The Claremont City Council meeting on January 14 marked a significant achievement for the Foothill Gold Line extension project. Ed Reece, the chair of the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority, highlighted the completion of the light rail construction between Azusa, Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne, and Pomona. This $1.5 billion project, which includes four new stations, has been completed on time and within budget. The Construction Authority is now preparing to hand over the project to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for testing and training before final approvals from the California Public Utilities Commission. Reece expressed optimism that the community could see operational services by mid-year.

This major infrastructure development began with a multi-million-dollar contract signed in 2019 between Kiewit-Parsons Joint Venture and the Construction Authority. The agreement covered the construction of four light rail stations, along with various systems and testing facilities, parking structures, and extensive civil works including bridges and sound walls. After nearly two and a half years and over 2.6 million work hours, the project has reached substantial completion. Funding for this 9.1-mile extension came from multiple sources, including Measure M sales tax revenues, leftover funds from Measure R, and grants from state transportation authorities.

The successful completion of this segment paves the way for further expansion. Attention will soon shift eastward as the Construction Authority plans to connect Pomona, Claremont, and Montclair via the same Metro A Line extension. In November 2024, an agreement was finalized to fund the remaining 3.2 miles of track, adding two more stations in Claremont and Montclair. The majority of this funding comes from state grants aimed at enhancing public transit infrastructure.

The opening of the Foothill Gold Line segment represents a crucial step forward in improving regional connectivity and public transportation options. With the next phase already underway, residents can look forward to expanded access and greater mobility across the region. The completion of this ambitious project underscores the commitment to sustainable and efficient transportation solutions, benefiting both current and future generations.