Despite Its Current Benefits, The L.A. Metro Needs Improvement
Whether it is the idea that the car is king in Los Angeles, or that most people do not find the Metro to be very efficient, there are solutions to these problems. The Metro needs some enhancement. However, it deserves accolades for its substantial benefits for young people living in L.A.
The lack of incentive to ride the light rail or bus is justified. The signage at stops is sometimes vague, there usually involves a transfer from a train to a bus to go a significant distance, and it is very difficult to get to the beach. (As Californians, we know this is a touchy subject.) Also, there may be some apprehension to ride public transportation through surrounding neighborhoods that extend past students’ comfort zones.
Despite the problems the Metro system faces, there is room for improvement. A frequent user of the system knows that there is very little security enforcing rider payment and that many people ride free. If the system raised the fare by just 10 cents per average bus or train ride, to $1.60, operators could use the total revenue to increase the presence of security and thus make riders feel more comfortable using the system. Although the fare cannot be too high (because of the LA Bus Riders Union’s efforts to keep the Metro affordable), an increase of 10 cents is minimal. In addition, increasing the frequency of buses could allow for easier transfers from trains to buses if transfers are necessary. Carrying a beach towel and an umbrella is not so appealing when you have to hold them at a bus stop for 30 minutes. The most important alteration, though, is continual expansion. The Expo Line must extend to the beach within the next few years to allow for an influx of adolescent travelers. This recently built line may foreshadow future expansion.
In the meantime, while the Metro is working out its kinks, students should take advantage of its benefits. The cost of one average ride is a whopping $1.50, and the Metro expands further than one might think. Although you may have to transfer from a train to a bus to go a certain distance, it’s easy to become comfortable with the transfer system. Just try it a couple of times, and you will find yourself acclimating. With the cost of gas climbing, the Metro may be a great alternative to transportation by car. Knowing which lines to take and when to catch a bus is important, and this knowledge is easily accessible on the Metro website.
So, leave your car in that overly priced parking garage on campus or forget about paying for street parking before every errand you run. Although it may be hard to overcome the notion that the Metro is frightening, in due time you will realize that it is a safe and efficient system, as long as you are a cautious traveller. Consider traveling with a group of people to help one another become comfortable using public transportation.
Try it out. If you’re a student, you know your wallet isn’t getting any fatter.
Reach Contributor Hallie Roth here.