The beleaguered Downtown streetcar project, which doesn't yet have a confirmed pricetag or opening date, is getting back on track with a new project manager and a possible infusion of federal cash. The streetcar's main proponent, Councilmember Jose Huizar, reports via press release that San Francisco-based company URS has been hired to oversee construction, figure out a project timeline, resolve conflicts over utility relocation, and figure out how much the darn thing costs; URS helped build the streetcar systems in Portland and Seattle. DTLA's proposed line would connect South Park to Bunker Hill, and be operated by the Los Angeles Department of Transportation, the city agency behind the DASH and commuter express buses. And, just last week, the LADOT submitted a grant request with the Federal Transit Administration--the project could get up to $75 million. Even with the grant, the streetcar will probably need more money: An early estimate put the project at $150 to $160 million, and that doesn't include utility relocation costs. There's $11 million in the bank from Metro and the former Community Redevelopment Agency, as well as up to $62.5 million in committed funds thanks to a tax passed by DTLA voters last year. The difference could be made up with the FTA money, more state and federal grants, or a possible public/private partnership, all of which URS will investigate.
· Downtown Streetcar Archives [Curbed LA]
Filed under:
Loading comments...