The Regular City Council Meeting held on August 18, 2025, in San Fernando, California, featured significant discussions regarding the Metro project, particularly focusing on proposed station locations and community impact.
During the meeting, a representative from the local chamber of commerce addressed the council, expressing strong support for the city’s position paper on the Metro project. The chamber's subcommittees reviewed the paper and largely agreed with its contents, particularly the proposed mitigation measures such as bus shelters, safety improvements, and local transit enhancements.
However, the chamber expressed reservations about the initial options presented in the position paper. Instead, they proposed an alternative plan, referred to as the "Cesar Chavez option." This plan suggests extending the light rail line to terminate at Wolfskill, rather than at Van Nuys Boulevard or Sylmar. The representative argued that this location would alleviate potential issues associated with having a station in the town center while still providing access to the community.
The proposal includes the idea of naming the station after the Cesar Chavez Memorial, integrating local artwork and displays into the station's design. This would not only honor the memorial but also ensure that San Fernando is prominently featured on Metro maps, potentially increasing foot traffic and visibility for local businesses.
The representative emphasized that the proposed station would be conveniently located near major employers and city facilities, enhancing accessibility for residents and visitors alike. The chamber believes that this approach would benefit both the community and the Metro system, creating a win-win situation.
The meeting concluded with the council acknowledging the chamber's input and discussing next steps for further engagement with Metro representatives regarding the proposed changes.