This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Sneak peek of new Gold Line Foothill Extension, opening March 5
A new light rail vehicle for the Gold Line Foothill Extension leaves Sierra Madre Villa station headed for Azusa, which is spelled wrong on the train.
(
Meghan McCarty/KPCC
)
The view of the new tracks of the Gold Line Foothill Extension from Pasadena to Azusa.
(
Meghan McCarty/KPCC
)
The new Azusa Downtown station, one of two new stations in Azusa on the Gold Line extension.
(
Meghan McCarty/KPCC
)
The peaceful last stop at Azusa/Citrus College on the Gold Line extension.
(
Meghan McCarty/KPCC
)
Visitors can see snow-capped mountains from the final stop on the Gold Line extension at Azusa/Citrus College.
(
Meghan McCarty/KPCC
)
Listen
0:52
Sneak peek of new Gold Line Foothill Extension, opening March 5
The public will have to wait until March 5 to ride the 12 new miles of the Gold Line's latest extension, but some got the chance to take the train for an early spin on Wednesday.
"It's a smooth ride," said CEO Phil Washington, as Metro officials and reporters rode in brand new light rail cars manufactured by Japanese company Kinkisharyo at a plant in Palmdale.
The extension connects the current Gold Line terminal at Sierra Madre Villa in Pasadena with Azusa, adding six new stops in the San Gabriel Valley:
- Arcadia
- Monrovia
- Duarte/City of Hope
- Irwindale
- Azusa Downtown
- Azusa/Citrus College
“This Gold line extension parallels the 210 freeway, so it provides a much-needed alternative to driving on the 210, which we all know is increasingly busy and congested,” Metro spokesman Dave Sotero said.
Metro projects the Gold Line extension will carry more than 13,000 people a day by 2035.
The rail extension cost $1 billion and is the first completed project undertaken with funds from the Measure R half-cent sales tax approved by Los Angeles County voters in 2008.
The extension adds to the 87 miles of rail currently carrying passengers in L.A.
Sponsored message
"That brings us almost to triple digits," Sotero said.
The Expo Line Phase 2 to Santa Monica is expected to open in May, although no official date has yet been announced.
"We’re talking about really changing the face of L.A. County," said Washington of the two projects. "These mobility options will only better our way of life and our quality of life."
The agency is gearing up to put another sales tax measure on the November ballot to fund more construction projects, including a possible extension of the Gold Line to Claremont.
Metro has drawn criticism for expanding rail lines at a time when ridership has been declining.
Washington said he expects ridership to increase with the two new rail line openings, demonstrating to more people the importance of building out the region's transportation system.
"I think it can only help the ballot initiative," he said. The Metro Board will not officially vote on whether to move forward with the measure until June.
Sponsored message
Metro will offer free rides on the entire length of the Gold Line on March 5 to mark the opening of the Foothill extension. Several of the six new stations plan community events with music and food.
A new express bus connecting Pasadena to the Orange and Red lines in North Hollywood launches just before the Gold Line extension on March 1.
This story has been updated.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
