In a bold move to revamp public transportation, the City of Los Santos passed a bond measure in 2023 that raised property taxes significantly. This funding was intended to support a massive overhaul of the city’s light rail system and introduce new buses. However, just weeks after the measure was enacted, the light rail has come to a standstill, leaving commuters in a state of frustration and confusion.
“After we were told our taxes would help improve public transport, I expected to see real changes,” said Maria Gonzalez, a homeowner in downtown Los Santos. “Now the light rail is just sitting there, and I can’t even get to work on time. This is unacceptable,” she exclaimed.
The lack of movement on the light rail lines has left many residents scrambling for alternative transportation options. Average commuters have reported an increase of 20 minutes in their daily travel time since the transit system issues began. Meanwhile, the parking lots at Los Santos International Airport are full, forcing travelers to seek parking further away.
The City of Los Santos Parking Enforcement has noted a steady increase in tickets issued since the transit system issues began.
“It’s a nightmare,” said environmental activist David Kim. “We were promised a cleaner, more efficient transit system, but now it’s just chaos.”
Amid growing safety concerns related to mass transit, the San Andreas Transit Authority (SATA) was formed in late 2023 after receiving special funding from the San Andreas Law Enforcement Council (SALEC). However, many residents are questioning the effectiveness of this new agency. “Where is SATA? They seem to have disappeared along with the light rail,” questioned Sarah Jenkins, a frustrated property owner from East Los Santos. “We need them to be accountable. If they’re in charge of our transit system, they should be here explaining what’s happening.”
The strain on the transit system is expected to worsen when renovations at Maze Bank Arena are completed, with work slated to finish in early December 2024. “With more events and increased traffic, how can we handle it when our transit is already failing?” Jenkins said. “It feels like we’re setting ourselves up for disaster.”
While the new buses have been deployed in the Rockford Hills community, many areas are still waiting for improved service. “I pay higher taxes for what? A few buses in one neighborhood? It feels like we’ve been left behind,” Jenkins added. “I thought we were investing in a better future, but all we have is disappointment.”
The city council has stated that it is aware of the issues and is working to address the situation, but for now, the cries of frustrated commuters and concerned citizens are echoing throughout Los Santos.
