On September 19, 2025, the Los Angeles Metro A Line extended its reach to Pomona, adding 9.1 miles and four new stations through the Foothill Phase 2B project. With this expansion, the A Line now spans over 57 miles, maintaining its status as the longest light-rail line in the world.
Before service began on the extension, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) played a central role in safety oversight. As California’s State Safety Oversight Agency for public transit guideways, CPUC collaborated with LA Metro’s Rail Safety Team over several years to verify that all gates, signals, and emergency systems were ready for operation.
A key part of this process was the Safety Certification Verification Report (SCVR), which is required under CPUC General Order 164-F for major rail projects across California. The SCVR confirmed that more than 6,000 certifiable elements—from bridge structures and fire alarms to crossing gates and signage—were reviewed through design, construction, and testing phases. Most items were fully approved before opening day; a few remaining tasks are being finished under close supervision by CPUC staff.
The SCVR also included inspections such as grade crossing verifications and system integration tests to ensure safe communication between systems during simulated service. Fire and emergency preparedness drills trained first responders prior to passenger operations. By early 2025, all identified hazards had been addressed and local fire departments issued a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy confirming no outstanding fire or life-safety concerns.
Daren S. Gilbert, Program Manager for the CPUC Rail Transit Safety Branch, stated: “Our goal is simple: to ensure every rail project in California meets the highest standards of public safety before a single passenger steps onboard.”
He added that “The SCVR is more than a technical requirement. It is a record of accountability. By verifying everything from the smallest gate hinge to complex signaling software, the CPUC ensures that Californians can enjoy the benefits of expanded transit safely.”
The Foothill Extension now links communities from Glendora through Pomona and into downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach. According to information from LA Metro’s Foothill Gold Line webpage, this expansion aims to improve regional connectivity for residents across San Gabriel Valley.
For additional details about ongoing safety efforts on California rail lines, more information is available at the CPUC’s Rail Transit Safety Branch webpage.
