Full Breakdown
Los Angeles Metro D Line Extension Opens, Linking Downtown to Beverly Hills
5/9/2026, 10:32:44 PM
Phase 1 Opens
On May 8 2026, Metro began passenger service on the first phase of the D (Purple) Line extension, adding three underground stations—Wilshire/La Brea, Wilshire/Fairfax, and Wilshire/La Cienega—linking downtown Los Angeles to Beverly Hills.
Background & Context
Planning for a subway beneath Wilshire started in the 1960s; a 2014 groundbreaking launched the $9.7-$10 billion project, funded mainly by Measure R (2008) and Measure M (2016).
Data & Statistics
The 3.9-mile segment with three stations cost about $9.7 billion. Travel time from Union Station to Wilshire/La Cienega is 20-21 minutes versus 45-70 minutes by car. Trains run 4 a.m.–12:30 a.m., every 10 minutes daytime and 20 minutes after 9 p.m.; projected ridership is 49,000 daily.
Why It Matters
The line shortens travel across a congested corridor, connects museums and malls, and supports the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Faster, car-free trips aim to improve air quality and expand job access for lower-income residents.
Official Statements & Responses
Metro Board Chair Fernando Dutra described the extension as a milestone for Los Angeles' future. Mayor Karen Bass said the line reduces the city's size and improves connectivity. Tim Lindholm said the opening represents a game-changing development that breaks the east-west divide. CEO Stephanie Wiggins said the project will improve access to jobs, schools, and community connections. Metro highlighted free rides and a three-month activation program.
Criticism & Opposition
Experts warn that 20-minute night intervals may deter riders; Jacob Wasserman cited “long waits at night.” Residents such as Helen Cnassi doubt abandoning cars, calling Metro a “total failure” for delays.
On-the-Ground Reports
Rich Mannino plans daily rides, Autumn Nyiri says the line is “made for me,” and Rod Aissa notes it “makes us a fuller city.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Travel-time estimates vary: Metro cites 20 minutes, LA Times reports 21 minutes, and Fox LA mentions 23 minutes. Cost is reported as $9.7 billion (LA Times) and $10 billion (Fox LA). Ridership forecasts lack post-opening verification, and Phase 2/3 dates remain tentative.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a historic day.” — Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair
- “Today we celebrate progress, partnership and something Angelenos deserve: a city easier to move through and easier to connect in and built for the future.” — Mayor Karen Bass
- “We connect people to jobs, to school, and to each other, and with every project like this, those solutions get stronger.” — Stephanie Wiggins, Metro CEO
- “If I never have to sit in that traffic again, let’s go!” — Jerry O’Connell, actor
What’s Next
Metro will run the three-month activation pilot, continue construction toward the 2027 phases, and monitor ridership and safety as the system prepares for the 2028 Olympic influx.
