Big Opportunities for 21st Century Investments
January 26, 2016
by Gary Toebben
When it comes to investing in Los Angeles’ transportation infrastructure, we are in a golden era. The promises of Measure R are becoming a reality with the Regional Connector, Purple Line extension and Crenshaw/LAX line in full construction mode. Expo Phase II, connecting downtown to Santa Monica, is in the final testing phases, and the Gold Line Foothill extension is scheduled to open in March. The long-discussed goal of connecting the Metro system to LAX and transforming the way passengers access the airport terminals is now in the environmental planning stage.
Both Metro and Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) have new leadership at the helm. These transplants from Denver and Oakland are building on the successes of their predecessors, while bringing fresh ideas to the table and making industry engagement a priority. Both agencies are hosting upcoming events for private sector partners who wish to participate in the planning and construction of these major projects that will lay the groundwork for continued economic growth and enhanced quality of life.
On Feb. 4, LAWA will hold an industry forum to introduce the Land Access Modernization Program (LAMP) and outline contracting opportunities. LAMP includes several major elements, including an Automated People Mover, a Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility, multiple Intermodal Transportation Facilities, and a comprehensive network of roadway improvements to move traffic more efficiently and reduce congestion in surrounding neighborhoods. This $5 billion set of projects will be a game-changer in elevating the image and convenience of the number one origin and destination airport in the world.
As Metro moves to deliver more transportation options and enhance customer experiences, the agency will be hosting a Transformation Through Transportation Industry Forum on Feb. 11. With an eye towards innovative solutions for project delivery and technology, the forum will be focused on opportunities for capital project delivery, first/last mile connections, bus/rail/paratransit operations, safety and security, and transit-oriented communities.
These major projects by Metro and LAWA will benefit the businesses and citizens of L.A. County and Southern California. They will also be helpful in preparing for headline-grabbing projects such as the L.A. Football Club stadium, the Rams facility in Inglewood and a possible 2024 Olympic Games. These investments will become the foundation of our economy and facilitate the construction of more badly needed housing, while relieving congestion and improving the quality of life for Angelenos.
If your company has the expertise to help, I urge you to take part in these two forums that represent big construction opportunities for the 21st century.
And that’s The Business Perspective.
Leave a Comment
Comments submitted are subject to review by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce prior to posting. The Chamber reserves the right to monitor and withhold comments that include personal, offensive, potentially libelous or copyright protected language, materials or links. Only comments relevant to the topic will be posted. Comments posted must have a valid email address. View our full terms & conditions.