30 minutes to downtown LA from Santa Clarita on the Metrolink — if infrastructure improvements are approved.
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Board of Directors voted unanimously on Thursday to approve studying the Metrolink Antelope Valley Line Infrastructure Improvement Strategic Plan introduced by 5th District Supervisor Michael Antonovich.
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“The goal is to reduce travel time to downtown Los Angeles down to 60 minutes for Antelope Valley residents and 30 minutes for Santa Clarita Valley residents,” said Antonovich, who also serves as the 2nd Vice-Chairman of MTA.
The 76.6 mile route currently takes two hours for end-to-end service between Lancaster and Los Angeles Union Station.
“In addition to faster commute times on this vital Metrolink line, this plan will improve traffic safety and reduce congestion along the 5 and 14 Freeways,” he added.
Antonovich’s plan directs MTA to work with Metrolink to develop the rail corridor for a higher standard of speed and safety that includes grade separations, at-grade crossings, track-straightening and other upgrades.
Currently, the Metrolink Antelope Valley Line has 63 at-grade pedestrian and vehicle crossings and long stretches of single and curved track that need to be improved.
The MTA CEO has been directed to return to the board no later than December 31, 2011, with this strategic plan.