10 Reasons People Love the Expo Train
May 18, 2017 3:19 PM
by Joseph Vandenorth
Santa Monica has always been a destination. With the opening of the Expo Light Rail extension to Santa Monica in May of last year, getting to-and-from our city by the sea became more accessible, sustainable and enjoyable. Just last month, Expo saw over 1.5 million riders. What’s really incredible are the weekend numbers. Nearly 40,000 people take Expo on Sundays alone. This means we are seeing less people drive to Santa Monica, relieving pressure on our streets and keeping the air cleaner. Simply put: Expo is helping the City solve some of our biggest challenges.
One could talk about the numbers all day, but it’s more compelling to listen to the stories of the people whose lives have improved because of Expo. As our birthday card to Expo on its one-year anniversary of extending to Santa Monica, we asked our residents and workers: why do you love Expo? Here’s what we heard back.
The train is much more than transportation - it provides direct interaction with people while allowing me to avoid gridlock. Seeing the incredible variety of riders is icing on the cake!
I love the fact that I can just walk to the train on 4th and Colorado and it drops me off at work at USC, and back home again.
I very seldom take my car out on the highways anymore.
I no longer lurch forward on the 10 after a long day at work. Instead, I watch a movie on my phone, read a book, or look out at a city that is now more than the bumper of the car in front of me.
I love how it brings the city together.
The Expo Line is great for both work and play. From downtown LA to the Westside, it’s an easy ride as you pass the cars stuck on the 10 Fwy.
I love taking it to DTLA to meet friends.
Because as a native West Angelino, I have waited my whole life for a train to come to town. And now it’s here!
I love how easy it is to get to Downtown Los Angeles without worrying about traffic and parking.
Commuting by Expo Light Rail has alleviated the mental and physical stress that comes along with driving in LA traffic and is saving me time and money.
Tell us why you love Expo with #GoSaMo on Twitter or Instagram.
Want to come out to celebrate Expo? Drop by and pick up a commemorative More to Explore Pass and other giveaway items on May 25th (details below). Make sure to hold on to your pass as two lucky winners will also be selected each week to receive a 30-Day Metro TAP card.
Thursday, May 25 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. - 17th Street/SMC Station & Downtown Santa Monica Station
Authored By
Joseph Vandenorth
Public Information Coordinator