Foothill Gold Line Update: State of the Project 2016

Last Friday on the campus of Pomona College in Claremont, the Construction Authority convened the Foothill Gold Line State of the Project 2016. The informative half-day conference updated the nearly 200 local officials and key corridor stakeholders in attendance about the status of the planning, design, funding and timing for the Glendora to Montclair extension; as well as provided an opportunity to explore and learn how the Gold Line has influenced change along the light rail corridor since the first segment opened for service 13 years ago and the dramatic success stories that ensued.

Real estate and economic experts, land use and transportation planners, and executives from numerous cities and universities, participated in panel discussions on transit oriented developments, higher education and station area success stories that promote higher densities, connectivity and active transportation. Videos of the different panel sessions, as well as the opening session with Metro Chairman John Fasana moderating a discussion on the status of the project with Metro Deputy CEO Stephanie Wiggins, Foothill Gold Line Chief Project Officer Chris Burner and myself will soon be available on our website.

At lunch, conference attendees heard from Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, the keynote speaker, who emphasized the importance of Measure M and its impacts to the future of the region. He was joined by U.S. Representatives Grace Napolitano, Judy Chu and Norma Torres; each was passionate about the project, and the importance of extending the line further east. Officiating over the proceedings were Metro Chairman, Foothill Gold Line Board member, and Duarte Council member John Fasana and Claremont Mayor and Foothill Gold Line Board Vice Chairman Sam Pedroza.