[3] At the El Monte end of the line, a $945,000 terminal would be built, then described as the world’s first bus rapid transit station.

The station was described as having a "Space Age" design, stemming from its unique circular shape billed as providing easy access for buses from both directions.

In an effort to relieve overcrowding, Metro opened six new bus bays in the parking lot just west of the main station in 2006.

The new higher frequency service would be funded by converting both corridors into high occupancy toll (HOT) lanes, to be branded as the Metro ExpressLanes.

[4] An art installation, titled "El Monte Legion Stadium Nocturne," debuted at the station in 2014.

The work, by Vincent Ramos, commemorates local music and sports figures associated with Legion Stadium, an indoor arena that was demolished in 1974.

With 22,000 passengers and 1,200 bus departures daily the station was doubled in size in a renovation which was completed in October 2012.

As of December 15, 2024[update], the following services are available:[7] J Line buses run 24 hours a day between El Monte Station, Downtown Los Angeles, and the Harbor Gateway Transit Center, as route 910.