UCLA Extension this month joined dozens of organizations and businesses from around Los Angeles in pledging to make public transit a priority in the second half of 2023.

As part of the Central City Association of Los Angeles’ (CCA) #GoMetroPledge campaign, UCLA Extension will encourage faculty, staff and students to take 24 Metro trips before the start of 2024 in an effort to support the continued growth of public transportation throughout the city, and especially downtown.

The pledge comes weeks after UCLA announced its expansion into downtown LA with the acquisition of the iconic Trust Building in the city’s historic core. UCLA Extension will be the primary tenant of the new property, which will serve as a hub for students from the north, south and east of Los Angeles.

As UCLA Extension expands its downtown footprint, its support for the #GoMetroPledge represents the institution’s sustained commitment to connecting with Angelenos from all walks of life through education, said Yuritzy Peraza, director of government and community relations at UCLA Extension.

“UCLA Extension is committed to building inclusive communities across Los Angeles and beyond,” Peraza said. “Support for public transportation through the #GoMetroPledge is a big part of that, not only because it will help create a healthier environment for all Angelenos but also because it aims to ensure that the whole city has access to everything downtown has to offer.”

The CCA’s campaign supports the newly launched Metro Regional Connector service, which the advocacy group said will improve rail connections throughout the region while boosting visitation and economic activity in downtown LA. The Regional Connector’s 1.9 miles of new track make it possible for light rail trains to travel between Union Station and the busy 7th Street/Metro Center Station downtown without the need for transfers.

“Downtown already plays an outsized role in the region’s economy, so safe and efficient public transportation to the city’s center is critical,” said CCA President and CEO Nella McOsker.

In coming months, UCLA Extension will join other pledge-makers in promoting CCA’s social media campaign. Tag us (@uclaextension on Twitter, Instagram and Threads), and use the #GoMetroPledge hashtag to show your participation and support. See the CCA website for more information on how you can participate. And check out UCLA Extension’s wide list of available courses in sustainability and environmental studies to learn more about how you can make Los Angeles a greener place to live.