Construction is set to begin this week on a new light rail line in the San Fernando Valley, marking the region’s first commuter rail service in over 70 years. The East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project will span 6.7 miles, running along Van Nuys Boulevard between Van Nuys and Pacoima. The project, with an estimated cost approaching $4 billion, is expected to open in 2032, according to Los Angeles County’s transit agency, L.A. Metro.

Originally approved in 2018, the project faced delays and budget increases that have extended the timeline by approximately five years. Initial plans called for construction to begin in 2021 and the line to open by 2027, with an estimated cost of $1.3 billion. Officials cited a comprehensive environmental review and funding challenges for the postponement. Despite these obstacles, the Metro board approved a budget increase in May to cover rising construction costs, supported by a combination of state, federal, and local funds, including Measures R and M sales tax measures and an $893 million federal grant.

Metro chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joined agency officials for a groundbreaking ceremony earlier this week. Local representatives emphasized the project’s significance in addressing transit equity for communities in the eastern San Fernando Valley, which have been underserved by public transportation for decades. Councilmember Adrin Nazarian described the initiative as a “long-overdue economic justice” effort benefiting immigrant populations who rely heavily on public transit. Currently, the corridor is served by two bus lines with roughly 20,000 boardings per day as of September.

The East Valley had not seen rail service since 1952, when the Pacific Electric streetcars ceased operations. Metro board member and Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath highlighted the area’s heavy transit demand and its dependence on public transportation, framing the light rail line as a crucial development for the region.

Community engagement has been ongoing since 2010 to address the project’s impacts. Construction will eliminate some parking along Van Nuys Boulevard and cause disruptions, prompting Metro to provide grants to affected small businesses. State Assemblymember Celeste Rodriguez noted efforts by her office and local coalitions to keep residents and business owners informed and minimize negative effects. She emphasized that a successful transit project involves more than infrastructure, calling for considerations such as accessible sidewalks, shaded waiting areas, reliable connections, safety, and adequate lighting.

Upon completion, the new line will connect to existing transit services, including Metro’s G Line and the Van Nuys Metrolink-Amtrak station, with future plans to link to the proposed Sepulveda Transit Corridor train. The project aims to improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance quality of life for residents throughout the eastern San Fernando Valley.