First/Last Mile

Metro has a plan to make it easier to get around LA. It includes making every trip better with safe and accessible first/last mile connections.

What is the first/last mile connection?

The first and last part of the journey that riders walk, bike or roll to and from their nearest station or bus stop is called the “first/last mile connection.” These connections provide pathways to transit for people of all ages and abilities, which is why we’re committed to improving the safety of public streets and sidewalks around Metro transit areas.

First/last mile connections also have health and environmental benefits. Walking, biking and rolling promote a healthy, active lifestyle, and reduce the need for vehicle trips by offering an attractive alternative.

What is the First/Last Mile Strategic Plan?

In 2016, the Metro Board of Directors passed a motion to integrate first/last mile improvements as part of all new rail and Bus Rapid Transit projects. This planning breaks new ground for Metro by creating a clear focus on active transportation as an integral part of the rider experience, working directly with local agencies to improve streets, and establishing an equity-centered process that deeply engages community groups.

The Metro First/Last Mile Strategic Plan helps us identify barriers and then plan and implement improvements for the first/last mile of a person’s transit journey. In 2021, we adopted First/Last Mile Guidelines to further integrate first/last mile planning into Metro’s overall transit project delivery.

To learn more about Metro first/last mile connections, please see this fact sheet, review of case study sites and additional documents.

What is Metro’s approach to first/last mile planning?

Metro partners with local communities and stakeholders to develop a set of community-supported improvements along the key pathways to stations and bus stops. We use a flexible, data driven and community-oriented approach to prepare plans that respond to the unique conditions of each station area and strengthen connections to nearby destinations, transit hubs and streets.

Examples of first/last mile improvements related to street and sidewalk infrastructure include:

Crosswalks, bulb-outs, street trees and landscaping
Signal timing for pedestrians and cyclists
Bike lanes, bike parking and bike share stations
Wayfinding signage to key destinations and transit connections
Real-time signage or transit information kiosks

How can I participate in first/last mile planning?

Here are two ways to participate:

Join a walk audit around a station area of interest. This is a site visit where community stakeholders and Metro representatives walk a station area to note opportunities, barriers and behaviors they observe. This information is compiled and analyzed to inform first/last mile plans.
Attend community events. These events outline planning efforts and provide an opportunity to submit feedback to Metro on the process and planned improvements.

Additional Resources

Fact Sheet

Contact Us

Jacob Lieb
Senior Director
213.922.4132

LiebJ@metro.net

Firstlastmile@metro.net

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