Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joined San Fernando Valley leaders to break ground on the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project, launching construction on a nearly $4 billion investment in the region’s transportation network.

The project will build a 6.7-mile light rail line along Van Nuys Boulevard, with 11 stations serving Van Nuys, Panorama City, Arleta and Pacoima. According to the Mayor’s Office, the completed line will restore rail service to the corridor for the first time in more than 70 years.

Connections to Metrolink, Amtrak and the Metro G Line bus rapid transit service will improve access to jobs, schools, healthcare and local businesses.

Bass, who also chairs the Metro Board of Directors, said nearly 19% of residents in the communities served rely on public transportation. She described the project as an investment in safer, more reliable and affordable transportation, as well as local employment.

Addressing Longstanding Transportation Needs

Councilmember Adrin Nazarian said the Valley has waited too long for substantial transit investment. He highlighted his efforts in the State Legislature to secure dedicated SB 1 funding for rail infrastructure and welcomed the progress toward improved regional mobility.

Metro Board Member and Los Angeles City Councilmember Imelda Padilla called the groundbreaking a historic milestone for working-class communities. She said the project would connect residents to essential services, support local businesses and create opportunities for neighborhoods that have called the corridor home for generations.

Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez emphasized the environmental and infrastructure burdens long faced by the Northeast San Fernando Valley. She said the line would help reduce vehicle emissions, improve air quality and strengthen connections to regional employment centers.

More Than 18,000 Jobs Expected; Support Available for Businesses

The project is expected to create more than 18,000 good-paying jobs. Metro is also activating its Business Interruption Fund to provide direct financial grants to eligible small, locally owned businesses affected by construction.

The Eat, Shop, Play program will offer marketing support to businesses along the corridor, helping them build visibility and benefit from future station-related foot traffic. Business owners can find details on [Metro’s Business Interruption Fund website](https://metro.net/projects/business-interruption-fund-bif).


Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins said the San Fernando Valley is essential to building a connected Los Angeles County. She said the project would improve mobility for transit-dependent communities while supporting access to jobs and strengthening the local economy.

The Mayor’s Office said Bass has prioritized safety, affordability and reliability at Metro while preparing the system for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Metro Board also recently approved an additional $1 million for Open and Slow Streets events, including CicLAvia, supporting activities through July 2028.