With major construction about to commence, the Crenshaw/LAX light rail line will stimulate the regional economy. However, this will come to nothing if the project is out of the hands of local construction companies and tradesmen, as well as struggling businesses that line Crenshaw Boulevard. To that effect, Metro Boardmember Mark Ridley-Thomas held a rally to bring awareness of the need to create jobs that would benefit disadvantaged local companies. For their part, Metro and the joint venture selected to build the line agreed to set aside 40% of work hours for employees living in economically depressed areas, a concession fought for by Ridley-Thomas.