SUBWAY

The Times had a lengthy article yesterday about a change of route for the proposed “subway to the sea.” For years the MTA has wanted to use the Wilshire corridor, which currently has the largest public transportation ridership. Now they are considering Santa Monica Blvd. as a possible alternative. Hmm.

First, where is it written in stone that the subway to the sea has to be a subway? God knows Los Angeles needs a better transportation system, but instead of digging a hole and then building a train, why not just build a train – or better yet, a monorail – and save half of the proposed $6 billion budget. In the 1960s a European company offered to build a monorail system in Los Angeles for free. I’ll bet they still have a phone. Why not call them?

Second, today’s ridership figures are based on our ineffective, out-of-date bus system. A fast, efficient, clean, quiet monorail would unquestionably pull in millions of new riders, whatever route it follows.

Finally, the real reason the MTA has been unable to secure the Wilshire route for the subway is that the wealthy and powerful residents of Hancock Park don’t want it there. They are afraid it will impact their pristine lifestyles. Well, boo-frigging-hoo! Imagine the nerve of the city, wanting to transport the general public through an exclusive neighborhood. We should probably give our Hancockers an additional tax cut – this is on top of what they’re already getting from Mr. Bush - to make up for the emotional stress. I feel just terrible.

a foot on either side