How will LA Metro’s Southeast Gateway Line reshape Los Angeles transit?

The Los Angeles County officials have announced a significant milestone for the Metro Southeast Gateway Line, a 19-mile, $7.1 billion project aimed at extending the local transit system to serve residents in traditionally underserved areas. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has given final approval to the environmental review documents for a 14.5-mile segment of this massive extension, making it eligible for federal funding. This marks a pivotal moment in the development of the Southeast Gateway Line, which is expected to bring substantial benefits to the region.

Federal Approval and Funding

On Friday, the FTA issued a Record of Decision for the first segment of the line, which was certified by the Metro Board in April. This approval unlocks federal funding for the project, adding to the over $2 billion in local and state funds already committed. The Southeast Gateway Line is set to serve regions that have historically been left behind by the Metro system. County Supervisor and Metro Board Chair Janice Hahn emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “It’s clear to our federal partners that these communities needed and deserved this critical investment, and now they’ve delivered.”

Utility work for the project is expected to begin by the end of this year. Once completed, the full 19-mile Southeast Gateway Line will serve 1.4 million residents between Union Station in Downtown LA and Artesia, passing through Vernon, Huntington Park, Bell, Cudahy, South Gate, Downey, Paramount, Bellflower, and Cerritos. Hahn highlighted that 44% of residents along the line live below the poverty level, and the construction and operation of the line are projected to create between 37,000 and 46,000 jobs, generating $5 billion per year in economic activity.

Project Phases and Economic Impact

The Metro Board of Directors has adopted the final environmental study for the initial segment of the Southeast Gateway Line, which will stretch from South Los Angeles to Artesia. This first phase, expected to begin utility relocation by late 2024, will cover 14.5 miles between the A Line’s Slauson Station and Pioneer Boulevard in Artesia, with eight stops along a historic right-of-way through Vernon, Huntington Park, Bell, Cudahy, South Gate, Downey, Paramount, Bellflower, and Cerritos.

The second phase will extend north toward Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles, running parallel to the A Line until veering east to Alameda Street. The Southeast Gateway Line will span roughly 19 miles, with connections to the A and C Lines and services at Union Station. The initial segment is expected to cost up to $5.1 billion, with the FTA covering a significant portion of the overall $7.1 billion price tag. The first phase could begin serving passengers as early as 2035, with the second phase expected to be completed by 2053.

The exact design of the later phase remains a topic of debate, with Downtown Los Angeles property owners and business advocacy groups pushing for a subterranean alignment rather than running trains on a viaduct above Alameda Street. If built with a subterranean alignment, the project is estimated to cost $7.75 billion, compared to slightly under $7 billion for the above-grade option on Alameda. An enhanced infrastructure financing district has been proposed to close the gap between the two alternatives.

Boost from Federal Funding Ahead of the 2028 Olympics

In addition to the Southeast Gateway Line, the Los Angeles region has secured nearly $900 million in federal funding to support transportation infrastructure projects ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics. Mayor Karen Bass announced that a large share of this funding—$709.9 million—will go toward two LA Metro projects: the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project and sections two and three of the D (Purple) Line Subway Extension Project.

The East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project will receive $66.9 million to improve connections and access to crucial destinations. The first segment of this line will feature a 6.7-mile at-grade alignment along Van Nuys Boulevard with 11 new transit stations. The Purple Line subway extension, constructed in three sections, will connect downtown with West Los Angeles as part of a broader 9-mile project offering a high-capacity alternative to driving for commuters. Metro anticipates receiving $165 million for section two (Wilshire/La Cienega to Century City) and $478 million for section three (between Century City and Westwood), with all sections expected to open before the 2028 Olympics.

Additional funding includes $160 million from new federal grant programs aimed at reconnecting communities and improving mobility. This funding will support various projects, including multimodal investments, bus speed and reliability improvements, first/last mile strategies, mobility hubs, and non-capital mobility solutions.

Our Advice on the City

For occasional travelers, exploring the new Southeast Gateway Line once it becomes operational will offer a unique opportunity to experience the diverse communities of Los Angeles. Consider planning a day trip along the line, stopping at various stations to discover local culture, cuisine, and attractions that are often overlooked by tourists.

For expert travelers, delve deeper into the history and development of the Southeast Gateway Line. Engage with local community organizations and attend public meetings to gain insights into the planning and implementation of this transformative project. Understanding the complexities and challenges of urban transit development can provide a richer perspective on the city’s evolving infrastructure.

In conclusion, the Southeast Gateway Line represents a significant investment in the future of Los Angeles, promising to enhance connectivity, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for residents in underserved communities. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a seasoned traveler, the developments in LA’s transit system offer exciting opportunities to explore and engage with the city in new and meaningful ways.