Since launching more than 30 years ago, unique station designs and artwork have been hallmarks of LA.'s ever-expanding rail network. The ceiling of Hollywood/Vine Station is covered in old film reels, while Mariachi Plaza Station in Boyle Heights features a colorful canopy that blends in seamlessly with its surroundings.
At the other end of the spectrum is Downtown's 7th Street/Metro Station, the busy heart of the rail system. Despite serving as a transfer point between the A, B, D, and E Lines (plus numerous bus lines on the surface above), the station was built with a utilitarian style that emphasizes function over form. But at long last, a glow up appears to be in the works.
In its Winter 2023 Transit Oriented Communities Newsletter, Metro announced that the Systemwide Design Group has kicked off an effort to upgrade 7th Street/Metro Center, with a focus on safety, security, usability and comfort. Updates will encompass the full station environment - including architecture and operations.
"Design features needing updates include floor and ceiling finishes, lighting, security equipment, and customer information/communication equipment," states the newsletter. "With the upcoming opening of the Regional Connector and the approaching LA 2028 Summer Olympic/Paralympic Games, this update is necessary to create a world-class transit experience at this important and busy transfer station. Starting in early 2023, the project will conduct a background review of the station and develop preliminary engineering designs for the upgrades."
What are you interested in seeing at 7th Street/Metro Center Station? Let us know in the comments below.
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