Long Beach initiates $65 million Studebaker Road transit redesign

Long Beach is proceeding with the $65 million Studebaker Road Transformation Project, an initiative aimed at converting a car-centric corridor into a safer route for cyclists, pedestrians, and bus riders. The project includes wider protected bike lanes, greenways, raised bus stops, and fiber-optic infrastructure. This work is part of a broader municipal goal to connect 300 miles of bikeways by 2040.

The redesign has faced criticism from some motorists who argue the costs outweigh the benefits. One resident described the design intent as “malicious” and “immoral.” However, city officials maintain the project is a necessary response to rising traffic fatalities; Long Beach recorded 53 traffic deaths in 2025, and 36 deaths had occurred by mid-September 2026.

In related regional transit news, Southern California is observing Transit Month. Upcoming events include a Metro construction update for the G Line BRT improvements and a Metro board meeting to discuss bike-share expansion and open streets funding. Additionally, the Long Beach Bus Fest is scheduled to feature various transit agency vehicle displays.