Hello Stephen,
Regarding your article about a Metro grant made to Culver City, the headline describes Metro's action as "canceling" the grant. This is inaccurate. The action taken by the Committee on November 20 (approved by the full Metro Board of Directors on Dec. 5), recoups just under $435,000. Metro is recouping funds used to construct a protected bike lane on Washington Boulevard which was subsequently removed. The agreement between Metro and Culver City specifically required recouping funds when funded elements are taken out of use prior their "useful life." The balance of the grant remains in place and is available to Culver City to deliver other active transportation improvements within the project's scope of work.
The article describes Metro's action as "punishing" Culver City. In the recommendation, Metro specifically described the action as not punitive in nature. The grant balance remains in place, and the city is not precluded from seeking future grants. Metro continues to be supportive of Culver City's ambitious plans for further active transportation investment. The action was necessary to assure consistency with Measure M and with the grant funding agreement between Metro and the City.
Tracy Smith
Director, Communications (Interim)
LA Metro
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