Light Rail Extension to South Sacramento County Opens Today

"Sacramento Regional Transit’s long-awaited $270 million Blue Line light-rail extension to Cosumnes River College starts regular service [August 24, 2015], carrying with it some big questions," according to an article by Tony Bizjak.

Questions include the willingness of residents of Elk Grove and other South Sacramento County communities to ride the train and the ability of Regional Transit (RT) to deliver a reliable, quality service that competes with Highway 99 on commute times.

Bizjak finds two types of people already happy about the new extension.

• "Regional Transit officials say they are pleased with the 4-mile extension – which boasts three new stations and some eclectic art – and that commuters will appreciate the quality of the ride."
• "Transit advocates say the line will be a key part of the region’s transportation system, allowing south county drivers a reliable alternative to Highway 99, the most congested freeway in the region, and Interstate 5, which is projected to handle more traffic when the massive Delta Shores community takes shape near Freeport in the next few years."

The article also notes, however, that controversy preceded the opening, especially in the city of Elk Grove, where some residents prefer the current service of the Elk Grove e-tran bus. RT has also taken heat for the quality of its service in other parts of the city in recent months.