The U.S. House of Representatives has eliminated funding for the Inglewood Transit Connector, a $2 billion automated people mover project, from its version of the Department of Transportation budget. This decision puts the future of the project, which aims to connect the Metro K line to SoFi Stadium and the Intuit Dome, in jeopardy. Local Rep. Maxine Waters has expressed strong opposition to the project, citing its high cost and lack of benefits for the community.
Waters’ letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg led to the removal of the $200 million earmarked for the Inglewood project. In response, Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. expressed frustration but remained confident in the project’s future, pointing out that the Senate still needs to discuss the budget.
The Inglewood Transit Connector has faced criticism for its high cost and potential negative impact on the local community. Waters argues that the funds allocated for the project would be better spent on affordable housing and essential community services. Butts, however, believes the project will benefit the city by reducing traffic congestion, creating jobs, and improving the quality of life for residents.
Despite the setback in the House, Inglewood has secured funding promises of $1.97 billion from various sources and is optimistic about the Senate’s support for the project. Supporters of the Inglewood Transit Connector include U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Gov. Gavin Newsom, and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. The fate of the project will be determined as the legislative bodies negotiate the differences in their budget proposals.
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