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METROLINK BREAKS GROUND ON SCORE PROJECT TO IMPROVE REGIONAL RAIL SERVICE

Metrolink held a groundbreaking ceremony at the Burbank-Downtown Station to mark the start of the Burbank Junction Speed Improvement Project.

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Burbank Junction Speed Improvement Project Will Reduce Travel Times to Allow for Potentially More Frequent Train Operation

LOS ANGELES – Metrolink held a groundbreaking ceremony at the Burbank-Downtown Station to mark the start of the Burbank Junction Speed Improvement Project. The project is part of Phase 1 of the agency’s Southern California Optimized Rail Expansion (SCORE) program and aims to reduce travel times by allowing for increased speeds and more efficient operations. These improvements will lay the groundwork for the potential to provide passengers with wait times of no more than 30 minutes. 

“By improving track infrastructure, the Burbank Junction Speed Improvement Project is an important step toward greater regional mobility, while delivering economic growth through new jobs,” Metrolink Board Chair Ara Najarian said. “Metrolink appreciates its partnership with the City of Burbank on this enhancement and looks forward to working with other cities and agencies as our SCORE projects evolve.” 

The Burbank Junction Speed Improvement Project, located north of the Burbank-Downtown Station, will realign a portion of existing main line track, reconfigure and lengthen track, improve and replace approximately one half mile of existing track and install new right of way safety fencing.  

“It’s an exciting day for Metrolink as we begin work on this project that will eventually deliver more efficient train travel in the region, especially for riders along our Antelope Valley and Ventura County lines,” Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle said. “Metrolink’s SCORE program will, over the next few years, add more track while improving grade crossings, stations, and signals for our riders and in preparation for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.” 

The Burbank Junction Speed Improvement Project is funded by the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) through Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). Construction is scheduled to be completed in the Summer of 2023. For more information, please visit: metrolinktrains.com/SCORE. 

Press conference speaker quotes: 

Senator Anthony Portantino (25th District)  

“The Burbank Junction Speed Improvement project will bring new jobs, environmental benefits, and increased usage of regional public transportation,” said Senator Anthony Portantino. “Fewer vehicles on the road means fewer accidents and reduced air pollution and emissions. The improvements and updates will have significant positive impacts on our communities throughout the 25th Senate District for decades to come.”

Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) 

“The state’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) was created to fund transformative capital improvements that will modernize California’s rail, bus, and ferry transit systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly, vehicle miles traveled, and congestion,” said Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale). “Transportation touches everything, and the work of TIRCP and SCORE advance the effort to create safe, equitable and sustainable transit solutions that positively impact housing issues, access to job opportunities, and our health.”

L.A. County Supervisor and Metrolink Board Member Kathryn Barger

“Every day our service takes thousands of vehicles off our highways and local roads. But we have only scratched the surface of what Metrolink can achieve,” said L.A. County Supervisor and Metrolink Board Member Kathryn Barger. ” Our service will play an ever-increasing and important role in people’s ability to move around the region. So, I view this project as a first step in a great leap forward and I am so proud to celebrate it.”

Mayor Jess Talamantes (City of Burbank)  

“Metrolink’s Burbank Junction Speed Improvements Project will be a tremendous benefit to our city,” said City of Burbank Mayor Jess Talamantes. “On behalf of the City Council, I congratulate Metrolink on the groundbreaking of this milestone and look forward to our continued partnership in providing safer operations and increased service speeds for our community.”

Source: Metrolink

News

Tensions Rise Between Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association and LA Metro Over Sepulveda Pass Transit Project

“Disputes continue between Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association and LA Metro over Sepulveda Pass transit project, with tensions on the rise.”

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city near mountain during golden hour
A proposed aerial monorail system connecting Sepulveda Pass, with lush green hillsides and a bustling city skyline in the background
Photo by Roberto Nickson on Pexels.com

The ongoing dispute between the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association (SOHA) and LA Metro regarding a proposed mass transit project through the Sepulveda Pass has reached new heights. Recent exchanges of letters and differing opinions have intensified tensions, raising concerns over costs, environmental impacts, and the choice between an aerial monorail or underground rail system.

Metro CEO’s Response:
In response to SOHA’s information requests, Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins stated that most of the questions had already been publicly addressed and accused the association of basing their remaining queries on misinformation.

SOHA’s Demands and Threat:
Disapproving of tunneling for a subway due to potential hillside home damage, SOHA demanded cost estimates from Metro. In their letter dated Feb. 28, they threatened to lobby against grant funding unless answers were provided by March 14.

Continued Tensions:
On March 18, Bob Anderson, SOHA’s vice president, expressed dissatisfaction with Wiggins’ responses, stating that her letter was weak and denied the claim of misinformation. Wiggins responded with short answers that referred to previously addressed community meetings and public input.

Metro’s Future Plans:
Metro is considering six alternatives for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project, including an aerial monorail or mostly underground heavy rail. However, the costs for each option will be released to the public with the Draft Environmental Impact Report in early spring 2025.

Budget and Funding Challenges:
Metro’s budget for the project is approximately $8 billion, primarily from Measure M. SOHA estimates the rail project to cost over $25 billion, favoring a more cost-efficient monorail option at around $8 billion. Metro aims to leverage Measure M funds to attract additional local, state, and federal dollars.

Upcoming Steps:
Once the DEIR is released, Metro will extend the comment period to 60 days, though SOHA had requested 90 days. Despite court requirements for a 60-day review period, Metro may hold additional community meetings following the official review period.


The clash between SOHA and Metro intensifies, highlighting the challenges involved in developing a mass transit project through the Sepulveda Pass. As cost estimates, environmental concerns, and differing preferences prevail, the future of this ambitious undertaking remains uncertain.

Source: Los Angeles Daily News and LA Metro

https://stmdailynews.com/sepulveda-pass-transit-debate-heavy-rail-vs-monorail-concerns/
https://www.dailynews.com/2024/03/18/metro-responds-to-sherman-oaks-homeowner-groups-criticism-of-sepulveda-pass-transit-plan/

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Lifestyle

All Aboard the #AmtrakTakeMeThere Adventure: Embracing Real Stories of Train Travel

Join #AmtrakTakeMeThere program for a chance to share real train travel stories and explore hidden American gems through your lens! Apply now!

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Amtrak’s latest endeavor, the #AmtrakTakeMeThere social media residency program, is a golden opportunity for budding creatives to explore the vast American landscapes through the lens of train travel. The initiative promises an enriching experience for those passionate about sharing authentic travel tales with their followers.

By offering complimentary round-trip journeys on Amtrak’s long-distance routes, coupled with a stipend of up to $1,000 for travel expenses, the program aims to showcase the beauty of train travel through the eyes of everyday adventurers rather than traditional influencers. This initiative serves as a refreshing take, focusing on genuine stories rather than glossy portrayals.

Emphasizing the essence of real experiences, Amtrak is seeking individuals who can narrate their travel escapades in a relatable manner. Whether you are a retiree, a parent, or a young creative spirit, this opportunity beckons to all who wish to share their unique journey through captivating writing, photography, video, and engaging social media content.

The application process, open to legal U.S. residents above 18 years, invites applicants to articulate their reasons for choosing train travel and why Amtrak resonates with them. This inclusive approach ensures a diverse pool of applicants, each bringing their distinct perspectives to the table.

The allure of Amtrak’s long-distance routes lies in the unseen American vistas they unveil, from the majestic Cascade Mountains to the serene Pacific Ocean vistas aboard the Coast Starlight. Moreover, the allure of the California Zephyr promises a journey through the Rockies and Sierra Nevada mountains, offering breathtaking scenery that captivates the soul.

As applications flood in until the stroke of midnight on January 31, the anticipation builds to see who will be selected for this enchanting expedition. With a promise of authentic storytelling and a glimpse into the heart of train travel, the #AmtrakTakeMeThere program is poised to redefine travel narratives, one social media post at a time.

https://www.glendalestar.com/business/article_a50636de-dc09-11ee-acde-1383c283add0.html

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City

The Battle Over Intercity Rail: A Political Showdown in Arizona

Arizona’s political divide over intercity rail: GOP opposes, Dems advocate for sustainable transit solutions.

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passenger train at a train station at sunset
Photo by Maisy Vi on Pexels.com

Republican lawmakers in Arizona are taking a firm stance against the development of intercity rail, particularly a commuter rail between Phoenix and Tucson. Their recent move to impose stringent conditions on the state Department of Transportation, including barring the acceptance of federal funds for commuter rail, has sparked controversy and division along party lines.

Senator Jake Hoffman, a vocal opponent of the commuter rail project, argues that investing in what he deems as outdated technology would be a waste of money, citing low ridership numbers on existing light rail systems. He insists that the focus should be on enhancing road infrastructure like the I-10 instead.

On the other side, Governor Katie Hobbs and Democratic lawmakers are advocating for sustainable transportation solutions, including the potential revival of Amtrak service between Phoenix and Tucson. They emphasize the importance of environmental considerations, clean air for future generations, and reducing carbon emissions.

The clash between the two parties reflects a larger debate on transportation priorities and environmental concerns. While Republicans stress individual freedom and the efficiency of personal automobiles, Democrats highlight the need for greener modes of transportation and addressing climate change.

As the legislative battle continues, the fate of intercity rail in Arizona hangs in the balance. The decision on whether to proceed with the project will have far-reaching implications for the state’s transportation infrastructure and environmental policies. Stay tuned as the Senate deliberates on this contentious issue.

https://tucson.com/news/local/government-politics/tucson-phoenix-commuter-train-jake-hoffman/article_32e22568-c9f3-11ee-a111-071dc300ee63.html

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