San Francisco Central Subway Project Blasted By Grand Jury
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – A civil grand jury has issued a damning report on the planned San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Central Subway project.
Among the findings, the grand jury called the $1.5 billion project "a waste of money," found that Muni is unable to adequately maintain its fleet in good working order and the Central Subway could overwhelm the transit system.
Grand juror Bob Perry said the main conclusion is that the project just simply doesn't make sense.
"We're looking at an almost $1.6 billion cost for 1.7 miles, with only four stations and without any significant decreased passenger times," said Perry. "It's a lot of money for very little benefit."
KCBS' Barbara Taylor Reports:
MTA Commission President Tom Nolan said he vehemently disagrees with the report.
"I think it's going to be a terrific project. It will really help unite the city," said Nolan. "It will get 60,000-70,000 people a day off the streets, which I think is very worthwhile."
KCBS and Chronicle Insider Phil Matier:
The grand jury report found that the subway plan is flawed because it leaves out the Financial District, requires a long underground walk from Union Square to the Powell Street Metro station and cuts off the T-Line from the Metro on Market Street.
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