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Although Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA MTA) anticipates losing up to $1 million in state funding, the authority adopted a fiscal-year 2004 $2.8 billion budget that includes funds to move ahead with several major projects.



To make up the shortfall, the authority plans to cut 104 jobs, reduce administrative and workers’ compensation costs, and restructure fares. Also, LA MTA employees will not receive wage increases this year unless specified in labor contracts.



Almost $500 million of the budget has been allocated for Metro Rail operating costs and construction, including funds for the Los Angeles-to-Pasadena Metro Gold Line, which opens this summer. LA MTA plans to buy 50 light-rail vehicles for the new line and its Eastside extension.



The authority also plans to contribute $41 million toward Metrolink commuter-rail operations.