LA METRO’s D Line Opens, OCTA Rolls out Bike Month 2026, BART throws 80s Prom in Rockridge, SacRT Receives Funding to Expand On‑Demand Wheelchair Accessible Service, San Francisco Bay Ferry Beats April Ridership Record, Free Rides on Bike Day at Metrolink, Tri Delta Transit Brings Back Youth Ride Free.
By Transit California Staff
LA METRO: Less Time Driving, More Time Living: Where Discovery, Diversity, Delight Meet on Metro’s D Line
Mid-Wilshire made a giant public transit leap forward when Metro celebrated the official opening of Section 1 of the D Line Subway Extension with a grand opening event on May 8, 2026. Riders can now go west beyond the Wilshire and Western station in Koreatown, with service to neighborhoods and communities including Hancock Park, Windsor Square, the Fairfax District and Cathay Circle into Beverly Hills in around 21 minutes.
“It’s finally opened! LA county residents are now connected from Downtown Los Angeles to Beverly Hills with three new beautiful underground stations making the trip through Mid-Wilshire to experience the culture, cuisine and commerce across diverse neighborhoods faster, easier and a lot more accessible,” said Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair. “Today we showed what’s possible when residents, community leaders and local, state and federal government agencies work together in a shared vision to improve the region’s mobility.”
The only new subway opening in the United States this year, the D Line Extension represents one of Metro’s top transit priorities and a historic milestone for Los Angeles, with Sections 2 and 3 set to open in 2027.
“For weeks, the D Line has been the talk of LA,” said Lindsey P. Horvath LA County Supervisor and Metro Board Member. “It’s clear Angelenos are ready for the D for what it delivers: less time in traffic, stronger local businesses, and easier access to jobs, school, healthcare, and the cultural institutions that make the Westside such a vital part of Los Angeles.”
The opening of Section 1 of the D Line Extension transforms the way many riders will experience the Metro system, providing a seamless, single-seat ride from Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles to La Cienega in Beverly Hills in around 21 minutes. Riders will now have access to three new underground stations.
“Los Angeles spent the last century building Wilshire Boulevard around cars. Now we’re building for people,” said Katy Yaroslavsky, Metro Board Member and LA City Council Member. “The D Line Extension is reshaping one of Los Angeles’ most important corridors. As these stations open from Miracle Mile to Century City and Westwood, we have an opportunity to create greener, safer, more walkable neighborhoods where more people can live close to transit. In my roles on the Metro Board and City Council, I’m focused on making sure we fully realize the potential of this investment.”
These new Metro stations themselves are the newest museum destinations to join Museum Row. Riders will be greeted by large-scale, architecturally integrated artworks by renowned contemporary artists Mariana Castillo Deball, Eamon Ore-Giron, Ken Gonzales-Day, Todd Gray, Karl Haendel, Soo Kim, Fran Siegel, Susan Silton, and Mark Dean Veca. Artworks were commissioned by the agency’s Metro Art program, which worked closely with curators from leading Los Angeles museums and cultural organizations.
The full D Line Extension will be a critical connection for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games with its stop in Westwood and the athlete village at UCLA.
“Today marks a transformative moment for Los Angeles. The opening of Section 1 of the D Line Extension is more than a transit project — it is a bold investment in our people, our neighborhoods, and our future. By connecting Downtown to the Westside, we are breaking down barriers, expanding opportunity, and building a city that is more united, accessible, and prepared for generations to come,” said LA Mayor Karen Bass and Metro Board Member. “I congratulate LA Metro on this historic achievement and on delivering infrastructure that will move our economy forward, strengthen our communities, and ensure that every Angeleno has greater access to jobs, education, and opportunity.”
Every day for the next 90 days, Metro will activate these new stations with more than 100 experiences, welcoming riders into three distinct neighborhoods through local pop-up coffee carts, boutique vendors, weekly farmers markets, dance classes, and more.
Continuing a Metro tradition, limited-edition TAP cards have also been created to reflect the unique culture and character of the communities surrounding each station.
“This moment has been years in the making and is a powerful example of how thoughtful infrastructure investments can expand possibilities for residents across Los Angeles County,” said Holly J. Mitchell, Metro Board Member and Los Angeles County Supervisor. “I am thrilled to welcome the new stops along the D Line in my district and look forward to seeing the line connect communities from Downtown Los Angeles to the Westside with fast, reliable transit. These new stations not only improve access to cultural institutions, local businesses, and everyday destinations, but also reflect our commitment to building a more equitable and accessible transportation system for all.”
As with previous construction projects, Section 1 of the D Line Extension was designed and built with the help of community input and local voices. In addition, the project benefitted from Metro’s Board-approved small business mitigation programs: the Business Interruption Fund that provides financial assistance to those businesses located along project corridors and Eat Shop Play, which provides them with marketing assistance. Both helped support small businesses in the areas along this project during construction. The Business Interruption Fund awarded 465 grants to 122 small businesses around Section 1 totaling more than $14 million and the Eat Shop Play program provided free marketing assistance to 52 businesses.
“Today’s opening is a transformative moment for Los Angeles and a clear demonstration of what sustained investment in public transit can deliver for our region,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “Riders can get from DTLA to Beverly Hils in 21 minutes, and we’re not stopping here. With Sections 2 and 3 on track to reach Century City and Westwood next year, we’re building a world-class transit system that will serve Angelenos for generations to come and help prepare our city for the global stage. This is a clear example of the Olympics legacy already in motion.”
Section 1 of the D Line Extension was funded primarily by Metro’s 2008 Measure R transportation sales taxes. Local sales tax funding also secured federal matching funds including $1.25 billion FFGA, $66.4 million of supplemental New Starts, and $12.7 million in CMAQ funding and $749.3 million loan from TIFIA in May 2014.
OCTA Rolls out Bike Month 2026, Ride Along
Annual Bike Rally features a 4-mile ride and prize opportunities, and pledge to bike during May for a chance to win an e-bike while staying active
OCTA has been celebrating Bike Month this May by encouraging people across Orange County to get out and ride, whether for commuting, recreation or short everyday trips. The monthlong campaign highlights the benefits of biking as a convenient, healthy and sustainable way to travel.
As part of the celebration, OCTA hosted its annual Bike Rally on Wednesday, May 13, featuring a 4-mile group ride from the Orange Metrolink Station to OCTA headquarters in Orange.
The rally served as a signature Bike Month event, bringing riders together for a shared experience on city streets while showcasing how easy and accessible biking can be throughout the county. Participants were entered for a chance to win an Aventon Pace 4 Step-Through e-bike, valued at $1,799, along with other prizes. Riders also received free Bike Month T-shirts and light snacks.
Those who pledged to ride a bike during May were entered for a chance to win an Aventon Soltera 2.5 e-bike, valued at $1,199, courtesy of Bike Month sponsors Aventon E-bikes and Spectrumotion.
Beyond Bike Month, OCTA continues to invest in active transportation infrastructure and programs that make it safer and more convenient for people to walk and bike throughout Orange County. Working in partnership with local cities and the county, OCTA helps fund and deliver projects such as protected bike lanes, regional trail connections and first- and last-mile improvements that link neighborhoods to transit.
These efforts are designed to reduce reliance on cars, improve air quality and support healthier, more active communities.
OCTA is also encouraging riders to make safety a priority. An e-bike safety video is available with tips for riding responsibly, and those who watch can be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card.
Together, these efforts are designed to inspire more people to consider biking as an easy, efficient and environmentally friendly way to get around.
BART Prom comes to Rockridge for an all-ages 80s dance party on June 6
Next Stop: Prom night. Break out the taffeta, tease up that hair, and dust off your dancing shoes. BART is hosting its first-ever prom at Rockridge Station. Skip the pricy stretch limo and take a ride that’s even longer: a BART train. All ages are welcome. Bring a date or don’t!
On Saturday, June 6, from 6pm to 10pm, the Rockridge Station parking lot will transform into a fully decorated dance hall for BART Prom: Enchantment Under the C Line, an all-ages, 1980s-themed celebration with an under-the-sea twist. Whether you missed your prom, just want a do-over, or younger kids in your house want to experience a prom, this is your stop.
The night will feature a DJ and live band playing hits from the 80s and beyond. The BART Prom Court will be crowned at 8pm (more info on how to enter to win below).
Every ticket includes entry to the event, unlimited punch, a BART boutonniere or corsage, and a printed prom photo keepsake.
What to expect:
The event space will be transformed with rad decorations that blend prom-night sparkle with under-the-sea flair.
A BART Prom Court will be crowned during the event, just like a traditional prom! Winners receive special BART-themed crowns and free entry to the event.
To win the coveted crown, post your BART promposal on social media by May 31 and tag BART (see handles below). Staff will select three finalists, and the public will vote for the winners via an Instagram poll before the event.
Why "Under the C Line"?: That’s how BART staff internally refer to a section of the Yellow Line, and for one night, we’ll venture “under the C” to celebrate. The 1980s inspiration comes from a defining era for BART, when service expanded, ridership surged, and new train cars and infrastructure helped shape the system riders know today (and who doesn’t love an 80s prom?).
Dress code: 80s-inspired, any generation of prom attire, under-the-sea themed, or any creative look that fits the vibe. Outfits must be appropriate for an all-ages event.
SacRT Receives $3.76 Million in CPUC Funding to Continue and Expand On‑Demand Wheelchair Accessible Service
The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) has been awarded $3.76 million in California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Access for All (AFA) Program funding to continue and expand its current SacRT Flex Microtransit pilot program, which provides on‑demand wheelchair accessible transportation for seniors, low-income, and individuals with disabilities throughout Sacramento County.
SacRT serves as the CPUC‑designated Local Access Fund Administrator (LAFA) for Sacramento County and administers the Program locally using CPUC’s established guidelines, eligibility criteria, and scoring requirements.
The SacRT Flex shared-ride neighborhood service earned the highest score based on its demonstrated ability to improve mobility, reduce wait times, and expand equitable access to on‑demand wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) service in Sacramento County.
Pending Board approval on Monday, May 11, 2026, SacRT will continue to operate the service in partnership with Nomad Transit, LLC, a subsidiary of Via Transportation.
The three‑year award will support WAV operations from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, and will help SacRT:
“Ensuring equitable access to transportation is central to SacRT’s mission,” said Henry Li, SacRT General Manager/CEO. “This funding allows us to expand an already successful pilot and better serve community members who rely on WAV transportation for daily mobility and independence.”
CPUC allows transit agencies to serve as both the Local Access Fund Administrator and an Access Provider when they meet Program Guidelines and demonstrate community benefit, a structure used by several transit agencies statewide.
SacRT will continue to collaborate closely with disability advocates and community partners, including the Mobility Advisory Council (MAC), to refine and improve accessible on‑demand service across the region.
San Francisco Bay Ferry Beats April Ridership Record
San Francisco Bay Ferry announced it beat its all-time April ridership record, registering better than 100% recovery for the fifth consecutive month. The system, which operates ferry service connecting the East Bay to San Francisco and the Peninsula, carried 285,886 passengers in April. The previous high-water mark for SF Bay Ferry ridership in April was 274,361 passengers in 2019.
April ferry ridership grew 10% year over year. SF Bay Ferry’s 12-month ridership is 3.2 million through the end of April, 17% higher than at this point a year ago. Year-over-year ferry ridership has grown for 58 consecutive months.
In 2021, the agency relaunched ferry service built around providing robust commute and off-peak service at lower fares. SF Bay Ferry has also leaned into new services including the Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle connecting Jack London Square to Alameda Landing and popular service to Chase Center for Valkyries and Warriors games.
Customer satisfaction ratings for SF Bay Ferry have reached at least 98% in three consecutive years.
Metrolink Offers Free Rides for Cyclists on “Bike Day”
Metrolink, Southern California’s regional passenger rail service, celebrated “Bike Day” on Thursday, May 21 by offering complimentary rides on all trains, including the Arrow service, to customers traveling with a bicycle. Riders bringing a bike aboard did not need to purchase a ticket, as their bicycle served as fare for the day.
“Bike Day is about showing Southern Californians how easily cycling and public transit can work together,” Metrolink Board Chair Doug Chaffee said. “Many of our riders use bikes for first- and last-mile connections, adding exercise and sustainability into their everyday routines. This is a chance for others to explore pairing these complementary modes of transportation, while riding for free on Bike Day.”
Cyclists may board any train car and are asked to follow Metrolink’s bike policy by utilizing safe and secure bike storage areas. Most Metrolink rail cars accommodate up to three bicycles, while designated bike cars can hold as many as nine. Not all Metrolink train sets are equipped with a bike car. Arrow trains can carry up to 12 bikes per car. Standard single-rider bicycles, as well as electric bikes that meet size and weight requirements, are permitted onboard.
For riders looking to turn their trip into an outdoor adventure, Metrolink’s website featured a curated guide to some of the best bike paths accessible by rail. Featured routes span the system and include destinations such as the Mount Rubidoux Trail in Riverside and the Mountains to Sea Trail in Tustin.
Also on May 21, LA Metro offered free rides for all customers across its bus and rail network, with no bike required. Metro Bike Share provided complimentary 30-minute rides at kiosks and through the Metro Bike Share app.
Tri Delta Transit: Youth Ride Free Returns for Summer 2026
Following a highly successful youth program last summer, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, and WestCAT will continue the Youth Ride Free program, offering fare-free rides on all fixed-bus routes for youth up to 18 years of age from June 1 through July 31, 2026. County Connection will also extend the Youth Ride Free program to its LINK paratransit service.
With strong participation and widespread grassroots community support, Youth Ride Free has quickly become a cornerstone program for expanding access and mobility for young riders across the three connecting service areas in Contra Costa County. By removing barriers—no fares, applications, IDs, or special passes required—young riders can simply get on board, making transit more accessible than ever.
“The Youth Ride Free program provides a vital mobility option for our youth in eastern Contra Costa,” said CEO Rashidi Barnes. “This valuable initiative allows our young people to participate freely in summer sports and school programs, connect with friends and family, all without relying on a car. Furthermore, as a teenager growing up in the Bay Area, public transportation enabled me to secure a summer job, which helped me support the local economy and develop important life skills.”
Last year alone, Tri Delta Transit transported 40,000 youth during June and July and expects to reach similar ridership levels this year. Recognizing the significant impact of the program, Tri Delta Transit thanks District 3 County Supervisor Diane Burgis and District 5 County Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston for their financial commitment, which has ensured the continuation of the 2026 Youth Ride Free program in eastern Contra Costa County.
Says Rob Thompson, General Manager of WestCAT, “Our goal this summer is simple— remove barriers and make it easier for young people to get where they need to go. By offering free rides, we’re supporting opportunity, independence, and stronger connections across our community.”
During last year’s Youth Ride Free pilot, WestCAT saw a 1,170% increase in youth ridership compared to the previous year. In 2025, WestCAT was the only participating agency that required students to show IDs to board—a requirement that did not significantly impact ridership. In 2026, WestCAT will eliminate this requirement, further aligning with the program’s barrier-free approach.
County Connection’s program also demonstrated a transformative impact on youth mobility, with more than 25,000 free rides recorded over two months—an increase of more than 1,600% compared to previous summer programs. This growth was driven in large part by strong community support, including school districts, parents, and local organizations that helped raise awareness and encourage participation.
“I’m very proud of our staff for creating a program that allows our students to ride our buses,” said Robert Storer, Board Chair of County Connection. “When a program takes what was near stagnant youth ridership in the summer months and boosts it to 25,000 rides, as it did with Youth Ride Free, that’s a powerful measure of success. It shows what’s possible when we remove barriers and work closely with our community.
Beyond increased ridership across all participating agencies, the program also shifted how young people travel, attracting many first-time riders. While Youth Ride Free removes fares for riders, all three agency-led programs are supported through alternative, short-term funding sources.
As Contra Costa and other Bay Area transit agencies navigate an uncertain long-term funding landscape, initiatives like Youth Ride Free represent a strategic investment in
cultivating the next generation of transit riders. Building on this momentum, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, and WestCAT will continue working closely with regional partners to strengthen transit connections and expand opportunities for youth throughout Contra Costa County.
2026 Holiday Merch Presale: Buy the BART Frankensweater thru June 5
Shop the Presale on Railgoods.com
Over the past five years, BART has offered many variations of our beloved holiday sweaters. This year, we stitched them all together into a gloriously chaotic creation, allowing you to wear multiple eras of BART holiday merch at the same time.
It’s fun. It’s maximalist. It’s festive. It’s the BART Holiday Frankensweater. And even though it’s getting hot outside, we believe it’s never too early to start your holiday shopping.
Orders are anticipated to ship/be available for pickup in September, giving customers plenty of time to prepare for sweater season.
Other featured holiday goods include the BARTy Light-Up Necklace (special presale price: .99) and BARTy Holiday Sticker ($1.99).
Details + discount
Sweaters cost $49.99 and are available in sizes XS-5XL. Sweaters run small, so we recommend sizing up. For the presale only, we are offering the following promotional discounts on holiday purchases. The code does not apply to non-holiday merchandise.
Enter the discount codes at checkout:
$10 off purchases of $50 or more - HOLIDAY10
$25 off purchases of $100 more - HOLIDAY25
Demand for BART holiday sweaters has become so intense that we now launch sales months ahead of the holidays to make sure fans can get them with plenty of time to spare.
Last year, Railgoods sold nearly 3,000 sweaters. Proceeds support BART in its mission to provide safe and reliable rail service to the region.
“Riders have been asking us to bring back some of our older holiday sweater designs, and his year’s sweater does just that, making it both nostalgic for longtime fans and fresh for new customers,” said Director of BART Customer Services Erica Iñiguez-Diaz.
BART holiday sweaters are famous. We were one of the first transit agencies in the nation to sell them, and many have since designed their own. The Bay Area remains a transit merch innovator.
Expect compliments, questions, and at least one stranger yelling across the platform, “Where’d ya get that?”
Shop the presale now through June 5 and buy other BART merch at Railgoods.com.
Be the first to know about BART Merch Drops. Sign up for emails at bart.gov/profile and check the "Merch Drop" box in step 3.