News Summary
LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn is taking monthly rides on the Metro system to better understand public transportation issues. This initiative responds to criticism regarding her previous limited use of the service. Hahn’s monthly rides aim to inform policy changes that address the needs of vulnerable riders, especially the homeless community, while advocating for safety measures and federal funding to support the Metro infrastructure ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.
Los Angeles – LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn is making headlines by committing to ride the Metro system monthly from San Pedro to downtown Los Angeles in a bid to enhance her understanding of public transportation issues. This initiative comes in response to criticism from some who label her a “fake Metro rider” due to her limited usage of the service in the past. Her recent experiences on the transit system have already sparked new policy initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of vulnerable riders, particularly the homeless community, and raising awareness about immigration rights among users.
In her former role as Chair of the Metro Board—an influential position that rotates yearly among county supervisors, city representatives, and the mayor of Los Angeles—Hahn has prioritized enhancing transit service protocols amid frustrating station closures and service interruptions. She emphasizes that shutting down services should be viewed as a last-resort measure and that the Metro system must adapt to better facilitate access to essential services, such as protests. During recent demonstrations, Hahn argued for transportation solutions that would help transport demonstrators rather than disrupt their movements.
The Metro system has also recently begun the second phase of its weapons detection program, starting in April with the installation of detection pillars at two stations. Hahn is advocating for the expansion of this safety initiative across the entire network, underscoring the need for strong safety measures, particularly in light of the upcoming Olympic Games in 2028. Ensuring the security of riders is paramount, especially with plans in motion for large crowds expected during the event.
To support the anticipated surge in transportation demand during the Olympics, Metro has formally requested $3.2 billion in federal funding. This funding aims to enhance the transportation infrastructure, which includes leasing around 3,000 buses and hiring additional drivers to accommodate both event attendees and local commuters effectively. Hahn has noted that with the recent appointment of President Trump leading the Olympic Games Task Force, there is potential for increased federal resources that could benefit Los Angeles during this global event.
In addition to the Olympics, Hahn expressed concerns regarding the federal government’s immigration enforcement actions, characterizing them as shocking and inappropriate. She believes these actions pose challenges for immigrant communities that use the Metro system. As part of her ongoing commitment to elevating these communities, she has introduced a Know-Your-Rights campaign emphasizing the rights of Metro users concerning immigration enforcement.
Hahn’s monthly rides will not only give her firsthand insight into the service’s daily operations but are also part of her broader strategy to develop policies that address the needs of Metro’s diverse ridership. Her proactive approach stems from a fundamental belief that personal experience with the public transit system can inform better decision-making for all L.A. County residents. As the transit landscape continues to evolve, her focus remains on balancing safety, accessibility, and broad community support.
In summary, Janice Hahn is committed to improving Metro services while advocating for essential policy changes. Her experiences as a regular rider, combined with her role in city governance, promise to drive future strategies aimed at making the Metro system more effective and inclusive for all users.
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