PRESS RELEASE - CITY OF TORRANCE RESPONDS TO LA METRO BOARD ACTION

The City of Torrance is deeply disappointed by today's Metro Board vote to advance the Hawthorne Boulevard option for the K Line/C Line Extension project. Since inception of this project, Torrance has consistently supported the Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA) along the existing Metro Right-of-Way-a position that reflected extensive community input and the clear priorities of Torrance residents, local businesses, and the broader South Bay.

While we respect Metro's process, the City remains highly concerned about the real and significant impacts this decision will bring to our community. Torrance is the third-largest sales tax generator in Los Angeles County and home to the Del Amo Fashion Center, the largest shopping center in LA County and second largest in California. Hawthorne Boulevard serves as the primary gateway to these businesses and regional destinations, carrying approximately 70,000 vehicle trips daily. The Hawthorne Boulevard option is projected to jeopardize over $28 million in annual sales tax receipts to Torrance and nearly $167 million in annual impacts to LA County schools and services that depend on regional sales tax revenue. The City is committed to protecting our local economy and minimizing impacts to residents and businesses as this project moves forward.

"I want to sincerely thank the Torrance community for your extraordinary advocacy," said Torrance Mayor George K. Chen. "Torrance showed up at today's Metro Board meeting in full force. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues on the City Council, City staff, former elected officials, and the hundreds of residents, business owners, and public transit advocates who attended in person, called in, and submitted letters in support of the LPA. Your voices were heard-and while today's outcome was not what we advocated for, the City of Torrance will continue to carry your voices forward."

The City of Torrance remains steadfast in advocating for our residents, businesses, and the entire community. We will continue to provide public updates as the project advances.

"Today's vote is not the end of Torrance's advocacy-it is the beginning of a new chapter," said Torrance City Manager Aram Chaparyan. "The City will regroup, determine next steps, and be at the table for every decision that affects our residents and businesses. We will hold Metro accountable to its commitments and work tirelessly to protect Torrance's interests."

For ongoing updates, visit TrendinginTorrance.com, and discover more about the City of Torrance at TorranceCA.Gov/WhyTorrance.

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