Los Angeles, CA – The recent closure of I-10 in Downtown Los Angeles due to a fire has disrupted traffic and created significant challenges for motorists and commuters. However, there are viable alternatives available, such as the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) and other public transit options. In this blog post, we will explore how utilizing Metro and public transit can help you navigate the closure and reach your destination efficiently.
Metro Rail Lines: E Line and A Line
One of the best alternatives to I-10 is Metro’s E Line, a 22-mile rail line that runs parallel to the freeway. It offers 29 stations between East Los Angeles and Santa Monica, providing a convenient route for travel. The E Line can help you reach various destinations around Downtown Los Angeles while avoiding the congestion caused by the freeway closure.
Another excellent option is Metro’s A Line, which spans 48.5 miles and encompasses 44 stations from Azusa to Long Beach. This line offers an alternative to the I-110 and I-210 freeways, making it an ideal choice for commuters traveling to and from these areas.
Metrolink: Connecting From Surrounding Counties
For those coming from Ventura, San Bernardino, Riverside, or Orange counties, Metrolink is a viable alternative. Their San Bernardino and Riverside lines offer service into Union Station, where you can easily transition to Metro’s A, B, and D rail lines. Metrolink is increasing capacity and adding temporary roundtrip service on the San Bernardino Line to accommodate the increased demand during the freeway closure. Be sure to check their schedule updates for the latest information.
Metro Bus Lines: A Comprehensive Network
Metro’s extensive bus network provides numerous options for commuters looking to navigate the city during the I-10 closure. The Silver Line (910/950) and Line 487/489 operate along the I-10 ExpressLanes, offering a reliable and efficient way to travel. Additionally, Line 76 on Valley Boulevard north of I-10 and Line 70 on Garvey Boulevard south of I-10 can help you reach your destination in those areas.
Within the immediate vicinity of the closure, Metro offers multiple bus lines, including Line 18 on 6th Street and Line 66 on Olympic Boulevard, providing convenient alternatives for those traveling around the affected area.
Transit Partners: Foothill Transit
Foothill Transit is another valuable resource for commuters during the I-10 closure. They operate several lines that serve Downtown Los Angeles, including the Silver Streak Express, which utilizes the I-10 ExpressLanes for a swift journey from Montclair to Downtown L.A. They also offer other express bus lines, such as 490, 493, 495, 498, 499, and 699, connecting communities throughout the San Gabriel Valley to Downtown Los Angeles.
Plan Your Journey and Stay Informed
To make the most of public transit during the I-10 closure, it’s important to plan your journey in advance. Visit metro.net or call 5-1-1 for Metro-related information, including parking lots, maps, schedules, and route planning tools. Caltrans’ quickmap.dot.ca.gov provides real-time freeway traffic conditions, helping you make informed decisions. Furthermore, you can reach out to 323-Go Metro for transit planning assistance.
The closure of I-10 in Downtown Los Angeles presents a significant challenge for motorists and commuters. However, by utilizing Metro’s rail lines, the extensive bus network, and partnering with transit agencies like Metrolink and Foothill Transit, you can navigate around the closure and reach your destination with ease. Embracing public transit during this period not only helps alleviate traffic congestion but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future for Los Angeles.
Links:
Schedules/maps for every rail/bus line
https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism
