On July 8, the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) welcomed a new era in San Diego transit with the official dedication of the $506 million Mission Valley East Trolley extension, also known as the Green Line. About 1,000 guests were on-hand at San Diego State University (SDSU) to celebrate the ribbon-cutting with key local, state, and federal dignitaries, including FTA Regional Administrator Leslie Rogers and former California Governor, San Diego Mayor, and U.S. Senator Pete Wilson.

The Green Line, which officially opened to the public on July 10, completes a nearly six-mile void in the MTS light rail network, and is expected to generate more than 11,000 new Trolley trips a day and should provide San Diegans with a competitive alternative to driving in the congested Interstate 8 corridor.

This remarkable transit project features four new, distinct trolley stations: an underground masterpiece complete with an award winning tunnel design at SDSU; Grantville Station with its unique architectural design featuring a set of 40-foot high elevated platforms and high-capacity elevators; Alvarado Hospital Medical Center Station; and 70^th Street Station. 

Each of these world-class Green Line stops will be serviced by MTS’ new Siemens- manufactured S70 light rail vehicles (LRVs). These “next generation” trolleys feature a streamlined exterior design; more efficient seating and interior design; and low-floor, platform level boarding and ramps.

Also in attendance at the July 8 milestone event were MTS Chairman Leon Williams; Congress members Susan Davis, Randy “Duke” Cunningham, and Bob Filner; San Diego County Supervisor Ron Roberts; SANDAG Chairman and Poway Mayor Mickey Cafagna; San Diego Mayor Dick Murphy; La Mesa Mayor Art Madrid; and SDSU President Stephen Weber.

The Friday festivities rolled-over into Saturday, July 9 as the public got a sneak peek at the Green Line at a free Community Ride Day. Approximately 22,500 packed the new vehicles and celebrated at each of the four new stations.

Project Manager:
Jim Linthicum
619-699-1970