Expo Light Rail Line begins testing
Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
LACMTA
In California, clearance testing for the second phase of the Expo Metro Line Construction Authority's Expo Line light-rail project began April 6 with a train running under its own power running west from Culver City. This is the first time a light-rail vehicle has crossed the new bridge over Venice Boulevard.
The second phase of the Expo Line is expected to open next spring between Culver City and downtown Santa Monica, allowing rides between 7th/Metro Center in downtown Los Angeles and downtown Santa Monica.
The project is funded by Measure R, the half-cent sales tax increase approved by Los Angeles County voters in 2008. The project is being built the Expo Metro Line Construction Authority. When construction is complete later this year, the authority will hand over the project to Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA), which will operate the line.
The testing activity tests train clearances, the overhead catenary system, traffic signals and all related systems before the project is turned over to LACMTA for pre-revenue operations.
