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Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) recently released a six-year plan that outlines transportation project priorities.



By 2009, county officials expect the population to increase by more than one million residents, increasing the need for additional public transportation. But the state has proposed funding cuts that could reduce transportation appropriations for Los Angeles County by $2 billion during the next six years.



The transportation plan cites several possible strategies to address an anticipated annual funding reduction of $330 million, such as issuing bonds, and implementing a county sales or gas tax, and freight-container, motor-vehicle, oil-barrel and traffic-impact fees.



Despite the likely loss of state funds, the authority expects to advance several transportation projects.



This year, LA MTA plans to complete the Pasadena Metro Gold Line light-rail project. By 2009, the authority expects to have the Eastside extension complete. The two lines would add 20 track miles, converging in downtown Los Angeles, and extending to the San Gabriel Valley and East Los Angeles.



The Exposition extension toward Culver City is currently being designed, and also could be completed by 2009, provided funding is available. LA MTA also plans to begin preliminary design on a Gold Line extension from Pasadena to Irwindale.



Improving Metrolink commuter service is in the works, as well. LA MTA plans to extend platforms, enabling trains to expand from six to eight cars. Other improvements include updating rolling stock and rehabilitating track.



The plan includes $12.6 billion to maintain and expand the transportation system, and $9 billion to operate trains and buses during the next six years.