Light Rail News, 1 Aug 2004

Some motorists OK with light rail (Minneapolis StarTribune) - A red light that lasted six minutes and other traffic signals that don't seem to respond when they should did little on Wednesday to chill the support some drivers have for light rail. Call it a Minnesotan's willingness to endure. It's a far cry from the first weeks after the Hiawatha light-rail opening, when drivers complained long and loud about traffic delays. A few continue to rail against what they say are unjustifiable holdups.

Light rail sparks development, pedestrian lifestyle (KHOU-TV Houston) - Metro had predicted that over time, rail wouldn't just move people efficiently, it would act like a big, long magic wand on wheels, transforming blighted areas with new development like apartments, town homes and offices.

Light-rail property budget on mark (Charlotte Observer) - Charlotte has bought most of the property it needs for its light-rail line and may come in below its $39 million budget.

Folsom light-rail extension may be delayed (Sacramento Bee) - A Sacramento Regional Transit light-rail extension to Folsom could be delayed two to three months, officials said. Regional Transit still anticipates opening the extension next spring, but delays in awarding construction contracts could push back the project's expected completion date, said Dave Conover, project director.