Metro Expo line to open for free this weekend

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

Many commuters are looking forward to trying out the new line for free this weekend.

"It's like a real time saver for people who are trying to go far," said Jim Ortega, a Metro commuter.

The Expo line runs from Flower and Seventh streets in downtown L.A. to University of Southern California, and then makes its way all the way to Culver City.

A lot of commuters are welcoming the Expo line, saying the line will make a huge difference.

"It's something that's positive, especially for our neighborhood, so USC students can get around safely," said Iona Diggs, a South L.A. resident.

Eventually, officials want the Expo line to go all the way to Santa Monica. That phase is slated to be completed by 2016.

Commuters have been waiting for the new rail for quite some time. The 8.6-mile Expo line is nearly two years behind schedule and about $290 million over budget. The $932-million project, which connects with the existing Red, Blue and Purple lines, started in 2006.

The free rides start Saturday and continue through Sunday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Copyright © 2024 KABC Television, LLC. All rights reserved.