(Sherman Oaks, CA) For decades the San Fernando Valley’s two million residents were at an incredible disadvantage for mass transit options. A State law passed decades ago forbid light-rail in the Valley. As Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority launched a massive expansion of light-rail throughout Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley was left with only the Orange Line, bus rapid transit.
In Assemblymember Nazarian’s first term in office, he passed AB 577, which overturned the ban on light-rail in the San Fernando Valley. This legislation has opened the door for real mass transit options in the Valley.
With Measure M on the ballot this November—an initiative that increases the sales tax by five cents to pay for an unprecedented expansion of mass transit options throughout Los Angeles—the San Fernando Valley is expecting to receive funding for several mass transit projects that will reshape our communities and reduce traffic congestion.
Several projects being considered for the San Fernando Valley are:
- Immediate Orange Line improvements, grade separation, increased speed & capacity;
- Sepulveda Pass mass transit line to connect the SFV with the Westside;
- East Valley Light-Rail connecting the Orange Line Van Nuys station to the Sylmar/San Fernando Metrolink Station;
- Bus Rapid Transit connecting the Orange Line to Gold Line in Pasadena with the option to convert to Light Rail;
- Orange Line Conversion to Light-Rail;
- Two new express lanes on the 405.
This measure allows Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority to effectively address the growing public transportation needs of local governments, alleviate congestion and take advantage of available transportation resources.
Adrin Nazarian represents the 46th Assembly District, serving the San Fernando Valley communities of Hollywood Hills, Lake Balboa, North Hills, North Hollywood, Panorama City, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Toluca Lake, Universal City, Van Nuys, and Valley Village.