By Jonathan Friedman
Associate Editor

July 17, 2014 -- Some Big Blue Bus routes could be eliminated and others could be adjusted as officials work out how to integrate the transportation system with the second phase of the Expo Line that is expected to begin bringing passengers from Downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica in early 2016.

Three meetings will take place next week so people can share their opinions on possible changes. They will take place at the following locations and times:

Tuesday, July 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Felicia Mahood Senior Citizen Center, 11338 Santa Monica Blvd. in Los Angeles

Wednesday, July 23 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium East Wing, 1855 Main St. in Santa Monica

Thursday, July 24 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Santa Monica Main Library’s Multipurpose Room, 601 Santa Monica Blvd. in Santa Monica

Seven rail stations or stops are under construction within the Big Blue Bus service area, according to a message on the Big Blue Bus’ website. Among them are three in Santa Monica -- 26th Street/Bergamot, Santa Monica College and Downtown.

“The Expo Line is projected to carry 64,000 riders per day by the year 2030, but this can only take place if bus connections to its stations are made as useful and convenient as possible,” a message on the Big Blue Bus’ website says.

The message encourages people to take a survey about integration plans and to attend at least one of the meetings.

The website also includes recommended changes to the system from a team of Big Blue Bus officials and the transportation consultant firm Nelson\Nygaard. Visit bigbluebus.com to take the survey and see visuals of the proposed Big Blue Bus route changes.