METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

LA Metro receives proposal for aerial gondola linking station, ballpark

The aerial system would get fans from downtown to Dodger Stadium in about five minutes.

April 26, 2018
LA Metro receives proposal for aerial gondola linking station, ballpark

The aerial system would get fans from downtown to Dodger Stadium in about five minutes. Image: Aerial Rapid Transit Technologies LLC

2 min to read


The aerial system would get fans from downtown to Dodger Stadium in about five minutes. Image: Aerial Rapid Transit Technologies LLC

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) received an unsolicited proposal from Aerial Rapid Transit Technologies LLC (ARTT) on Wednesday that calls for building an aerial tram that would carry passengers between Dodger Stadium and Los Angeles Union Station.

Metro’s Unsolicited Proposal policy allows the private sector to submit ideas to improve Metro projects, programs and services. All proposals are subject to a Phase One analysis within 60 days of being received. Metro can then choose to advance proposals with merit to a more detailed Phase Two review.

Ad Loading...

Aerial transit is a proven technology providing scenic, efficient and clean transportation for millions of people in major cities, including New York and London, every year, according to ARRT officials. The proposed system could move 5,000-plus riders per hour in each direction, benefiting surrounding communities by reducing traffic on local roadways. The aerial system would get fans from downtown to Dodger Stadium in about five minutes.

In its concept proposal to Metro, ARTT proposes to provide funding for the innovative mobility partnership which will design and construct the aerial transit system. Total project costs are estimated to be approximately $125 million and ARTT plans to obtain private financing for construction.

“Dodger Stadium is one of the crown jewels of baseball and draws fans from across our region and the nation,” said Metro CEO Phillip A. Washington. “We take seriously any idea that provides a good alternative to driving, and we’re eager to consider this proposal from the private sector and advise our Metro Board accordingly.”

Image: Aerial Rapid Transit Technologies LLC

A gondola and other options for improving access to Dodger Stadium was part of an informational study in 1990 by the Los Angeles County Transportation Commission, which later merged with the RTD to form Metro. The idea was never pursued beyond the study.

“We set up the Unsolicited Proposal process to encourage outside-the-box thinking when it comes to mobility and building new transportation infrastructure,” said Metro Chief Innovation Officer Joshua Schank. “The Dodgers’ proposal is intriguing and we’re looking forward to reviewing the details.”

Ad Loading...

Metro has run the popular Dodger Stadium Express free bus service from Union Station since 2010. A second route between Harbor Gateway Transit Center in the South Bay and the ballpark was added in 2015. 

More Technology

A blue graphic with lap top and phone iterations of Smith System's Trainer Center.
Technologyby StaffFebruary 2, 2026

Smith System Launches Trainer Center to Scale Fleet Safety Programs

The new hub digitizes trainer-led safety programs, reducing admin work and giving fleets clearer insight into driver behavior.

Read More →
Technologyby StaffJanuary 29, 2026

Houston METRO Introduces RideMETRO Fare System

The upgraded system, which went live earlier this month, supports METRO’s METRONow vision to enhance the customer experience, improve service reliability, and strengthen long-term regional mobility.

Read More →
ManagementJanuary 22, 2026

Florida's JTA Unveils Mobility Visioning Plan 2050 at State of the Authority Event

CEO Nat Ford’s address offered a look at highlights from 2025, with a focus on the future and the innovative ways the JTA is shaping mobility in Northeast Florida.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
BusJanuary 22, 2026

Biz Briefs: BART, Uber Launch Partnership and More

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
TTC Bus
TechnologyJanuary 21, 2026

TTC Launches Pilot to Test New Bus Safety Technologies

The pilot also includes new in-vehicle displays designed to reduce blind spots and improve operator visibility.

Read More →
TechnologyJanuary 21, 2026

Florida's Tri-Rail Taps Siemens Mobility for Modern Locomotive Procurement

Expected to enter service in 2029, these locomotives support the agency’s commitment to offer reliable and efficient rail transportation across South Florida.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
SponsoredJanuary 19, 2026

3 New Ways Fleet Software Pays: ROI opportunities for modern fleet managers

Transit agencies depend on safe, reliable vehicles to deliver consistent service. This eBook examines how next-generation fleet software helps agencies move from reactive processes to proactive operations through automated maintenance, real-time safety insights, and integrated data. Learn how fleets are improving uptime, safety outcomes, and operational efficiency.

Read More →
CTA railcar in station.
Technologyby StaffJanuary 16, 2026

CTA Innovation Studio Expands Pilot to Reduce Smoke, Odors

The new filters include substantially more activated carbon than traditional HVAC filters, which is especially helpful in providing a better transit riding experience for vulnerable populations, particularly children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses, according to the CTA.

Read More →
Transit signal priority and public transit agencies.
New Mobilityby Alex RomanJanuary 16, 2026

How AI is Redefining Transit Operations and Signal Priority

In a recent episode of METROspectives, LYT CEO Timothy Menard discusses how artificial intelligence, cloud connectivity, and real-time data are transforming traffic management, boosting bus reliability, and enabling system-wide transit optimization across cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
RailJanuary 15, 2026

Biz Briefs: Alstom Supplying TTC Subways, SilverRide Lands California Contracts, and More

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →