Metro Board Approves Underground Rail Plan to Connect San Fernando Valley and Westside

Metro Board Approves Sepulveda Pass Rail Project

• 🚆 The Metro Board has unanimously approved a modified Alternative 5 for a proposed rail line connecting the San Fernando Valley to the Westside.
• 🎯 This project aims to alleviate congestion on the highly traveled and congested 405 freeway in Los Angeles County.

Project Details and Benefits

• 🚇 The approved plan favors an underground heavy rail option with a stop near the UCLA Westwood campus.
• ⚡ Supporters believe this rail line will significantly reduce transit times, potentially cutting travel from 40-90 minutes down to approximately 20 minutes via public transportation.
• 💡 The project is expected to transform lives and livelihoods by increasing access to UCLA for thousands of students and employees commuting from the Valley.

Public Input and Next Steps

• 💬 Metro received over 8,000 comments and responses through more than 10 community meetings, with over 90% expressing support for the project.
• 📝 While this vote is a milestone, it is not the final approval; Metro will now focus on additional environmental analysis, design planning, community outreach, and developing a funding plan.
• 🗓️ Construction is expected to begin after securing additional funding, with a potential completion timeline around 2035, though this is subject to change.