Poll: Will Expo Line Ease Traffic in SM?

Eight days ago, city officials broke ground in Santa Monica for Phase 2 of the , which will extend to SM from Culver City. .

The Expo Line promises an easy ride from Downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica and relief for motorists looking for car alternatives. The system could become the most heavily used light rail branch in L.A., serving commuters, tourists and beach-goers seven days a week.

Santa Monica Patch columnist Gary Kavanagh has opined that "the Expo Line should give a huge boost to transit."

While officials hope the Expo Line will ease traffic on the Westside, Mayor Pro Tempore Gleam Davis has cautioned that the system will not completely solve the city's traffic woes.

"My goal is, when the Expo opens, that every resident of Santa Monica will have a very easy transit solution to get to the Expo station," she told Santa Monica Patch. "The Expo Line is not a panacea. But as someone who works downtown, I can tell you that being able to get to a light-rail station would be fabulous."

What's your take? Do you predict that, once completed, the Expo Line will ease traffic in Santa Monica? Do you think the traffic levels will remain the same? Or do you think the Expo Line could actually make traffic worse?

We want to hear from you. Participate in our poll and/or share your thoughts in the comments box below.