Los Angeles is notorious for its constant and heavy traffic. To help minimize cars on the road, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is working with the city to expand public transportation with the expansion of light-rail lines throughout Los Angeles.

Initially, when the project began three years ago, construction was expected to cost $1.36 billion. Now, the MTA is requesting its third round of additional funding for $199 million. Should the additional budget be approved, it’ll increase the project’s scope by 28% for a total of $1.75 billion.

The reason behind the need for more funds? Locating and moving buried utility lines, which officials say were not outlined in government records.

Federal officials set a construction completion deadline of May 2021, and if it’s not met, millions in federal grants will disappear. MTA officials feel confident that this will be the last request for additional capital.

For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Daniella Soloway