The Metro A Line extension opened four new stations on Sept. 19, 2025, bringing improved transit to local neighborhoods. The Metro A Line extension runs from Azusa to Pomona, restoring rail service east of Pasadena. Riders now have access to Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne/Fairplex and Pomona North stations. The line expansion offers faster commutes and new connections to business districts and schools.
Extension Improves Local Transit Access for Residents
Each new station provides park-and-ride lots with more than 300 spaces, EV charging and bike parking. Service runs every eight minutes at peak times and every 10 minutes off-peak on weekdays. Weekend service is every 10 minutes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Late-night trains arrive every 20 minutes until midnight. Riders can link to Foothill Transit buses at each stop. The Pomona North station also connects with Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line. Students at nearby colleges gain a direct, no-transfer ride to 19 campuses along the corridor.
Community groups in Glendora and La Verne celebrated the opening with ribbon-cuttings. Local officials said the project will cut traffic on surface streets and ease congestion near schools. The four new stops create fresh transit options for families and workers.
Extension Spurs Growth and Community Benefits
Business owners near the new stations expect higher foot traffic. San Dimas merchants plan to extend shop hours to serve evening riders. The Fairplex venue in Pomona will see more event attendees using rail service. Transit planners note reduced greenhouse gas emissions as drivers shift to trains. The project aligns with Metro’s Twenty-Eight by ’28 effort to upgrade transit before the 2028 Olympics.
Housing advocates also praised the extension. Affordable housing near stations offers residents a car-free lifestyle. Developers are planning mixed-use projects within a half-mile of Glendora and San Dimas stops. City councils are updating zoning rules to encourage walkable communities.
A $1.5 billion investment, Phase 2B of the Foothill Extension was delivered by the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority. Work began in 2019 and wrapped up this year. The four new stations extend the line’s total length to nearly 60 miles, making it the world’s longest light-rail system. Riders and local leaders agree the added service will strengthen neighborhood ties and boost economic vitality.
Looking Ahead: Long-Term Impact
Metro plans feeder bus adjustments to serve station areas. Community outreach teams will gather rider feedback through early 2026. Local colleges will promote student transit passes for use on the A Line. Businesses can apply for Metro’s transit-oriented development grants to support station-area improvements.
The extension’s impact will unfold over months and years. Early data on ridership and traffic patterns will guide future transit investments in the San Gabriel Valley. Regional planners say the success of this project could shape similar expansions in other counties. For details, visit https://www.metro.net/projects/foothill-extension-phase-2b/
