In response to the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County, the Metro Board of Directors has approved measures to support displaced residents and employees affected by the disaster. The board voted unanimously on Thursday to expand its LIFE reduced-fare program and explore additional ways Metro can contribute to recovery efforts. These initiatives aim to provide essential transportation services and relief for those rebuilding their lives.
Key Measures Approved by Metro
Expanded LIFE Reduced-Fare Program
The LIFE (Low-Income Fare is Easy) reduced-fare program will now include residents displaced by the wildfires for at least six months. Under the expanded program:
- Eligible participants will receive 20 free rides per month or a discounted transit pass valid on participating transit agencies.
- Outreach efforts will ensure displaced residents and Metro employees are informed about how to enroll.
L.A. County Supervisor and Metro Board Chair Janice Hahn emphasized the importance of easing transportation costs for fire survivors:
“As residents who lost their homes try to rebuild their lives over the next few months, the last thing they should have to worry about is whether they can afford to take the train or bus,” Hahn said.
Support for Metro Employees
The board also authorized Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins and staff to:
- Identify financial assistance for Metro employees who lost their homes or were displaced.
- At least 19 employees lost their homes.
- Another 46 employees were displaced due to evacuation orders or related challenges.
Leveraging Metro’s Resources for Recovery Efforts
Metro will explore ways to use its fleet, services, expertise, and properties to aid recovery efforts, including:
- Providing transportation to Disaster Recovery Centers where residents can access assistance.
- Offering logistical support for recovery operations.
Supervisor Kathryn Barger highlighted the critical role Metro can play in helping displaced residents:
“Our Metro system may play a crucial role as an option for residents to get to work and to our Disaster Recovery Centers to access support,” Barger said.
The Role of Metro in Fire Recovery
Transportation Relief for Fire Survivors
Thousands of residents affected by the wildfires are now without reliable transportation. By expanding the reduced-fare program, Metro ensures that displaced individuals can access essential services, work, and recovery resources without additional financial burden.
Direct Support for Employees
The motion’s focus on Metro employees recognizes the toll the wildfires have taken on the agency’s workforce. Providing financial assistance and outreach will help affected employees recover and return to stability.
Community-Centered Recovery
Metro’s initiatives align with a larger effort to leverage public resources for community recovery. This includes offering discounted transportation, logistical aid, and proactive outreach to residents in need.
Collaboration Among Leaders
The motion was co-authored by:
- Supervisor Kathryn Barger
- Supervisor Lindsey Horvath
- L.A. Mayor Karen Bass
- Supervisor Hilda Solis
- Whittier Councilman Fernando Dutra
Their collective effort highlights a unified commitment to supporting fire survivors and ensuring Metro resources are maximized for recovery efforts.
The Metro Board of Directors’ decision to expand the LIFE reduced-fare program and explore other recovery measures underscores the agency’s commitment to helping wildfire survivors and employees rebuild their lives. By providing free or discounted transportation, financial assistance, and recovery resources, Metro is playing a vital role in easing the burden on displaced residents and fostering community resilience.
As Los Angeles continues its recovery efforts, initiatives like these demonstrate how public agencies can make a meaningful difference during times of crisis.
