LA Metro begins testing Expo Line extension to Santa Monica

Los Angeles County Metro Transportation Authority officials sent test trains to Westwood Boulevard earlier this month as part of the ongoing clearance testing of the Expo Line.

Metro spokesman Rick Jager said the line, which is set to open in 2016, will connect Downtown Los Angeles with Santa Monica.

The Expo Construction Authority is in charge of the construction of the Expo Line Phase 2 project, which will add 6 miles to the existing line, Jager said.

Fares will not increase because taxpayers voted in 2008 to increase sales tax and fund the project.

Jager said Metro officials are testing trains to make sure the tracks are clear and check their alignment. He added the trains have not yet encountered any problems.

Metro officials will continue running clearance tests during the next couple of weeks if they decide it is necessary. Officials will continue to test new segments of tracks as the Expo Construction Authority finishes construction, Jager said.

Daniel Hulbert, a fourth-year physics student who currently takes the Big Blue Bus from Santa Monica, said he expects the Expo Line to decrease his commute time to UCLA because he wouldn’t have to wait in traffic.

Other students said Metro officials should focus on having more train lines connect to the Expo Line to create more routes throughout Los Angeles.

“I would use it, but I think there should be more direct lines, like the Bay Area Rapid Transit system in San Francisco,” said Raquel Ribeiro, a third-year biology student. “It would save gas and it’s quicker.”

Metro officials will start pre-revenue testing by the end of the year, which involves checking the signals, whistles and lights before the Expo Line opens in early 2016.

Compiled by Roberto Luna Jr., Bruin contributor.