Residents in East Los Angeles are expressing mixed reactions to Metro's proposed extension of the E Line light rail to Montebello, citing potential construction disruptions and impacts on local businesses, while also calling for more extensive community outreach.
The planned 4.7-mile extension would introduce four new stations, connecting East Los Angeles directly with Montebello. The project involves relocating the existing Atlantic station underground and will feature a combination of underground, aerial, and street-level tracks. Metro estimates the $7.9 billion project will be operational between 2035 and 2037.
Construction is slated to commence in 2029 and is expected to span eight to 10 years, contingent upon full funding approval. This extension is part of a larger strategy to eventually link the E Line to Whittier, though it will be implemented in two phases due to current funding limitations. Officials stated the extension aims to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce strain on local roadways.
However, attendees at a recent community meeting voiced significant concerns regarding the immediate consequences of construction and the adequacy of public engagement. Clara Solis, an East L.A. resident, criticized the 30-day public comment period as insufficient for such a complex undertaking, emphasizing the need for more thorough outreach. She also highlighted the potential economic hardships local businesses may face, drawing parallels to negative impacts experienced by businesses during the Gold Line construction.
Kristie Hernandez, another resident, advocated for extending outreach efforts beyond those living immediately adjacent to the project area, arguing that broader community members utilize these transit corridors. She proposed a 90-day comment window and called for detailed presentations on underground infrastructure safety, particularly in light of a recent incident involving a punctured pipeline in East L.A. that led to an oil spill in the L.A. River.
Conversely, Lucia Martinez, an elderly resident who relies on public transportation for her daily needs, expressed enthusiasm for the extension. She anticipates using the expanded E Line for shopping at Citadel Outlets and traveling to her hospital appointments in Pasadena, viewing the project as a significant improvement for non-drivers.
