Los Angeles County, Metro leaders promote free rides for upcoming Clean Air Day

Los Angeles County legislators and LA Metro leaders readied for the start of California Clean Air Day and Southern California Transit Month on Thursday with a Metro ride-along meant to highlight the role of public transit in cutting pollution and improving public health.

County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, LA Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins, and representatives from Move LA and the Coalition for Clean Air gathered at the Hall of Administration before walking to Civic Center/Grand Park Station and riding one stop to Union Station ahead of a Metro board meeting.

The symbolic trip was meant to underscore the convenience of car-free travel while calling attention to federal rollbacks that officials said threaten decades of air quality progress, officials said.

The event also previewed this year’s Clean Air Day, set for Oct. 1, when LA Metro, Metrolink and other agencies will offer free rides to encourage use. Leaders urged Angelenos to take the Clean Air Day Pledge and commit to at least one action to support cleaner air.

Horvath emphasized the importance of everyday choices. “Every time we choose the bus or train over sitting in traffic, we’re choosing to protect our lungs, our climate, and our children’s future,” she said. “Clean Air Day is more than a pledge, it’s a commitment to ourselves and to each other that we will act boldly for the air we all breathe.”

Wiggins said Metro is focused on making transit “cleaner, safer and more comfortable” for riders, adding that residents can improve both air quality and health by choosing Metro not just on Clean Air Day but throughout the year.

Eli Lipmen, executive director of Move LA, framed transit as a daily necessity and a lifestyle benefit, noting that nearly one million people ride each day to work, school, medical appointments, or family visits.

Horvath’s office says L.A. County is continuing to pursue goals of expanding zero-emission transportation, preserving clean air standards, and ensuring reliable transit access for all communities.