405 car pool lane on hold

A $1 billion plan to widen the San Diego Freeway through the Sepulveda Pass is the latest victim of the state's financial crisis, with a $730 million shortfall threatening to delay - or even cancel - a car-pool lane that could ease commutes for San Fernando Valley motorists. Sue Doyle in the Daily News.

The 10-mile car-pool lane project on the northbound 405 between the Santa Monica (10) and Ventura (101) freeways was supposed to begin in mid-May, largely paid for with bond revenue awarded two years ago. However, that money was temporarily rescinded in December as the Legislature struggled to close a $42 billion deficit.

Transportation officials are now scrambling to identify other sources of revenue to keep the project on schedule. Adding to the sense of urgency is the potential loss of $200 million in federal stimulus money if the project is delayed.