As the Marina del Rey area eyes an increase in business commuters and local residents who would travel its roads daily, the big issue that could hinder that growth is an L.A. perennial traffic congestion.

Already many roads in and around the area are crowded and among long-time residents and commuters as well as business considering relocating, there’s a fear that it can only get worse.

The Playa Vista developers are spending more than $100 million on new roads, signalization and other traditional traffic improvements. There’s even talk of extending the Marina (91) Freeway, which stops short of the county marina.

Far less pricey is the Marina del Rey beach shuttle, first used last summer, which will again be in service this year.

Designed to shepherd riders to and from various cultural events, the shuttle makes stops between Venice and Marina del Rey. The clean-fuel shuttle is sponsored by Playa Vista and Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe. Designed to ease traffic on congested Lincoln Boulevard, the program was so popular last year that the county may extend it throughout the year, according to a spokesman for Knabe. The shuttle is used by business people and residents in the area.

There’s also a tram system in the works for the Playa Vista development. The tram will be designed to connect the nearby entertainment and employment areas. The tram will not leave Playa Vista, but will provide a convenient way for users to move around the area.