Rail Projects

I was outraged to read the Dec. 28 Opinion article by Peter Gordon, Harry Richardson and James Moore of USC, alleging that I supported rail as the only congestion relief option for the region. That is nonsense. My record as a six-year board member of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority is clear.

I am a supporter of a balanced transportation program, including buses, high-occupancy vehicle lanes, light rail and other surface rail alternatives. I am a supporter of innovative alternative rail projects, such as diesel multiple units, which utilize existing rail lines and employ less expensive diesel-powered rail cars. DMU technology is the least expensive rail additive on the horizon; it uses existing rail rights of way and it can be placed into operation very quickly.

I also have been criticized for saying that we have got to finish what we started. Any reasonable and prudent person would know that to leave a gaping hole in the ground would be unthinkable and a waste of taxpayer funds. When I made that statement, it was in reference to the completion of the rail construction that is currently underway in Hollywood, Universal City and North Hollywood. I have supported Interim CEO Julian Burke’s recommendation that we suspend all work on three proposed Red Line rail extension projects until we get our financial situation in order. I take great umbrage at being quoted out of context by professors who should know better.

LARRY ZARIAN

MTA Board of Directors