Metrolink expects to close FY 10-11 ten percent under budget

Los Angeles – Today, the Metrolink Board of Directors advanced its proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2011-2012 to its five member agencies for consideration. The proposed budget adds new safety enhancements and 16 new trains to the schedule, including a pilot program for four new express trains that make limited stops reducing commute time, without requiring additional subsidy from member agencies.

“Metrolink Board and Staff leadership has developed a budget that adds substantial value to Metrolink passengers and the region without increased subsidy from member agencies,” said Metrolink Board Chairman Richard Katz. “Additionally, through smart, tough decision-making, Metrolink expects to end the 2010-2011 fiscal year ten percent under budget.”

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

Metrolink Vice Chairman and Mayor of San Bernardino Patrick Morris called the budget “a good news budget in a bad news time.”

New trains and service enhancements go into effect May 9. They include:

• 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 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 that arrives at Burbank airport in time for 7 a.m. departures
• Various time changes to accommodate new service additions

“As gas prices continue to increase and transportation funding remains scarce, Metrolink is assuming a bigger role in meeting the region’s transportation needs by adding service that provides more solutions for our ridership.” said Metrolink CEO John Fenton. “We are all fortunate to have such a supportive board and hard-working staff to make this possible.”

The new Metrolink schedule can be viewed online. Passengers are encouraged to check the schedule as many train schedule times have changed. Metrolink also hopes that commuters who currently drive will check the schedule to see if there are options that will get them to their destination, while saving money and time.

Once Metrolink’s member agencies consider and approve the FY11-12 budget, Metrolink will hold public hearings and the Board will consider final approval. This is expected to occur in May and June this year.

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.
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