Pasadena Goldline 1994-2003 Challenges: The communities along the 13.7 mile-corridor between Chinatown and Pasadena were disunited and dissatisfied with the proposed Gold Line (formerly called the Blue Line).  Moreover, a number of these communities harbored suspicions that others were privately negotiating with the MTA to obtain special treatment.  The MTA, for its part faced a difficult time responding to the disparate needs, allegations and issues of Los Angeles/Chinatown, Highland Park, Mount Washington, South Pasadena and Pasadena.  The disunity threatened to seriously delay a light rail project already behind schedule. Valencia, Pérez & Echeveste (VPE) organized an informal Blue Line Corridor Committee with representation of stakeholder communities and organizations along the proposed line.  Its mission and admission for membership was simple: all those at the table would work to support the building of the Blue Line.  VPE’s responsibility included organizing the committee, coordinating meetings, preparing materials, framing the issues for discussion, and preparing newsletters on its behalf.  Concerns, rumors or opportunities were channeled through VPE for dissemination to all of the committee.  Selected Results: The committee became a highly effective body.  In addition to monthly meetings in various areas of the corridor, the committee also sponsored general community meetings in the evening with speakers.  Community committee members brought their concerns to the table for discussion and resolution.  Over time, the group shaped its common goals and needs and began appearing before the MTA Board as a single entity with one voice.  The MTA took advantage of this committee structure by meeting with the group and address all corridor issues at once. In July 2003, with the launch of Gold Line service, the City of Pasadena held a breakfast inviting all Corridor Committee members to join the celebration.  Committee members received mementos of appreciation for their vital community service.