Michael Alexander

The Board Meeting involved several key actions. Decisions included authorizing an increase in Contract Modification Authority (CMA) for twelve existing Freeway Service Patrol contracts totaling $3,670,000 and extending their performance periods. The Board authorized a firm fixed price contract of $1,999,895 for Architectural and Engineering (A&E) services related to the SR-60/7th Avenue Interchange Improvements Project, subject to protest resolution. Significant funding of $515 million ($450M Measure R, $65M State/Federal) was programmed for the initial list of Mobility Improvement Projects (MIPs) for the SR-710 North Corridor, along with $45 million for TSM/TDM projects, contingent on the completion of the environmental process. Further actions included authorizing contract modifications for I-5 North Capacity Enhancements and Metro ExpressLanes Operations and Maintenance. The Board adopted a resolution authorizing the issuance of up to $650 million in Proposition C Sales Tax Revenue Bonds for 2019. Approvals were also granted for contract modifications to advance the design level for the West Santa Ana Branch Transit Corridor project. Additional items involved authorizing amendments to negotiation and development agreements for joint development projects in Boyle Heights and Taylor Yard, awarding 29 bench contracts for Countywide Planning and Development professional services, and authorizing a contract modification for Metro Bike Share Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Grant services. The Board approved a new operational naming convention for rail and bus rapid transit lines to use color and letter designations. The Board also directed the CEO to expedite replacement of diesel buses in the South Bay due to fire incidents, investigate related circumstances, and review maintenance/contracting practices. Finally, the Board approved settlements in closed session totaling $300,000 for litigation and $24,500,000 for real property negotiation.

The Regular Board Meeting agenda included receiving remarks from the Chair and a report from the Chief Executive Officer, which highlighted January 2024 ridership statistics, including that the J Line achieved 107% of its pre-pandemic ridership. Major financial and project actions involved a recommendation to issue up to $230 million in Proposition A First Tier Senior Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds to lower debt service costs. Significant discussion surrounded the Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit Project, requiring approvals for its Environmental Impact Report and adopting an Inclusive Community Benefits Agreement Motion with numerous conditions related to indemnification, funding, labor, hiring, community benefits, and environmental mitigation. Other actions included awarding a contract for Union Station Parking Management Services, establishing a budget for the Fire Alarm and Suppression System Project, approving the purchase of 21 Electric Vehicle Crossovers, and authorizing a contract for P3010 Light Rail Vehicle Component Overhaul Battery Kits. The Board also discussed ongoing legal matters in Closed Session, including existing and anticipated litigation and real estate negotiations.

This fact sheet outlines Metro's strategy for implementing Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) to enhance project delivery following the passage of Measure M. It defines P3s as collaborations leveraging private sector expertise, detailing benefits such as increased innovation, improved project design, accelerated timelines, and reduced financial risk for the public sector. The strategy includes a rigorous two-phase screening process for project candidates and competitive bidding to ensure value and transparency, while Metro retains ownership and oversight of all assets and operations.

This document details revisions to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority's Measure M Guidelines for the 3% local contribution requirement to major transit projects. The revisions aim to enhance flexibility by allowing Metro competitive grant funds as an eligible contribution source and clarifying policies regarding in-kind investments and the allocation of costs for regionally significant project elements. These changes are designed to support the strategic plan goals outlined in Vision 2028, focusing on high-quality mobility, community enhancement, and responsive governance, while ensuring consistency with the Measure M Ordinance.

Metro is conducting an Equity Evaluation Study for the I-105 corridor, specifically focusing on Segments 2 and 3 of the Express Lanes. The study aims to identify and prioritize transportation projects that enhance mobility, accessibility, and connectivity for all users within a three-mile radius, considering equity criteria, demographic factors, and community benefits. Building on the completed Segment 1 evaluation, this effort involves local jurisdictions and community organizations to develop a prioritized list of projects for potential funding from net toll revenues. The findings for Segments 2 and 3 are expected to be presented to the Metro Board of Directors in late 2025 or early 2026, coinciding with the planned construction start of these segments in 2026.