More ideas on transportation

Re “It’s wrong to waste a right of way,” column, Jan. 28

I’ve lived in the neighborhood where the Expo line is coming for more than 40 years and know the neighborhood intimately. Whichever route it takes, the nearest point to me is the same. Thus, I think I can offer a somewhat unbiased opinion.

Exposition Boulevard is without a doubt the best route. It would block far fewer existing intersections, using existing rail overpasses. It would be easier and cheaper to build. Construction would inconvenience far fewer businesses and commuters. It would be closer to Century City and UCLA. It would still cross Venice and Sepulveda boulevards and be just as close to Palms residents. In a sense it would open up an entirely new transit route, instead of just changing existing ones that already have significant bus service. In short, it’s a no-brainer.

STEVEN COKER

Los Angeles

The writer is a member of the South Robertson Neighborhood Council.

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I take issue with Steve Lopez’s claim that “there’s no preexisting railroad right of way along Venice Boulevard.” Of course there is. Venice is so wide because there used to be a rail line running down the middle.

If we really want to lessen the traffic mess in Century City, the rail line needs to be in Century City. For example, Santa Monica Boulevard used to have a rail line on it, and it forms the north border of Century City. On the other hand, the Expo line is quite a ways away from this dense area.

I’m really tired of journalists attacking neighborhoods as being selfish NIMBYs. People who call other people NIMBYs usually don’t live next to the developments they are advocating. And when journalists try to emphasize conflict in stories on land-use issues, why is it usually framed as pitting middle-class neighborhoods against poor people?

L.A.’s transit crisis was not created by folks in Cheviot Hills. Let’s put blame where it belongs: on selfish, developer-driven city councils and on the car, oil and tire companies that wiped out L.A.’s Pacific Electric Railway system. The super-rich got us into a big mess, and yet you’re trying to pit the rest of us against each other.

REX FRANKEL

Los Angeles

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How about offering tax credits for people who live five or fewer miles from work? I think it’s ridiculous to drive 20 to 50 miles each way. No wonder there’s such a big traffic problem. Maybe a little more incentive would help.

HUGH CASEY

Los Angeles