NORFOLK (AP) -- Virginia transportation officials want about $7 million in safety improvements added to Norfolk's light rail.

The state Department of Rail and Public Transportation says the system now under construction is safe and meets federal standards. But a draft agency report recommends changes to improve how well the system will operate and respond to emergencies.

It has not been decided how the improvements would be funded, if agreed upon by Hampton Roads Transit and the city.

Norfolk is contractually obligated to cover cost overruns in the project.

Mayor Paul Fraim said he wants the state's recommendations to be included in the project but wants the state to share in the costs.

Meantime, Del. Paula Miller (D-87th D) is urging Norfolk City Council to appoint an independent panel to oversee the 7-mile long. $232 million dollar project.

"Unless we monitor the construction costs now, we could be auditing the mistakes later," she said.

Miller added, “I have been a supporter of light rail and believe mass transit is a critical component of solutions to our transportation challenges.  However, I don't believe Norfolk taxpayers deserve to be surprised with a hefty transit bill which could come due one day at the expense of other core city services."

The light rail is being funded by the federal and state governments as well as the City of Norfolk.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)