Metro Board Greenlights Design Plan for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project
Metro Approves Heavy Rail Project Connecting San Fernando Valley to Westside
In a significant step for public transportation in Los Angeles, Metro’s board of directors unanimously approved design plans for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project on Thursday. This initiative aims to offer a new transit route between the San Fernando Valley and the Westside, addressing one of the region’s busiest commutes along the 405 Freeway.
The board, following a recommendation from the Planning and Programming Committee, endorsed what is known as Modified Alternative 5. This design features a heavy rail transit option that will run underground from the Van Nuys Metrolink Station to the E Line Expo/Sepulveda Station. The proposal is also set to include a connection to the Metro G Line and the planned East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Line at Van Nuys Boulevard.
The proposed rail system would stretch nearly 13 miles and include seven stations. Starting at the Van Nuys Metrolink Station, it will feature three underground stops at Sherman Way, the Metro G Line on Oxnard Street, and Ventura Boulevard. Additional stations are slated for UCLA, Wilshire Boulevard/Metro D Line, Santa Monica Boulevard, culminating at the Metro E Line Expo/Sepulveda Station.
Metro estimates that the total cost of the project will range between $20 billion and $25 billion. Funding will partially come from Measure M, a half-cent sales tax approved by voters in 2016, designated to support transit initiatives.
While the initiative has garnered support from transportation advocates, it has faced opposition from local homeowner associations. Residents in areas such as Bel Air have voiced concerns, arguing against the construction of an underground rail system, indicating that tunneling would occur between Bel Air and Beverly Crest, as outlined in Metro’s documentation.
As plans move forward, the outcomes of this project could reshape commuting patterns and address longstanding traffic challenges in this densely populated region.
