#USA #Foothill Gold Line #Metro A Line #Monrovia #Construction Authority

Foothill Gold Line Celebrates Historic Achievements in 2025

In a remarkable year for public transportation, the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority has managed to achieve substantial milestones that will reshape transportation in the San Gabriel Valley. The recent completion of the Glendora to Pomona segment signifies a well-planned and executed project that aligns with timelines and budget expectations. This achievement represents a significant step for the region as it continues to expand its light rail infrastructure.

The Glendora to Pomona segment, encompassing a distance of 9 miles and comprising four new stations, officially achieved substantial completion on January 3, 2025. The cities of Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne, and Pomona now have increased accessibility to the Metro A Line system, which serves as an essential artery for commuter travel in Los Angeles County. After the successful turnover of this segment to Metro, the extension was opened for passenger service on September 19, 2025.

This accomplishment is noteworthy as it marks the third segment delivered by the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority, all achieved on time and within budget. Previous segments, extending from Union Station to Pasadena and from Pasadena to Azusa, were completed in the years 2003 and 2015, respectively, demonstrating a consistent record of timely project execution.

The Board Chair of the Foothill Gold Line, Ed Reece, expressed the significance of this advancement by stating, "This year, the San Gabriel Valley didn't just gain new tracks; it gained a new future." The new connections provided by the expanded light rail system will facilitate greater job opportunities, educational access, and housing options for many residents, fundamentally altering their living conditions and the dynamics of local communities.

Despite facing several challenges, including procurement issues related to the next phase of the project from Pomona to Claremont, the Construction Authority made notable strides. The original procurement process was halted due to concerns regarding efficiency and the effective use of taxpayer funds. In response, the Authority adopted the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) delivery method to prioritize a more streamlined approach. This new strategy has facilitated the initiation of separate procurement processes for design/engineering teams and construction managers, first starting in June for engineering and later in October for construction management.

As the year came to a close, the plans were adjusted to focus on the section of the Foothill Gold Line that lies within Los Angeles County. Following a decision in September by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) to withdraw funding for the project section in their jurisdiction, the Authority redirected its focus. Consequently, they anticipated hiring both design/engineering and construction management teams in the upcoming months.

Looking to 2026

As 2026 approaches, the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority is poised to finalize procurement processes for the Pomona to Claremont project. The initial contracts for both design and construction management are expected to be awarded early in the new year, with ongoing engineering and design work dominating the construction schedule. While major construction activities are anticipated to kick off in 2027, the groundwork for this essential project will commence well before then.

Board Chair Reece added, "We are moving into construction on the Pomona to Claremont segment thanks to Metro's unwavering investment and partnership." His confidence in the partnership with San Bernardino County is pivotal as it will enable the completion of the final two stations that are vital for enhancing regional mobility.

The Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority was founded in 1998 to develop the light rail system from Union Station to Claremont, later extending it to Montclair. Over the past 26 years, they have successfully completed more than 34 miles of rail with 23 stations and are gearing up to complete the final section, which is an extension set to begin in 2027 and finish by 2031.

This year ended on a high note for the Foothill Gold Line as it transitions into another exciting phase, reinforcing the importance of public transport in improving community connectivity and fostering urban development.