The following article appeared on the Azusa Pacific University website on April 28, 2016.

Getting Around Town on the Metro Gold Line – Azusa Pacific University

By Kayla Johnston ’16

April 28, 2016

The city of Azusa lies near the border of three counties, making it close in proximity to some of Southern California’s most-loved locations. Offering an alternate mode of public transportation, the recently completed Metro Gold Line expansion allows riders to travel from the APU/Citrus College Station in Azusa to Pasadena with ease. From there, the Gold Line continues to Union Station in Downtown L.A., giving riders access to the best that Los Angeles has to offer.

Students at APU now have the ability to travel to and from campus, as well as visit local landmarks and hotspots with accessibility and affordability that hasn’t before been available. This addition to the city of Azusa provides a new community experience, especially for students without a car on campus.

“The Gold Line is bringing the city of Azusa closer to those in the Pasadena and Los Angeles areas,” said Ginny Dadaian, director of community relations at Azusa Pacific University. “With the Gold Line in operation, potential students may have the opportunity to come to APU because they can commute more easily. It is an exciting time for Azusa!”

For students commuting to a job or internship in Los Angeles, taking the Metro cuts down on traffic time, emissions, and wear and tear. “Driving my SUV back and forth to my internship in L.A. several times a week ended up costing me more money in gas than what I was making on the job,” said Kelsie Roche ’16. “I would sit in traffic for at least three hours each day, and the Metro gets me there in half the time.”

Below are several local sites that are accessible by Metro and will satisfy an appetite for adventure, all while keeping extra gas money in your pocket. (Metro fares range from a one-way cost of $1.75 to a monthly student pass of only $43).

Los Angeles City Hall An historic landmark and reminder of our county’s rich history, Los Angeles City Hall is a cultural experience that also makes for an incredible photo-op. Nearly 500 feet tall, the view of the city from the building’s highest point is breathtaking. Students can walk inside, show photo identification, and make the ascent free of charge.

LAX Airport Access Finding a ride to the airport can be an added hassle when arranging travel. With the Gold Line, students don’t have to rely on a friend to chauffeur or pay outrageous overnight airport parking fees. Airport access is simple: take the Gold Line to Union Station and catch the LAX FlyAway bus to the airport. Just pack your bags and enjoy the ride!

Colorado Boulevard and Old Pasadena This popular Pasadena boulevard is home to dozens of shops and restaurants. From designer boutiques to local thrift shops and everything in between, walking up and down Colorado Boulevard and its side streets is a favorite among APU students. Stop by Intelligentsia for a great cup of coffee in an inviting atmosphere. Or step inside Crossroads Trading Company to find discount designer clothing.

Rose Bowl Whether tailgating or hunting for the perfect vintage find, the Rose Bowl in Pasadena is a great spot for unique events. Home to UCLA’s football team and a monthly flea market, not to mention the New Year’s Rose Bowl Game, this local landmark and icon for sports fans is less than an hour from campus.

Old Town Monrovia Home to a beautiful public library and plenty of locally-owned shops, Myrtle Avenue is the heart of Old Town Monrovia. Take the Metro just a couple stops west to find a homey, small-town feel right in the middle of a bustling city. Visit on a Friday to attend the weekly Friday Night Festival, held on Myrtle Ave. from 5:30-9 p.m.