COMMERCE WATCH : $53-Million Rescue

It was a close call, but the concerted efforts of key members of the California delegation have rescued $53 million in federal funds for the Alameda Corridor improvement project from the congressional chopping block.

These funds were set aside in 1982 and 1987 to help fund reconstruction of the rail link between the Los Angeles/Long Beach ports and major rail terminals. But this money was never spent because of bickering among the many localities through which the rail line passes, as well as federal directives on how the money could be spent. So Washington budget cutters tried to eliminate these funds. Sen. Barbara Boxer, Rep. Jerry Lewis (R-Redlands) and Mayor Richard Riordan deserve credit for saving them.

Now the challenge for local agencies is to use this money not just quickly but responsibly. The corridor improvement is one of this region’s highest infrastructure priorities. The rebuilt rail line will significantly speed goods to and from the ports.

Although the ports efficiently move cargo into and out of ships, the existing rail lines taking that cargo to and from the ports are so rickety, and the neighborhoods through which they pass are so congested, that rail cars slow to as little as 5 m.p.h.

Corridor improvements--which include submerging the track and widening overhead bridges and nearby streets for automobiles--have long enjoyed consensus from federal, state and local officials. It’s been the details over which bureaucrats have endlessly squabbled. That must stop now. Congress is unlikely to be so tolerant next year.