The closures disrupted businesses, and at least one of thehandful of Downtown-area commercial construction projects. Thelogjams also fueled fears of both Downtown workers and cityofficials that things will only get worse by the time the Democratshold their party at Staples Center beginning Aug. 14.

Only the Metropolitan Transportation Authority--which operatesthe Red Line subway from the San Fernando Valley, Hollywood and theWilshire District and the Blue Line light rail line from LongBeach--offers a welcoming nod to Downtown commuters and conventionvisitors alike.

"We think a lot of new customers and visitors will be using theRed and Blue lines during the convention" to avoid traffic tie-ups,MTA spokesman Tom Conner tells GlobeSt.com. The MTA will have fourBlue Line and two Red Line trains standing by, ready to be pressedinto service if needed, he adds.