In a significant stride towards urban transit innovation, the city of Inglewood in California is set to construct a 1.6-mile automated people mover system, thanks to a colossal federal funding of approximately $1 billion. The capital investment grant, courtesy of the Federal Transit Administration, shoulders half of the total expenses required for the ambitious $2 billion Inglewood Transit Connector project. The project’s primary objective is to create an efficient transit link between the Metro K Line and pivotal locations including the Kia Forum, SoFi Stadium, and the soon-to-be home of the Los Angeles Clippers, the Intuit Dome.
Moving Towards Full Funding
Prior to this, Inglewood had successfully raised $873 million through a coalition of local, state, and federal resources. This latest funding infusion takes the total to around 85% of the necessary budget, incorporating a $200 million contingency reserve. Thus, the city is now within striking distance of the budget required to bring this transit vision to life.
Mayor Butts Welcomes the Investment
Inglewood’s Mayor, James T. Butts Jr., hailed the federal investment, lauding the cooperative efforts of various governmental tiers. He voiced optimism about the project’s potential to revolutionize transportation alternatives and stimulate the local economy. This is particularly relevant for the city’s downtown area, especially along Market Street.
Targeting the 2028 Summer Olympics
With an estimated capacity to carry 11,000 riders per hour, the proposed transit system is scheduled to be operational by the 2028 Summer Olympics. However, the project has not been without its critics. A city council-approved plan from April that will displace 41 businesses and 305 workers to make way for the construction of the people mover’s stations and maintenance facilities has drawn flak. Although the city has pledged to cover relocation costs, business owners remain apprehensive about the potential disruption to their operations.