From: "Friends of Transit" To: Subject: Update on METRO 20-mile Opening Schedule and Budget Date: Monday, March 22, 2004 2:58 PM There has been some recent news about the schedule and budget of the METRO opening line. We wanted to make sure you are provided with all of the facts available. The community interest and involvement in planning this project has been unprecedented, and this has caused Valley Metro Rail to refine their plans, which in turn have added time and money. After nearly 2000 community meetings, more than 80 major changes were made to the project as a result of those meetings and other community input. However, the system will be better for the community, the users and the traveling public. To view a copy of Valley Metro Rail's report on this project, please go to www.friendsoftransit.org and click on the "Read the METRO 20-mile Opening Line Final Design Update" in the red box. Keep in mind, the current estimated budget of $1.3 billion is consistent with other successful light rail systems across the country. § Thank you for your continued interest in this project. David Schwartz Executive Director Friends of Transit