To the editor: The Inglewood commuter plan is an outrageously expensive $2 billion boondoggle that will run just 1.6 miles and have just three stations. Who will benefit from it, other than the developers, consultants and advisers? Not the residents of Inglewood. (“Inglewood commuter is in jeopardy. It should be built,” Opinion, July 26)
This project is not designed to improve local residents' access to public transportation or connect them to jobs and services. Projects like this make ordinary citizens feel that their leaders are oblivious to their needs.
The line will cost more than $1.2 billion per mile to build and more than $33 million per year to operate. By comparison, Metro's K line, which will run 8.5 miles when fully opened next year and have eight stations, will cost less than $300 million per mile.
Developers say the project will allow people on the subway system to reach the Kia Forum, SoFi Stadium and the Intuit Dome, all in Inglewood. But those attending events there will be able to arrange their own transportation or use shuttle buses at a fraction of the cost.
The developers also claim it will support 17,000 jobs, but their project will result in more than 40 small businesses in Inglewood being forced out by eminent domain. These businesses were already creating jobs and their workers will lose them when they are forced to close.
Inglewood should be addressing the needs of its residents. Instead, the area’s school district is planning to close five campuses and city leaders are promoting the development of market-rate housing, when residents need affordable housing. Los Angeles County has a severe affordable housing crisis, with more than 75,000 people homeless.
For all these reasons, I removed $200 million earmarked for the people-transportation program from a federal funding bill and proposed an amendment to shift the funds to affordable housing. I hope the House of Representatives will pass my amendment this year.
Our efforts would be better spent focusing on the real needs of the people of Inglewood, rather than the convenience of the rich and privileged who can enjoy sports and entertainment.
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles)
