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On Jan. 17, Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) began building the $329.5-million San Fernando Valley Metro Rapid Transitway Project, which is designed to provide valley commuters more efficient bus service and easier access to MTA's rail system.


The authority awarded Brutoco Engineering & Construction Co. a $3.8-million contract to construct a bus bridge over the Los Angeles River. The bridge is the first phase of the project, a 14-mile landscaped transitway that will run between the North Hollywood Metro Red Line Station and Warner Center, and include 13 busway stations spaced one mile apart.


When completed in spring 2005, the project will enable transit buses to operate on exclusive guideways unimpeded by surrounding traffic.


"Along with the Eastside Light Rail Project to extend the Metro Gold Line, the San Fernando Valley Metro Rapid Transitway Project is a top MTA priority," said MTA Chief Executive Officer Roger Snoble in a prepared statement.


As part of the project, MTA plans to build park-and-ride lots at five stations, which will provide 3,300 new parking spaces.


"This project would be like a Metro Rail system on rubber wheels that will allow riders to cut travel time substantially," said MTA board member and Los Angeles Mayor James Hahn.