News Summary
The Metro D Line, also known as the Purple Line, will reopen after a significant closure aimed at extending transit options in Los Angeles. The D Line Extension Project, which cost approximately $3.7 billion, is nearly complete, featuring three new stations. Despite a decrease in ridership during the closure, officials are optimistic about improved connectivity as the project continues. The expansion is part of a larger initiative to enhance regional transit ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Los Angeles – The Metro D Line, also known as the Purple Line, is set to reopen on Saturday, July 26, 2025, following a 70-day closure that began on May 17, 2025. This closure was necessary to facilitate construction for the D Line Extension Project, which aims to enhance transit connectivity between downtown Los Angeles and the Westside.
The first phase of the D Line Extension Project is budgeted at an estimated $3.7 billion and will introduce three new stations: Wilshire/La Brea, Wilshire/Fairfax, and Wilshire/La Cienega. Metro officials report that this phase is currently 98% complete, with plans for openings later this year. Final tasks include finishing touches at the stations, restoring streets, and conducting essential testing.
Throughout the 70-day closure, extensive work was completed, including the connection of communication and power systems between the current D Line and the newly constructed section. Additionally, tracks have been laid, lighting systems installed, and tunneling for this portion of the line has been finalized. Metro continues to operate around the clock to ensure that the subway systems are integrated safely and function effectively together.
Prior to the closure, the D Line route between downtown Los Angeles and Koreatown was one of the Metro’s most heavily trafficked lines, averaging over 65,000 daily boardings. However, Metro Chief Executive Stephanie Wiggins noted that the closure led to a 13.5% decline in ridership, marking the lowest June boardings since 2022. During the disruption, riders relied on an expanded Metro B Line service and shuttle services from Koreatown to maintain connectivity.
The D Line Extension Project is designed to eventually add a total of seven stations, linking Hancock Park, Century City, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. Construction for the second phase, which includes the Wilshire/Rodeo and Century City/Constellation stations, is anticipated to conclude in 2026. The final section of the extension, featuring the Westwood/UCLA and Westwood/VA Hospital stations, is scheduled for completion in 2027. The full project aims to be completed in time for the 2028 Summer Olympics.
This expansion is part of Metro’s broader initiative, “Twenty-Eight by ’28,” which is focused on improving regional transit systems ahead of the upcoming international event. Metro is also actively working to address safety concerns and enhance security across its stations following prior incidents.
The reopening of the D Line is expected to significantly improve transit options for residents and visitors as Los Angeles gears up for greater connectivity throughout the city.
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Additional Resources
- KTLA News
- Wikipedia: Los Angeles Metro
- Los Angeles Times
- Google Search: Los Angeles subway line reopening
- Westside Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Los Angeles Metro
- MSN News
- Google News: Metro D Line
