Coliseum Parking Costs

Here’s a solution to the parking problem and its funding dilemma faced by the planners trying to bring NFL football to the Coliseum (“Key Officials Say Cost Hurts Ovitz Coliseum Plan,” May 25). Instead of investing the $200 million-plus it would take to build elaborate parking structures, an investment in a new light rail linking the area to downtown L.A. should be made. The rail line could interconnect with the existing Metro Red and/or Blue lines. This same line could also be extended in the future down the Exposition rail corridor.

At a cost of less than $50 million per mile, four miles of a new light rail system could be constructed to serve the Coliseum, dramatically improve mobility to USC, the new Staples Arena, nearby museums and improve mobility for people living in the area. Rather than build extensive parking structures that will sit empty for most of the year, the city, state and future team owners should invest in transportation that can quickly move large numbers of people, eliminate automobile congestion and pollution and provide a benefit 365 days per year. Through a light rail system and improved management of existing parking resources, there would be no need to build any new parking structures--particularly ones subsidized by taxpayers.

CRAIG PALS

Fullerton

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When are the billionaire moguls of football going to realize that L.A., L.A. County and California state will not contribute to their obscene coffers? We will not go into debt for eight or 10 games a year. We’re doing fine. If the NFL owners want a team here, let them finance it, or (perish the thought) let’s sell shares.

I think any politician who advocates public money should start thinking about another job.

TED KALNAS

Van Nuys

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Re “Ovitz’s Coliseum Design Dazzles NFL in Preview,” May 23:

After all is said and done in Exposition Park, Michael Ovitz and company still would not give a tinker’s damn for downtown Los Angeles. If it should turn out that his group prevails and wins the new NFL franchise, downtown would be all the better for it. Ed Roski and Eli Broad could then put their heft and imagination to work on Bunker Hill, the historic core and in South Park. Glory be!

JOHN CRANDELL

Westwood Village