‘Why I Ride‘ is a series where Metro employees share their transit routines – read more about the concept here.

Name: Zipporah Yamamoto
Position: Senior Public Arts Officer, Creative Services

How often do you take transit?

Almost every day. I rarely drive unless I expect a late day at work.

If so, what lines/routes?

I either take the LADOT Commuter Express 438 to the Metro Red or Purple Lines.

Are you car-free? If so, why? If not, why not?

My husband and I both drive cars because the places we need to go are not accessible by public transportation, or because public transportation just takes too long to get to the places we need to go. I would love to see us become a one car family in the future if public transit grows to become a reliable option for our daily needs.

Do you use any other alternative transportation (bicycle, rideshare, etc)?

I carpool with my husband on days when our schedules line up. He teaches at a community college so his schedule changes with the semesters. I enjoy carpooling because it gives us a chance to catch up and spend time with one another. Sometimes we take advantage of carpooling and go out to dinner or run errands together on our way home.

Do you think being a regular Metro rider is important to your job?

I do. Riding Metro on a daily basis puts me in touch with the overall customer experience and gives me a deeper understanding of the unique context in which our art program exists.

Why do you love transit?

I love people watching, the high energy context of big city transit, and the time and space to reflect and unwind at the end of the day before I get home so I can be more present with my family when I arrive at my home.