Lawndale, Calif. — Presence News was in Lawndale Tuesday night as residents, advocates, and officials packed a public meeting on Metro’s proposed C Line Extension to Torrance, a rail project that includes a potential alignment along Hawthorne Boulevard.
Members of the South Bay Environmental Justice Alliance joined Lawndale City Council representatives to hear public concerns about Metro’s planning alternatives for the project, including a Hawthorne Boulevard route and a hybrid alignment using portions of an existing railroad right-of-way. Supporters and opponents filled the hall, many wearing “No ROW” and “Yes Hawthorne Blvd.” shirts. Several participants arrived together by bus from nearby neighborhoods to attend the hearing.
Project Overview
Metro has studied the C Line Extension to Torrance for several years. Planning documents outline multiple proposed alignments intended to serve high-ridership areas while addressing concerns about noise, safety, and emergency access. Metro has presented these alternatives through its official project updates and community outreach meetings.
Metro has not yet formally selected a final preferred alignment. The Metro Board will consider and vote on an alignment option at an upcoming board meeting later this month, after completing the public comment process.
Public Comment Draws Large Turnout
According to meeting organizers, approximately 270 people attended in person, with more than 100 joining by phone to provide public comment. Speakers were given 30 seconds each, and testimony continued for more than two hours.
Supporters said the project would provide essential transit access, reduce dependence on cars, and improve mobility in South Bay communities. Several speakers highlighted improved access to jobs, educational institutions, and Los Angeles International Airport through expanded public transportation.
Opponents cited concerns about noise, proximity of rail infrastructure to homes, traffic disruption, and potential environmental and health impacts. Several residents said proposed alignments would pass near their neighborhoods, raising fears of long-term community disruption.
A representative from the Lawndale City Council said existing construction activity in the city was already affecting residents through noise and disruption, and that additional rail construction could further strain the community.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, who sits on the Metro Board, said she had received letters from constituents concerned about project impacts and acknowledged that some neighborhoods fear negative effects from the proposed alignments.
Project Cost and Next Steps
Metro has not yet finalized a project cost estimate, and planning documents show cost projections varying depending on the alignment selected. Final environmental review and a construction timeline are expected to be released following the Metro Board’s alignment decision.
Editor’s Disclaimer
This report is based on Presence News’ on-site coverage of a public meeting held in Lawndale, California. Statements and viewpoints in this article reflect comments made by speakers during the meeting and do not necessarily represent the views of Presence News.
