Project Profile: East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit

The East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit (LRT) project is a transformative infrastructure initiative by LA Metro to establish a new 9.2-mile at-grade light rail line, enhancing public transit connectivity and capacity in Los Angeles. As a critical component of the region’s ’28 by 2028′ plan, the project employs a phased construction strategy to connect key communities and alleviate traffic congestion ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games. The system is engineered for efficiency and sustainability, integrating modern traction power systems and renewable energy elements.

Project Fact Sheet

Technical Specifications

The project’s infrastructure is divided into two phases. Phase one establishes a 6.7-mile (10.7 km) corridor along Van Nuys Boulevard with 11 stations, while phase two adds a 2.5-mile (4.02 km) extension with three additional stations, terminating at the Sylmar/San Fernando Metrolink Station. The system’s 14 stations are designed to ADA standards with standardized platform dimensions: 270 ft length, 3.25 ft height, and widths of 12.2 ft for side platforms and 16 ft for center platforms. Power is delivered to a fleet of 34 light rail vehicles via an Overhead Catenary System (OCS), supported by 14 strategically located Traction Power Substations (TPSS) to ensure consistent operational voltage. A new 25-acre Maintenance and Storage Facility (MSF), designed by Gannett Fleming, will support all vehicle maintenance, storage, and operational control for the line.

Strategic Importance & Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Regional Connectivity: The project creates a vital north-south transit spine in the San Fernando Valley, directly linking the Metro G Line (Orange) to the Metrolink commuter rail network and improving access for historically underserved communities.
• Olympic Infrastructure Milestone: As a cornerstone of LA Metro’s ’28 by 2028′ initiative, the project’s completion timeline is aligned with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, aiming to showcase a modernized, high-capacity public transportation system.
• Sustainable Transit Solution: By offering a reliable alternative to private vehicle use, the electric-powered LRT system is engineered to reduce regional carbon emissions and traffic congestion. Station designs incorporate sustainable elements, including infrastructure for photovoltaic solar panels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)