Public commenters challenge BRT data and urge caution on Garvey redesign

Multiple community members used the public comment period to challenge aspects of the San Gabriel Valley Forward jump‑start proposal and the data supporting it. Ela Sito alleged the Kimley‑Horn ridership analysis used suppressed COVID‑era baselines and called a claim that Line 70 "connects" directly to the Metro E Line a material misrepresentation; she said walking from the bus stop to the platform requires a 1.6‑mile, 15‑minute trek in an unsafe corridor and accused regional actors of redirecting resources.

Other commenters supported the project: Don Donson Liu said the project "makes sense" given high demand on Line 70 and recent approvals by Rosemead and South El Monte. Council members acknowledged the public's concerns and asked consultants for more detail on methodology, directional lane options and parking mitigation. The city attorney clarified that comments on an item during public comment do not replace opportunity to speak again when the item is considered.

Council requested that staff amplify community outreach, specifically to business owners and residents on Garvey and Atlantic, and to return with clearer cost and operational definitions.