East LA Braces for Gold Line Opening

The Metro Gold Line eastside extension - connecting East LA to Pasadena via Downtown - is set to begin operation in September, just a couple of months after the initial scheduled opening. Metro is currently working on last-minute cosmetic details, removing construction equipment, and testing the mechanics of the 6-mile extension. The line is projected to carry 13,000 passengers per day in the first year, but every prior rail opening in the city has far surpassed rider expectations. Primary in pre-opening considerations is safety, according to MTA, especially in the underground segment of the line - the dual tunnel system that has been constructed under Boyle Heights.

Pedestrian and vehicle safety workshops are being conducted in the communities that the new line will serve, especially those that may not have been exposed to light-rail transit, namely the largely Spanish-speaking communities east of the LA River. In addition, MTA has employed safety ambassadors to stand outside of the stations for the next 6 months, answering questions and giving instructions to curious passers-by. MTA has proven extremely diplomatic in its approach to the construction and introduction of this line, having also assisted nearby small businesses maintain customer traffic despite construction inconveniences. This is an approach MTA will want to retain for public relations with South LA communities that will be affected by the incoming Expo Line. Some residents there have fought immutably to block ground-level crossings. Residents will also want to watch for safety statistics on the new Gold Line.

And drivers take warning: cameras will be placed at every train crossing, ready to ticket those imprudent drivers who make illegal turns.