Very true. I also hope all of this finds some sort of equitable way to de-sprawl somewhat. Transit in LA does have such an interesting history of missteps. Can you imagine what things might be like if they never got rid of the red car system?!
The red car was a loss leader for real estate development. It was hastily and cheaply constructed for short term profit, not carefully planned for long term growth and utility.
Almost all crossings were at-grade and rail was being converted to bus as early as 1925.
Trains were being pulled up after the property was sold and many lines averaged under 13 mph as the density and car traffic increased.
The rail lines themselves were cheap material. Many lines were closed when they became too costly to repair.
The anarchy of free market competition is a poor substitute for thoughtful urban planning.
