The following interview excerpts appeared in Streetsblog Los Angeles on March 3, 2026. To listen to the full interview or read the transcript, click here.

SGV Connect 146: What’s Next for the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority

By Damien Newton

March 3, 2026

[excerpt]:

Newton:
Turning to the next extension, from Pomona to Claremont — bids came in high under the design-build model. Why change approaches?

Balian:
Design-build has served us well for two decades, but contractors are increasingly risk-averse, especially given tariffs and market uncertainty. That risk translated into higher bids. We’ve pivoted to a Construction Manager at Risk model. Parsons will complete the design to 100 percent over the next 18 months. A contractor will then review constructability and pricing, allowing us to move toward construction in early 2028 with greater cost certainty.

Newton:
Rail projects aren’t just about transportation. We’ve seen improved bus coordination and major transit-oriented development along the corridor. You recently released a report on the economic benefits of the Claremont extension.

Balian:
Yes. Development around stations in Pasadena, Monrovia, Azusa, and beyond has been significant. Cities are planning housing and mixed-use projects near stations, often years in advance. Beyond development, construction has created thousands of jobs. During operations, we project nearly $500 million in economic output within the first three years. The line also uniquely connects numerous colleges — from Pasadena City College to Azusa Pacific and the Claremont Colleges — making it an important educational corridor.

…

Balian:
Awarding the design contract is our immediate priority. We expect to select a CMAR contractor this summer and begin construction in January 2028. It’s a billion-dollar project with four bridges and significant regional impact. Cities want this line, and we’re eager to deliver it.

To listen to the full interview or read the transcript, click here.