The LADOT has expanded service on downtown DASH routes, and plans more expansion in the near future. (photo courtesy of LADOT)

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation Transit has launched service improvements to DASH routes D and E in downtown Los Angeles as the next step in the phased implementation of the LADOT New Service Plan.

The Los Angeles City Council adopted the LADOT New Service Plan in 2018, identifying and prioritizing service enhancements, new Community DASH routes and the LAnow service, an on demand shared-ride service.

In 2019, LADOT Transit launched its biggest service expansion since its inception, including increased weekend service on all existing DASH routes, evening service on DASH downtown routes, new Commuter Express service and LAnow. LADOT also continues to receive and deploy new electric buses, with the goal of operating a 100% electric fleet by 2028.

“Easy, affordable, and safe transportation options for Angelenos are key to our region’s long-term recovery including investments in public transit,” LADOT General Manager Seleta Reynolds said. “These changes to DASH Routes D and E are just the start of our planned transit service expansion and will provide better and faster service to current and future riders.”

The Downtown D route will now run along Broadway south of Olympic Boulevard and end at South Grand Avenue and West Washington Boulevard. It will continue serving the Los Angeles Trade Technical College and the Grand/LATTC Metro Blue Line subway station.

The Downtown E route will extend on Seventh Street to South Alvarado Street and the LA Metro Westlake/MacArthur Park Red Line subway station. The current route deviation on Sixth Street will be eliminated.

Fare-free boarding, adopted in spring 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, remains on all DASH routes.

“A few months back, I introduced a motion requesting LADOT to help us deploy additional DASH E buses into our district, and I am very excited to share that the city is providing expanded DASH E service from Downtown L.A. into MacArthur Park,” said Councilman Gil Cedillo, 1st District. “Our senior citizens, students and families deserve improved services to enhance their mobility and this is one step towards the right direction to help meet our transit needs in our communities that rely heavily on these services. It is critical that our communities have access to clean, reliable, and affordable transportation.”

“The expansion of DASH routes in Downtown L.A. comes at an opportune time as the City begins its reopening efforts,” added Councilman Kevin de León, 14th District. “Expanded routes will mean better service for more public transit users and keeps L.A. transit goals moving in the right direction.”

The next service expansion is scheduled for July 31, when a new DASH route will begin service in Sylmar. Continued service expansion will continue through 2024 and will introduce five new DASH routes, as well as improved service on 22 existing DASH routes. For information, visit ladottransit.com/wegotogetherla.