Metro invited me, along with Metro Board Members and members of the Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority, to take a sneak peak train ride on the Gold Line Foothill Extension before its March 5th opening.

Excited for my first ride on the Gold Line Extension!

View from the conductor’s seat.

We took the ride on the new Kinkisharyo trains.  The ride was the smoothest I’ve felt on any train, and the seats were quite comfortable.  Monitors in the train cars listed the upcoming stops.  And there is nothing as awesome as a new train smell!

The new Kinkisharyo train, which will be taking passengers on the new Gold Line extension.

The extension took us from the Sierra Madre Villa Station to the end of the line in Azusa.  The day was picturesque, which enhanced the beautiful backdrop of the San Gabriel mountains.

The Sierra Madre Villa Station–where the Gold Line used to end.

Picturesque views at the APU/Citrus College station–the Gold Line’s new end of the line.

I spoke with Metro CEO Phil Washington about the new stations, which are beautifully designed with lots of amenities.  They include ample parking for cars and bikes, and each one includes three vehicle charging stations.  Washington believes that these well-designed stations will encourage San Gabriel Valley commuters to choose Metro over driving on the congested 210 Freeway.

View of the APU/Citrus College station

Beautifully-designed Arcadia Gold Line Station

I’m excited for the opening of the new extension, and what that will bring for commuters in the SGV.  Glad to see so much expansion with LA’s rail system!  I’m looking forward to the Expo Line Extension’s opening this spring.