The implementation of a rail system along Exposition Blvd could mean a greater connection for USC students and locals to the city of Los Angeles, and it is possibly a significant piece of infrastructure that will help shape the city in many ways.
There are certainly benefits from implementing a light rail system, the question is; are the benefits greater than the risks and cost. Construction costs are huge it can take years and it shuts down many parts of the city, making a huge inconvenience for locals and commuters. Once completed, the light rails overall maintenance is much lower than the bus system. Connection to the bus system is key for this specific light rail to function. The bus connection is basic since this area is highly gridded, but how effective is this connection if the busses run so infrequently. It is also possible that the placement of this rail is significantly detrimental to the neighborhoods south of Exposition. USC is already separated from the areas south of Exposition due the stigma it holds from the students. If the city was really concerned with engaging spaces like the California Science Center, The Exposition Park Rose Garden and the Natural History Museum they would have strategically placed the rail a few streets south of these landmarks, therefore increasing the foot traffic, making it safer, and improving the surrounding neighborhoods; instead what they create is a barrier. If the rail had been placed underground from Figueroa to Vermont the city would have avoided this very obvious barrier between the campus and the park. Overall, any move the city makes towards increasing and improving its public transit is a good move. The issue lies in the design and placement of these systems in order to secure more growth and overall improvement of the surrounding areas. More attention needs to be paid during planning to make sure the effects of these systems on the city and its neighborhoods are positive.
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