Budget final after being approved by member agencies
LOS ANGELES - Yesterday, Metrolink's FY 2011-12 budget received final approval after being adopted by all five of its member agencies. The budget provides for further safety enhancements, the addition of 22 new trains, including four that are part of the express pilot that reduces commute time for passengers and no base fare increases. The budget also includes a new onboard customer service initiative where Metrolink will provide face-to-face customer service during the commute.
"I am pleased that our board and staff worked with our member agencies to develop a budget that gives our passengers more transportation options, enhanced safety and even better customer service without a fare increase," said Metrolink Board Chairman Richard Katz. "Additionally, through smart, tough decision-making, Metrolink expects to end the 2010-2011 fiscal year under budget."
The Customer Onboard Assistance Team (COAT) program puts Customer Engagement Representatives on trains to provide customer service and information to passengers during their commute. The cost of the additional train service and new programs is being offset by operational savings, efficiencies gained by restructuring contracts and an anticipated increase in fare revenue as a result of increased ridership.
New train service includes:
• Six trains that will operate on the Orange County Line starting July 5
• Six trains on the Antelope Valley Line, including two peak hour express trains and four trains that began operating on May 9
• Six trains on the San Bernardino Line, including two peak hour express trains and four trains that began operating on May 9
• Two trains on the Ventura County Line that began operating on May 9
• Two seasonal beach trains from San Bernardino to San Clemente Beach beginning July 2
"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 customers" said Metrolink CEO John Fenton. "We are fortunate to have a supportive board and a hardworking staff to make this possible."
The Metrolink Board of Directors approved the budget following the public hearing held at its Board meeting in June. Metrolink's budget was considered and approved by its five member agencies (RCTC, VCTC, SANBAG, OCTA and Metro) over the past two months.
