When $5 Billion Is A Bargain

"Building a subway line along Wilshire Boulevard to the beach, an idea officially revived last week when the House of Representatives voted to repeal a 20-year-old tunneling ban here, is an example of urban planning done backward: Watch as population and job growth push an urban corridor in the direction of Tokyo-like density. Then ram an underground train route right through it. And pay dearly, in dollars and political capital, for the privilege."

With a price tag of $5 Billion, the plan remains a tough sell, even among those who support expanding rail transit. In spite of this, the article makes the case for the greater potential for the subway to reconnect Los Angeles spiritually by linking areas now separated by choking traffic congestion.