover shuttles that eat up scars transit dollars. To conclude, the Westside needs solutions to improve mobility and make the area accessible to other areas of LA county. With the right solution with an extension of the Wilshire Subway to at least Westwood serving Cedars Sinai and Century City and tying into future transit projects such as Crenshaw Corridor and Expo Line helps ensure that LA is building an efficient transit network now and for years to come. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Jerard Wright -- The Wright Concept, Jerard Wright- Executive Director

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[email protected] 323.919.9424 (office)

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