The hum of traffic along the congested freeways of Southeast Los Angeles may soon be joined by a new soundtrack – the rhythmic rumble of light rail trains. In a historic vote, the Los Angeles Metro Board of Directors has decisively pushed forward the estimated $8.6 billion Southeast Gateway Line project. This new transit artery will bisect an area often neglected by large-scale infrastructure development, according to a report in Urbanize.
“No more waiting and wondering, this project will go forward,” declared L.A. County Supervisor and Metro Board Vice Chair Janice Hahn in a news release. “The era of Southeast LA and the Gateway Cities being left behind by new Metro rail projects is over. The cities along the line are ready, future riders are ready, and now we can finally get to work building this transformational project.”
Funding and Project Timeline
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) has significant funding in place for the Southeast Gateway Line, with $4 billion secured as part of the Measure M transportation measure, according to published reports. Construction is slated to begin in multiple stages, with the initial environmental studies released and the Draft EIS/EIR prepared for public comment. Metro anticipates an accelerated timeline for the project, potentially driven by the “Twenty-eight by ’28” initiative, and an estimated cost of $8.6 billion.
Challenges and Name Change
The project has faced some obstacles, including a lawsuit from the City of Cerritos over the planned route and an associated cost dispute. The lengthy planning phase, spanning two decades, led Metro to rebrand the project in 2023 as the Southeast Gateway Line, reflecting that it would not extend as far south as initially envisioned. Despite these challenges, Metro is pushing forward, with construction anticipated to start in 2025 and a projected opening date of 2035.
A Line of Opportunity
The first phase of the Southeast Gateway Line will stretch 14.5 miles, connecting South Los Angeles to Artesia via eight stations. The line will follow a historic rail corridor, bringing new life to communities like Vernon, Huntington Park, Bell, Cudahy, South Gate, Downey, Paramount, Bellflower, and Cerritos. Phase two will extend the line northward into the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, integrating with major transit hubs like Union Station.
The economic impact is projected to be profound. Supervisor Hahn estimates up to 46,000 new jobs will be created, a lifeline for an area struggling with high poverty rates. With over $2 billion in state and local funding already secured, the project is well-positioned to attract federal investment, helping cover the total $7.1 billion cost.
Transforming Transportation, Transforming Lives
The Southeast Gateway Line holds the promise of dramatically altering the daily reality for residents. Currently reliant on cars and buses, commuters will have a faster, more reliable option. This could lead to reduced congestion, improved air quality, and easier access to jobs and educational opportunities throughout the region.
Construction on the first phase could begin as early as late 2024, with the line potentially opening for service by 2035. The entire project is anticipated to be complete by 2053.
Downtown Debate: Underground or Above?
While the overall project has broad support, stakeholders in Downtown Los Angeles are divided on the best approach for the final stretch along Alameda Street. Some advocate for a fully subterranean tunnel, arguing it will minimize disruption to businesses and create a more aesthetically pleasing streetscape. Others favor an elevated track, citing lower costs. The final decision and its financing may hinge on the creation of an enhanced infrastructure district to close the funding gap between the two options.
The Southeast Gateway Line represents a triumph of both vision and pragmatism. It’s a recognition that equitable investment in public transportation is fundamental to creating a thriving, inclusive Los Angeles for all its residents.
