Angelenos may soon have a big decision to make on whether to raise $40 billion for transit improvements through a half-cent sales tax hike. But as the Los Angeles Times editorial board points out, the question of how exactly that money going to be spent — and the projects it will be spent on — [...]

L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa writes that a proposed half-cent sales tax increase – which would generate $40 billion in revenue over 30 years — is a vital step towards improving transit options for all Angelenos and reshaping Southern California. (Los Angeles Times)

By driving less, Americans are in turn are dropping less money into the federal transportation piggy bank through the national gas tax — and without the political capital to raise the gas tax, lawmakers see few options for dealing with the problem. (Los Angeles Times — Richard Simon)

L.A. Times criticizes opponents of a proposed sales tax measure that would fund new transit projects. (Los Angeles Times — Editorial)

Joel Kotkin disputes the notion that high gas prices and a slumping housing market will bring a decline in suburban living and rise of the inner city, prompting a response from at least one blogger. (Los Angeles Times — Joel Kotkin)

Biking has becoming increasingly attractive to commuters looking to avoid the pain at the pump, and retailers are struggling to keep up with demand. (Los Angles Times – Leslie Earnest)

Despite the “stubborn roots” of SoCal’s car culture, commuters are gradually turning towards mass transit. (Los Angeles Times – Joe Mozingo)