The Gold Line extension project from Glendora to Pomona has reached its final testing phase, a significant milestone for the Northeast San Gabriel Valley public transit extension, ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The project is on track for completion by the beginning of 2025.
According to the latest report from the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority, more than 90% of the eastward extension from Glendora to Pomona has been completed as of late October. Construction personnel are currently conducting final test runs while finishing up details at four stations—Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne, and Pomona—along with parking facilities. This includes the installation of safety warning systems for train arrivals and departures and decorative art features at the stations.
The 9.1-mile extension spans four cities and has commenced its testing phase, primarily during the night. However, there may be sporadic daytime testing as well. Given the project’s route through densely populated areas and commercial centers, officials urge residents and motorists to remain vigilant during the test runs, where trains may reach high speeds.
Launched in spring 2020 with a total investment of $2.1 billion and set to span eight years, this eastern extension encompasses two phases—Glendora to Pomona and Pomona to Montclair—covering a total of 12.3 miles. The project includes the construction and refurbishment of 24 road bridges and the addition of 26 ground interchange points, making it the fourth largest construction initiative in Los Angeles County. Notably, each of the six city stations boasts a unique architectural design.
The Glendora station, as the first stop on the extension, is located at the intersection of Vermont Avenue and W. Glendora Avenue. Its design theme, “A Slice of Sunshine,” captures the local orange heritage, featuring custom ceramic tiles with images of oranges, bougainvillea, water waves, and mountainous landscapes. Two large columns in bold colors serve as the entrance, creating a vibrant and decorative gateway. Once complete, travel time from Glendora to Pasadena will be just 22 minutes and to Los Angeles Union Station in 51 minutes.
San Dimas station, located near San Dimas Avenue and Arrow Highway, embraces the theme “Sense of Place.” It features sculptures resembling walking sticks, highlighting the city’s parks, trails, and rich natural surroundings. Commuting from San Dimas to Pasadena will take 27 minutes, while a trip to Los Angeles Union Station will be 56 minutes.
La Verne station, situated at the intersection of North Arrow Highway and East E Street, incorporates orange trees and water motifs in its design, presenting a skyline view reminiscent of multiple variations of the Eiffel Tower. This station will take 31 minutes to reach Pasadena and 60 minutes to Los Angeles Union Station.
Pomona station, set to be the largest in terms of tracks, will feature inspirational quotes and life advice collected from the public, embedded in the station’s steps, creating a “family atmosphere.” After completion, the project will include 4 to 5 tracks running throughout the city, with a travel time of 33 minutes to Pasadena and 62 minutes to Los Angeles Union Station.
Claremont station, located at the intersection of East Indian Hill and West College Avenue, will nearly align with the existing train station. Its prominent design includes a 3D pillar showcasing the word “Claremont” in various languages, complemented by custom ceramic tiles representing fields such as science, medicine, arts, music, social sciences, education, religion, history, and creative literature. Lastly, Montclair station, the project’s concluding stop, will offer 1,600 parking spaces.
Once complete, the Gold Line extension will facilitate over 200 light rail trips daily, accommodating between 400 to 600 passengers per trip.
