METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Some oppose L.A. transit tax measure over fares

Opponents say Measure J, which would extend an existing transit tax from 2039 to 2069, providing money to speed completion of at least six rail projects by 2024, would significantly raise fares, cut bus lines or both due to the cost of operating so many new lines ahead of schedule.

November 2, 2012
1 min to read


LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Times reported that Los Angeles County's Measure J, which would extend an existing transit tax from 2039 to 2069, providing money to speed completion of at least six rail projects by 2024, is being questioned. 

Opponents say the cost of operating so many new lines ahead of schedule will leave the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority no choice but to significantly hike fares, cut bus lines or both.

However, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s transit advisor argued that the measure will do so much to boost ridership and stimulate the economy that fare increases won't be needed for 57 years, because the expedited construction schedule would pump tens of billions of dollars into the economy. For the full story, click here.

More Bus

A MARTA 60-foot articulated bus.
Busby StaffApril 16, 2026

MARTA Set to Launch Next Gen Bus Network

The historic initiative represents the first time since MARTA began bus operations in the early 1970s that the entire system has been redrawn from scratch.

Read More →
A Coach USA Van Hool CX 45 delivered by ABC Companies.
Busby StaffApril 15, 2026

ABC Delivers Van Hools to Coach USA and More in Biz Briefs

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from suppliers including Moovit, CAF, and more.

Read More →
A headshot of Inez Evans Benson
Busby Alex RomanApril 15, 2026

Inez Evans Benson on Rethinking Transit Through Customer Experience

The WSP leader discusses why agencies must look beyond satisfaction metrics and take a more holistic, community-driven approach to service.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
FlixBus vehicles in a parking garage.
ManagementApril 13, 2026

Intercity Bus Industry Outlook: A Mix of Apprehension & Optimism

Industry leaders see both promise and peril ahead as intercity bus travel rebounds, but unpredictable market forces threaten to reshape the sector.

Read More →
Cover Photo for Bus Tech Talk
ManagementApril 9, 2026

Bus Tech Talk: AC Transit’s Cecil Blandon on Leadership, Mentorship, and a Career in Transit

In Part 1, Blandon shares his journey from the U.S. Marines to a leadership role in public transit, along with insights on mentorship and professional growth within the industry.

Read More →
A blurry TransLink R2 rapid bus
Managementby StaffApril 8, 2026

Vancouver's TransLink Fast-Tracks RapidBus Line to Metrotown

Funded through the 2025 Investment Plan, the new R2 Marine–Willingdon RapidBus is expected to begin service in September, more than three months ahead of schedule.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Complete Parts logo
Busby StaffApril 1, 2026

Complete Coach Works Unveils Reimagined Parts Department with Expanded Capabilities

Complete Parts features new branding with a new logo, a new contact telephone number, a dedicated order desk, enhanced processes and inventory, all designed to provide the parts bus operations need.  

Read More →
frontrunner bus
SponsoredApril 1, 2026

Breaking Accessibility Barriers with the Low Floor Frontrunner Minibus

Accessible transit isn’t a feature—it’s a responsibility. This whitepaper explores how the Low-Floor Frontrunner is redefining mobility with a breakthrough design that removes barriers, empowers riders, and delivers measurable operational advantages for agencies. Discover why this next generation minibus is setting a new standard for inclusive transportation.

Read More →
A shot of ENC's manufacturing facility
Busby StaffMarch 31, 2026

ENC Named 'Partner of Choice' to Support Philadelphia SEPTA’s $43M FTA Grant

SEPTA was awarded $43 million in competitive grant funding from the FTA's FY25 Low and No Emission and Bus and Bus Facilities grant programs to support this procurement.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Cover photo for Bus Tech Talk with Cecil Blandon
Managementby Alex RomanMarch 27, 2026

AC Transit’s Cecil Blandon on Leadership, Mentorship, and a Career in Transit

In part 1 of a two-part conversation, AC Transit’s director of maintenance joins co-hosts Alex Roman and Mark Hollenbeck to discuss his journey from the U.S. Marines to public transit and the role mentorship plays in developing the next generation of industry leaders.

Read More →