LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass today announced that she has appointed Los Angeles City Councilmember Imelda Padilla to the Los Angeles Metro Board of Directors. Councilmember Padilla will play a leadership role in the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project, a much-needed expansion of the rail system into the San Fernando Valley to connect communities and improve access to essential destinations. Councilmember Padilla will be the first Latina from the East Valley to serve on the Metro Board representing the City of Los Angeles.
“My focus has always been to make Metro a world-class public transit system where we offer high-quality transportation to the Angelenos who rely on the system while embracing visitors from around the world,” said Mayor Bass. “I know Councilmember Padilla shares my vision and will be a champion for our shared agenda. Together, we will expand Metro access throughout the Valley to create thriving and well-connected neighborhoods.”
"I want to thank Mayor Karen Bass for this appointment and for recognizing the importance of ensuring the San Fernando Valley has a strong advocate on the Metro Board," said Councilmember Imelda Padilla. "The Valley is at the heart of Metro’s expansion, with projects that will redefine mobility for generations. Public transit should be a safe, reliable, and dignified option for every Angeleno—whether they’re commuting to work, running errands, or exploring our city. But transportation is about more than just mobility—it’s about equity, economic opportunity, and quality of life for every generation. I am honored to serve on the Metro Board and look forward to working with my colleagues to build a world-class, equitable transit system that strengthens our communities, connects our region, and improves daily life for everyone who depends on public transit."
Councilmember Padilla represents the Northeast San Fernando Valley, including the neighborhoods of Arleta, Lake Balboa, North Hollywood, North Hills, Panorama City, Van Nuys and Sun Valley. Her priorities include expanding fare assistance programs to keep transit affordable, improving service reliability, and enhancing safety. The San Fernando Valley is set to benefit from several major Metro initiatives, including: the transformative East San Fernando Valley Light Rail, a north-south rail line along Van Nuys Blvd. that will bring nearly 7 miles with 11 stations of long-overdue rail service to the Valley; the Sepulveda Transit Corridor, a rail project that will connect the San Fernando Valley to the Westside; and improvements to bus service, including the G Line and additional bus priority lanes.