Bernson Backs Proposal for 'Super' Transit Center

Los Angeles City Councilman Hal Bernson urged county officials Wednesday to convert the old Chatsworth railroad station site into "an expanded super transit center" where commuters could catch trains, taxis and airport shuttles in a complex equipped with restaurants, child care centers and other services.

Bernson introduced a motion asking that the Los Angeles County Transportation Commission help private developers construct a retail complex on the 13-acre parcel on Devonshire Street.

The commission agreed in October to buy 177 miles of Southern Pacific right of way and related properties--including the Chatsworth station site for $450 million--to make the properties the backbone of a commuter train system that would carry passengers from the San Fernando Valley and elsewhere to downtown Los Angeles.

Bernson's motion was referred to the transportation committee.