Expo Line Will Not Decrease Traffic

February 23, 2009

Dear Editor,

(Re: "OPINION -- Right-of-Way Route Faster, Cheaper, Safer, Higher Ridership, says Friends4Expo Transit," February 20, 2009)

Karen Leonard repeats the common misperception that the Expo Line will somehow improve traffic.  The MTA has already publicly stated that it does not project a reduction in traffic or traffic congestion on the 10 freeway, any boulevard or major street as a result of the construction of the Expo Line.

The MTA is certain about this because no rail line built to date has ever improved traffic on any freeway, boulevard, or major street.

When are reporters going to wake up and report the true story?

This rail line does have great economic benefits to Santa Monicans because it will allow more people to travel to Santa Monica to work, shop, and travel to the beach.  But it will not take cars off the road (at-grade rail is always to slow to do that).  And because it won’t take cars of the road, it will not improve the local environment – even a little bit.

Alex Benn
Santa Monica/West LA