Greater Los Angeles is preparing for a wave of transportation improvements, with several major rail projects set to expand connections between communities across the region. Among them is the Southeast Gateway Line, a planned 14.5-mile light rail route that will connect Southeast L.A. County with the city of L.A.
The project would feature nine stations, but Cerritos could potentially add a 10th stop, expanding the line’s reach into the city.
Every station planned along the Southeast Gateway Line
The route will connect with existing Metro services while providing new rail connections across Southeast L.A. County. These are the nine planned stations, from north to south:
- 📍 Slauson/A Line: Located in South Los Angeles, this station will connect with Metro’s A Line.
- 🚉 Pacific/Randolph: Serving the Vernon and Maywood area.
- 🏙️ Florence/Salt Lake: Located near Florence Avenue and Salt Lake Avenue.
- 🚆 Firestone: Providing rail access to the South Gate area.
- 🏘️ Gardendale: Serving the Gardendale neighborhood.
- 🔗 I-105/C Line: A connection point with Metro’s existing C Line.
- 🌆 Paramount/Rosecrans: Serving the Paramount area.
- 🌳 Bellflower: Providing access to Bellflower and surrounding communities.
- 🏁 Pioneer: The southern terminus of the line, located in Artesia.
The project will also include a connection to the existing C Line, expanding access to Metro’s wider rail network. Estimated completion is set for 2035.
What about Cerritos additional station?
A feasibility study commissioned by the city in 2025 evaluated three potential locations: Studebaker Road, Rosewood Park, and Gridley Road at 183rd Street. The latter emerged as the preferred option because of its proximity to shopping destinations, existing bus services, and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
Within a half-mile radius, the study identified approximately 5,180 residents, 5,517 jobs, and 1,586 housing units. Potential redevelopment around Los Cerritos Center could bring additional residential and commercial activity to the area.
According to Los Cerritos Community News, the Cerritos City Council is scheduled to consider the completed feasibility study on November 9. The proposed Cerritos stop is estimated to cost between $150 million and $200 million to construct. An additional $800,000 would be needed for environmental review.
Could the line eventually reach O.C.?
Cerritos is also exploring the possibility of a future extension into Orange County. Preliminary discussions have involved Metro, the Orange County Transportation Authority, and the Southern California Association of Governments.
However, no extension has been approved or funded at this stage. The November 9 City Council meeting will also consider formally identifying Gridley Road and 183rd Street as the preferred station location, pursuing funding for environmental review, and continuing discussions about a potential regional extension.
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