The Metro D Line Subway Extension Opens May 8, 2026
Faster than traffic. Smarter than parking. The future of Wilshire Blvd runs underground.
Three New Stations, More Opportunities
New stations at La Brea, Fairfax, and La Cienega connect Mid-Wilshire and the Miracle Mile to Koreatown and Downtown LA.
Connect to the Arts, Culture, and Business Centers
New stations at La Brea, Fairfax, and La Cienega connect the cultural energy of Mid-Wilshire with Koreatown, Downtown LA and beyond.
Wilshire/La Brea Station
Nearby:
- El Rey Theatre
- SAG-AFTRA
Wilshire/Fairfax
Nearby:
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art
- The Grove
- The Original Farmer’s Market
- La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
- Petersen Automotive Museum
- Craft Contemporary
- Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
- Johnie’s Coffee Shop
Wilshire/La Cienega
Nearby:
- Beverly Center
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- West Hollywood border
FAQ
What is Section 1 of the D Line Extension?
Section 1 extends the existing D Line subway west from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/La Cienega. It adds three new underground stations along Wilshire Boulevard and closes a major transit gap between Downtown Los Angeles and the Mid-Wilshire area.
This is the first phase of the full Downtown-to-West LA subway connection.
When does Section 1 open?
Section 1 will open on 05/08/2026, ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Opening timing is subject to final safety testing and certification.
What stations are included in Section 1?
- Wilshire/La Brea
- Wilshire/Fairfax
- Wilshire/La Cienega
These stations serve Koreatown, Miracle Mile, Hancock Park, Carthay Circle, the Fairfax District, and the gateway to Beverly Hills.
How long will it take to travel from Downtown LA to the new stations?
Estimated travel times from Union Station:
- Wilshire/La Brea: ~14 minutes
- Wilshire/Fairfax: ~17 minutes
- Wilshire/La Cienega: ~21 minutes
Final travel times will be confirmed after pre-revenue testing.
Why is Section 1 important?
Wilshire Boulevard is one of the busiest corridors in the region. Section 1:
- Reduces travel time along Wilshire
- Provides a traffic-free alternative to driving
- Improves air quality
- Expands access to jobs, schools, and cultural destinations
- Strengthens mobility ahead of global events
It is the 10th completed project under Metro’s Twenty-eight by ’28 initiative.
What destinations does Section 1 connect?
Section 1 provides direct access to:
- Museum Row (LACMA, Academy Museum, Petersen Automotive Museum, La Brea Tar Pits)
- The Original Farmers Market and The Grove
- Marciano Art Foundation
- Ebell Theater
- Restaurant Row
- Beverly Center
- Local businesses and residential neighborhoods
It also connects seamlessly to the broader Metro system at 7th St/Metro Center and Union Station.
Will fares change?
No. Standard Metro fares apply.
Are the new stations accessible?
Yes. All new stations are fully ADA accessible and include elevators, escalators, clear wayfinding, and modern fare gates.
Will the stations include public art?
Yes. Each station includes commissioned artwork through Metro Art, reflecting the history and character of the surrounding neighborhoods. Artists were selected through an open, competitive process.
How did Metro support businesses during construction?
Metro implemented several mitigation programs, including:
- Business Interruption Fund (BIF): 465 grants awarded to 122 small businesses in the Section 1 area totaling more than $14 million.
- Eat Shop Play Program: A marketing program supporting 52 local businesses.
Metro remains committed to helping small businesses thrive as service begins.
What safety measures will be in place?
Section 1 stations include:
- 24/7 security coverage
- Transit Security Officers and contract security
- Train-riding security teams
- Security cameras throughout stations
- Taller fare gates with motion sensors and improved anti-evasion technology
Metro’s Department of Public Safety prioritizes safety, compassion, and harm prevention.
Future D Line Phases: Sections 2 and 3
What is Section 2 of the D Line Extension?
Section 2 continues the subway west from Wilshire/La Cienega and includes two stations:
- Beverly Drive (Beverly Hills)
- Century City
It is expected to open in Spring 2027.
What areas will Section 2 serve?
Section 2 will serve:
- Beverly Hills Golden Triangle
- Century City business district
- Century City Mall
- One of the region’s largest employment centers
This phase significantly strengthens access to jobs on the Westside.
What is Section 3 of the D Line Extension?
Section 3 completes the extension to West LA and includes two stations:
- Westwood/UCLA
- Westwood/VA Hospital
It is expected to open in Fall 2027, ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Why is Section 3 important?
Section 3 connects directly to:
- UCLA
- The future 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games athlete village
- Westwood Village
- West Los Angeles VA Medical Center
When Section 3 opens, riders will be able to travel from Downtown LA to West LA in approximately 25 minutes.
How will the full extension change travel in Los Angeles?
When all three sections are complete:
- Seven new underground stations will span nine miles
- Downtown and West LA will be connected by high-capacity rail
- Tens of thousands of new riders are expected to join the Metro system
- Congestion along Wilshire, the 10, and the 405 can be reduced
- The corridor becomes a continuous cultural, economic, and educational connection
The full extension leaves a lasting mobility legacy beyond the World Cup and Olympic Games.