Long Beach: Name… The Already-Named Transit Mall?

In what is undoubtedly one of the strangest campaigns yet, Councilmember Suja Lowenthal wants you to name the already-named Transit Mall Station per the MTA.

Located on 1st Street between Pine and Pacific Avenues down, the at-grade station that services the Blue Line is part of the Metro--and has been for 23 years. In 2011, the station was part of a larger, $7 million upgrade for the entire transit mall, which spans along first from Long Beach Boulevard to Pacific Avenue.

According to a press release from Lownethal's office, Long Beach "has an opportunity to suggest a new name to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority" and is asking stakeholders for their vote online.

Apparently, MTA hasn't been following its own naming policy, which insists that stations must refer to a nearby street or freeway, destination or landmark, community or district name, or city name; and it is "preferable" to use one name or multiple names separated by a dash.

Of course, the most amusing part for many riders is that the Transit Mall IS a landmark: "Where is that at?" "Right by the Transit Mall." In fact, the existing name is already on the voting form.

But alas, Long Beachers, here's your chance--once and for all--to name the Transit Mall Station. Let's just hope she likes her new moniker.

To vote, click here.