History of SDSU Transit Center in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 6, 2026

The SDSU Transit Center is an underground San Diego Trolley station on the Green Line that also functions as a bus hub for San Diego State University (SDSU). Located between College Avenue and Campanile Drive, it uniquely features side platforms as the only underground station within the San Diego Trolley system. The bus plaza commenced operations in February 2005, and the trolley platforms opened on July 10, 2005, coinciding with the start of the Green Line service.

1989: Planning for Mission Valley East extension begins

In 1989, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit Development Board initiated planning for the 5.6-mile Mission Valley East extension to connect the Blue and Orange lines. University officials viewed the project as an opportunity to link the campus directly to downtown and the San Diego Stadium.

1999: Construction begins on Mission Valley East extension

In 1999, construction started on the Mission Valley East extension. SDSU secured an agreement to suspend work during the first three weeks of each semester and during finals to minimize disruption.

February 2005: Bus plaza opens

In February 2005, the bus plaza at SDSU Transit Center officially opened to the public.

July 10, 2005: Trolley platforms open; Green Line service begins

On July 10, 2005, the trolley platforms at SDSU Transit Center opened, marking the commencement of the Green Line service.

June 29, 2011: Station dedicated to Leon Williams

On June 29, 2011, the SDSU Transit Center station was dedicated to Leon Williams, an SDSU alumnus and public official instrumental in developing the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System.