Metrolink Launches 16 New Trains Including Express and Late Night Service

LOS ANGELES, May 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Metrolink added 16 new trains to its system, providing more affordable transportation options as gas prices near record levels. Of the new trains, four are part of an express service pilot program that can save commuters up to an hour every day by limiting the number of stops.

"Metrolink trains offer a convenient alternative to driving. Our new service expansion provides Southern Californians even more options to save time and money by taking public transportation," said Metrolink Board Chairman Richard Katz at an early morning press conference at Los Angeles Union Station.

In addition to adding 16 new trains, Metrolink is expanding the routes of two early-morning trains to Burbank's Bob Hope airport to provide travelers an opportunity to take the train to their plane. Metrolink also adjusted the schedules of Orange County and San Bernardino line trains to connect with early morning trains to the airport.

The cost of new service is being offset by operational savings and an anticipated increase in fare revenue as a result of increased ridership.

The new trains are:

• Six additional trains on the Antelope Valley line including two peak hour express trains and an additional four new trains
• Six additional trains on the San Bernardino line including two peak-hour express trains and an additional four new trains
• Two additional trains on the Ventura County line
• Two 2 seasonal beach trains will operate on the Inland Empire-Orange County line between July and October
• Two trains extended to the Burbank Airport to enhance connectivity for the region's travelers. Additionally, trains on the San Bernardino and Orange County lines schedules will change to connect with a train at Union Station arriving  at the Burbank airport in time for 7 a.m. airport departures
• Various time changes to accommodate new service additions

"We want to get our passengers to their destination quicker than driving and more affordably. As gas prices continue to increase and transportation funding remains scarce, Metrolink is looking to play a bigger role in meeting the region's transportation needs by providing service that competes with the car," said Metrolink CEO John Fenton.  

The new schedule can be viewed at http://www.metrolinktrains.com/schedules/.

ABOUT METROLINK

Metrolink is Southern California's regional commuter rail service in its 19th year of operations. The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA), a joint powers authority made up of an 11-member board representing the transportation commissions of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties, governs the service. Metrolink operates over seven routes through a six-county, 512 route-mile network.

SOURCE Metrolink