Expo Line Update: Metro Expanding Test Train Operations

Metro swears the Expo Line will open soon, but they're still in the testing phase of the light rail route.

Now Metro says they are expanding their testing to better simulate regular service on the line, and will be running test trains from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week on a schedule of every 12 minutes. The expanded testing begins Sunday, March 18.

"The additional train testing is needed in an effort to test the operation of the trains and the integration of Expo Line service with Metro Blue Line service in downtown Los Angeles," notes Metro in a news release issued today.

And that opening date? Nope, they're not giving one yet. "Metro will select an opening date for the public once all systems and trains are thoroughly tested and operated."

They say it will start running "in early 2012," which, on top of the extended testing, means opening day has got to be close, since we are almost a quarter of the way through with 2012.