Overview
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is conducting an environmental review of the Regional Connector Transit Corridor, a project that would create an almost 2-mile transit link between the Gold and Blue Line light rail transit (LRT) systems through downtown Los Angeles. This Regional Connector would eventually connect not only with projects currently under construction including the Gold Line Eastside Extension, which is expected to be operational in summer 2009, and the Expo Line, which will connect Downtown to Culver City by 2010, but also with potential new light rail transit projects. Metro is now exploring two alternative alignments for the Regional Connector light rail transit (LRT) extension that would serve several new downtown stations and allow through-service between the regional LRT lines. By providing continuous through service between these lines, the Regional Connector will improve access to both local and regional destinations – and help create a true transportation network for the region.
Where We Are in the Process
Metro is currently in the initial 18-month Draft Environmental Impact Study/Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIS/EIR) phase of the Regional Connector Transit Corridor Project. This environmental review, which follows the Alternatives Analysis phase (AA), was authorized by the Metro Board at its January 2009 meeting. Moving forward for further study are two Build alternatives – an at-grade emphasis alternative via Second Street with a couplet on Main and Los Angeles streets, and an underground emphasis alternative via Second Street crossing First and Alameda streets at grade, as well as a No-Build alternative and a Transportation Systems Management alternative.
Public Scoping meetings were held March 30, 31, April 1 and 2 to provide the public an opportunity to provide comment as the Draft EIS/EIR proceeds into in-depth analysis of the alternatives. Written comments will be accepted until May 11, 2009 and may be sent via email to RegionalConnector@metro.net, or mailed to: Ms. Dolores Roybal Saltarelli, Project Manager Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
Benefits of the Regional Connector
- The Regional Connector benefits the entire Los Angeles County region — not just Downtown.
- The Regional Connector will enhance Metro Rail service by providing one continuous trip between the Pasadena Gold Line and Blue Line, and between the Eastside Gold Line and Expo Line.
- The Regional Connector will minimize the need for transfers, reducing one-way light rail trips across the County by 10 - 30 minutes or more.
- The Regional Connector will reduce station crowding, especially at peak hours.
- The Regional Connector will provide new access to Downtown attractions as well as regional destinations.
- The Regional Connector will increase regional mobility.
The Regional Connector will enable all Los Angeles County rail and bus transit as well as all intercity transit service to operate more efficiently and attract higher ridership, thus reducing roadway congestion, improving regional air quality and reducing the region’s carbon footprint.
Project Area
The project area encompasses approximately two square miles of downtown Los Angeles and includes the communities of Little Tokyo, the Arts District, the Historic Core, the Toy District, Bunker Hill, the Financial District, the Jewelry District, and the Civic Center. Project area map Project area map