LOS ANGELES (KNX) — In its biggest service restoration since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Metrolink is adding 26 trains to its schedule on April 4, commuter system officials said Tuesday.
"I’m elated that we’re able to restore our service close to pre-pandemic levels, so our riders can get to work, to friends and family and to fun – more affordably and without the headaches of traffic and parking," Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle said in a statement.
"As a Metrolink rider, I am happy that my two favorite Ventura County Line trains are coming back into service, so I can have more flexibility to get to and from work. And I know from my conversations with fellow Metrolink riders, they too are looking forward to the flexibility our new schedule will bring to their lives."
Two years ago the commuter service saw a 90% drop in ridership as the pandemic hit, and responded by reducing its schedule by around 30%. Many of the remaining riders were essential workers, Metrolink said.
As much of the state reopens, the service said it is still at around 30% of its pre-pandemic levels, and hopes that restored service will bring people back to trains.
"Following the additional service on April 4, the agency anticipates that percentage will grow to about 44% by midsummer," Metrolink said.
"On the weekends, Metrolink has already recovered nearly 70% of its pre-pandemic ridership."
"Where to next? Your train schedules are getting a major glow up on Monday, April 4. We’re giving you 26 MORE TRAINS to connect you to more destinations and your next big adventure!" Metrolink tweeted Tuesday.
Metrolink ticket prices range from $0.50 to $26.50, depending on distance of travel, with an average one-way trip costing about $6.60, the commuter service said. Discounts are available for youth, seniors, studnets, persons with disabilities and active military.
Travel will be reinstated to the following areas:
91/Perris Valley Line: Two added trains with midday service to Los Angeles and a reverse morning trip to Riverside County.
Antelope Valley Line: Six added trains and schedule updates offering increased flexibility for weekday travel.
Orange County Line: Two added trains offering more weekday morning service.
Riverside Line: Four added trains offering increased flexibility for weekday travel.
San Bernardino Line: Six added trains including later evening trains, plus new Sunday service.
Ventura County line: Six added Metrolink trains including weekday morning and evening trains, plus four Amtrak Pacific Surfliner trains that are now available to all Metrolink ticket holders – including on Saturday and Sundays.
Face coverings are required by federal law on Metrolink trains and at the platforms and stations. To find the updated schedule, click here.
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