IRVINE

Citing the need to work out issues with the Orange County Transportation Authority, the City Council last week postponed to its Jan. 12 meeting its recommendation to the OCTA on the proposed countywide urban rail system.

Although three of four city commissions recommended that the rail system not be built through Irvine, the council seems to favor the plan. Mayor Christina L. Shea pointed out the need for transportation alternatives and how the city has etched the rail system in its master plan.

Councilman Larry Agran said the system is important for Irvine and the Millennium Plan, its favored mixed-use alternative to an international airport at the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station. “We’re going to fight for the system best for us,” Agran said.

In the past, however, the council has demanded that the rail system exclude Barranca Parkway. Instead, it will follow either the San Diego Freeway or the San Diego Creek Channel.