New Lines Approved For Houston Light Rail

"City Council approved an agreement Wednesday with the Metropolitan Transit Authority, giving permission for the agency to build five light rail lines on Houston streets, but also pledging to make sure Metro does the job right."

"The 13-2 approval came after weeks of discussion and questions from council members — and after Metro officials said they would reconsider plans to put part of the University line on Wheeler Avenue."

"Metro says it can complete all five lines by 2012."

"Council's approval also came after two portions of the agreement were removed at the request of Councilwoman Pam Holm. One would have let Metro build at its own risk in violation of city codes, rather than delay construction if the city did not grant variances promptly."

"The other said Metro could terminate the project at will. Wilson said that was a remote possibility, but could occur, for instance, if the Federal Transit Administration denied funding."