Meeting_Body
OPERATIONS, SAFETY, AND CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE COMMITTEE
SEPTEMBER 18, 2025
Subject
SUBJECT: STATION ACTIVATION UPDATE
Action
ACTION: ORAL REPORT
Heading
RECOMMENDATION
Title
RECEIVE an oral report that provides an update on Metro's efforts to launch a comprehensive Station Activation Program.
Issue
ISSUE
Station activation is vital to making stations feel safe, welcoming, and connected to the communities Metro serves, especially as Metro works to expand ridership. When stations appear empty or disconnected, customers can perceive them as unsafe spaces, making activation efforts a critical part of Metro's overall customer experience.
At its February 2025 meeting, the Board approved Motion 29 by Directors Yaroslavsky, Bass, Dupont-Walker, Sandoval and Mitchell. (Attachment A) In response to the Motion, staff is providing a status update on the comprehensive approach to station activation that will guide planning for the upcoming rail openings and future station improvements. The oral report covers a range of efforts, including the pilot program to enliven stations through vending, markets, and community events; early deployment planning for the D (Purple) Line Extension stations; and strategies for leveraging TAP cards to deepen connections with nearby entertainment and cultural venues. It also outlines a framework for ongoing performance monitoring and regular updates to the Board, highlighting lessons learned from existing activation efforts and the path forward for making stations welcoming, vibrant spaces for all riders.
Public safety research shows that open, active environments with high visibility increase perceptions of safety and foster natural surveillance. Activities such as cafes, kiosks, and markets help ensure that public spaces remain vibrant and well-used. Metro's care-based approach to station activation responds directly to the needs of transit riders and nearby communities, creating safer, more welcoming spaces while su...
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