LA Metro C Line Extension Moves Closer to Reality

Metro releases final environmental report for 4.6-mile C Line extension to Torrance

Metro Releases C Line Extension Environmental Report

Metro's released the final environmental impact report for its C Line Extension to Torrance, moving the 4.6-mile project closer to construction. The extension will add three new stations connecting South Bay communities directly to LAX and the regional rail network, transit officials said Thursday. The Metro Board's expected to consider project certification this fall, though a specific meeting date hasn't been announced.

Extension Addresses Decades-Long Transit Gap

The extension will stretch from the existing Redondo Beach Station to a new station near Torrance Transit Center, according to Metro. Officials said the project addresses a long-standing gap in South Bay transit connectivity that's been in planning for decades. The C Line currently runs approximately 20 miles from Redondo Beach to Norwalk and opened in 1995, making this the first major expansion in 30 years. Metro's Board approved the locally preferred alternative for the extension in January 2024, establishing the project scope that led to this final environmental review.

Three New Stations Planned Along Route

The extension will include stations at Aviation/Rosecrans, Hawthorne/Rosecrans, and Torrance Transit Center, Metro confirmed. The project's estimated to cost approximately $2.5 billion, though detailed funding sources haven't been publicly disclosed. Officials said the final environmental report addresses potential impacts and outlines mitigation measures required under California's Environmental Quality Act. Metro released the draft environmental impact report for public review in November 2023, and the final version incorporates feedback from that comment period.

Board Certification Expected This Fall

The Metro Board's expected to consider project certification this fall, officials said, though construction timelines haven't been announced. Those timelines will depend on Board certification and funding availability, according to the transit agency. Stephanie Wiggins, Chief Executive Officer of Metro, oversees the project as it moves through the approval process. Once certified, the project can proceed to final design and construction phases.

Direct LAX Connection for South Bay Riders

The extension will provide South Bay residents with direct access to LAX via the LAX/Metro Transit Center, eliminating the need for transfers. Officials said the project's expected to serve communities in Torrance, Redondo Beach, and surrounding areas, though specific ridership projections weren't released. Riders can track project updates and plan trips on the existing C Line using Moovit's real-time transit information.