Los Angeles Times: After decades of waiting, their trains have arrived

[marmar]

By Ari B. Bloomekatz and Hector Becerra

November 16, 2009


The sun had not yet risen when the first commuter train in nearly half a century set off from downtown to East Los Angeles, extending a new line of public transportation to some of the city's most underserved neighborhoods.

At 3:40 a.m. Sunday the first passengers were train enthusiasts, students and workers for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which built the six-mile Gold Line extension. A few hours later, the neighborhood showed up.

More than 50,000 people were estimated to have taken part in a festive day of celebration and free rides. Starting today, riding the entire 20-mile Gold Line route from Pasadena to East L.A.'s Atlantic station will cost a nominal $1.25.

"I feel like East L.A. matters a little bit more," said longtime resident Joe Zenteno, 40, just minutes after rolling his bike into a sleek Metro train at the Mariachi Plaza stop in Boyle Heights. "I love East L.A., bro. This is a good neighborhood. And I think this is going to make people care a little bit more about their community." ..........(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-gold-line16-2009nov16,0,5454432.story