By Barry Lank and Monica Rodriguez for The Eastsider
Originally published Nov. 17, 2025

Frank McCourt, who owned the Dodgers between 2004 and 2012 (and still partly owns the stadium parking lots), proposed a sky gondola in 2018 that would carry up to 5,000 fans an hour between Union Station and Dodger Stadium. This sparked immediate opposition for the effect it might have on nearby neighborhoods, which are primarily in City Council Districts 1 and 14.

Last week, the City Council passed a resolution officially opposing the project. They’re also asking the County Metropolitan Transportation Authority to reverse an earlier approval, which had been thrown out after the state court forced an update to an environmental impact report.

Here’s how Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, who represents Boyle Heights, and other City Council members voted. (Councilmembers who voted ‘yes’ on the resolution officially oppose the project.)

YES: Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, District 1

“City Council passed a resolution I co-introduced, urging Metro to oppose reapproving the gondola—a private development scheme disguised as public transit. Our communities reject this project because it threatens their homes, parks, and quality of life. We refuse to sacrifice two acres of public open space to raise the value of a billionaire’s parking lots. I stand with Chinatown and Solano Canyon and will continue to prioritize the well-being of working-class Angelenos.”

YES: Councilmember Nithya Raman, District 4

Roman did not respond to a request to explain her vote.

YES: Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez, District 13

Soto-Martinez did not respond to a request to explain his vote.

YES: Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, District 14

“The project offers no meaningful transit benefits and would permanently alter El Pueblo, directly impacting the workers, immigrants, and families who have built and sustained this city for generations. We can’t put private convenience ahead of public good, especially when it threatens our historic landmarks and undermines the places, people, and traditions that give our neighborhoods their heart and character.”