The Best Route for the Crenshaw Northern Extension by Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority

In my viewpoint, the most optimal solution would be to start from Crenshaw Blvd and advance to Venice Blvd. From there, the line should proceed along San Vicente Blvd through West Hollywood. Finally, it should conclude at the Hollywood and Highland Station in Hollywood. This path garners local political support and offers the necessary population density to sustain the route. Not only would this alleviation help decongest traffic in West Hollywood, but it would also aid in addressing the parking issues in the area.

For further context, the Crenshaw Line is currently under construction and is set to run from LAX to the Expo Line, primarily along Crenshaw Blvd, with a segment following an old Santa Fe Railroad line to LAX. The publicly anticipated launch period for the Crenshaw Line is around 2020. Concurrently, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is evaluating potential northern extensions for the Crenshaw Line to connect with the Metro Red Line. The proposed route alternatives include:

Evaluation of Alternative Routes

A - Via San Vicente, Santa Monica Blvd, and Highland to the Red Line. It connects with the future Purple Line at La Cienega Blvd. B - Via San Vicente, Fairfax, and Santa Monica to Highland and the Red Line. C - Via San Vicente, La Brea, Santa Monica to Highland and the Red Line. Hybrid Alternatives: A1 - Continues on La Cienega to Santa Monica B1 - Fairfax, Third, La Cienega, or San Vicente to Santa Monica

Each route presents its specific benefits and drawbacks. For instance, Alternative C is the fastest but does not serve notable attractions like the Farmers Market, LACMA, and the Beverly Center. It also provides minimal service along Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, which is predominantly located along Santa Monica Blvd, prioritizes a route that serves as much of this street as possible.

Summary of Key Route Options

Alternative B: Hits the Farmers Market but misses the Beverly Center. Alternative A: Serves the Beverly Center and most of Santa Monica Blvd but misses the Farmers Market. Alternative A1: Continues on La Cienega, serving a trendy neighborhood at the expense of part of Santa Monica Blvd. Alternative A2: Runs via Fairfax, Beverly to La Cienega, then via either route A or A1, balancing the needs of the Farmers Market and Beverly Center. This path takes 20 minutes, the slowest of the options. Route C takes 12 minutes, the fastest.

Given the political landscape, both local and regional, the choice of route will significantly impact the final decision. My personal inclination leans towards Alternative A2, as it offers a balanced solution that takes into account both political pressures and logistical efficiency. However, the ultimate choice will likely reflect a combination of public support, economic viability, and urban planning considerations.

In conclusion, while each alternative has its merits, the Crenshaw Northern Extension should aim to serve the community's needs while providing efficient and convenient transportation. The best route for the Crenshaw Northern Extension is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Los Angeles' transportation infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and improving the quality of life for its residents.

References

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro)