LA Metro to start Blue Line modernization project in January

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) in January will begin a $350 million project to modernize the 28-year-old Blue Line, the agency's oldest rail line.

Work on the light-rail line will include improvements to signaling, tracks, overhead wires and several stations. In addition, crews will build four new crossover tracks to reduce service interruptions.

The "New Blue" project will require two extended four-month closures starting in January, Metro officials said in a press release. Additionally, service to the station in Willowbrook, California, will be halted for eight months as workers rebuild that stop.

The agency has committed $1.2 billion for Blue Line improvements, including system upgrades, safety enhancements and new rail cars.

In April, the agency wrapped up a project to improve pedestrian safety at 27 grade crossings along the Blue Line. This month, Metro is retiring its remaining Nippon Sharyo P865 cars, which will be replaced with new Kinkisharyo P3010 units.

Meanwhile, the agency is launching a "robust" outreach campaign to keep riders updated about the New Blue project, Metro officials said.