Metrolink, Southern California’s regional passenger rail provider, has earned premier recognition from the 2025 Railway Technology Excellence Awards in three categories: innovation, marketing and safety. The annual awards program is powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence operation and celebrates industry leaders who are driving meaningful progress and setting new standards in rail transportation. 

“At Metrolink, we’re focused on building a regional rail system that meets the moment and anticipates what comes next,” Metrolink Chief Executive Officer Darren Kettle said. “Being honored across multiple categories by this year’s Railway Technology Excellence Awards demonstrates that our approach to innovation is delivering real results, turning vision into everyday value for our riders.”

Metrolink received top honors in the Innovation Award Smart Mobility category for the agency’s development and implementation of Wireless Crossing Nearside Station Stop (WCNSS) systems at multiple crossings across its 545-mile, six-county network. These ‘smart’ systems leverage Metrolink’s Positive Train Control (PTC) technology to prevent unnecessary gate activations at crossings near stations, which helps to keep local street traffic flowing while trains make their scheduled stops.

The promotional campaign for Metrolink’s standout Student Adventure Pass program was selected as this year’s Marketing Award winner. Strategic partnerships with more than 50 schools and universities were central to the success of the free student ridership initiative, allowing Metrolink direct access to target audiences throughout the region. Between October 2023 and June 2025, students took advantage of more than 3.5 million free rides, growing monthly student ridership by 131% during that window and introducing a new generation to the convenience of using public transit.

Metrolink also earned the highest distinction in the Safety Award Earthquake Warning Systems category for its pioneering partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). By integrating Metrolink’s PTC system with USGS ShakeAlert technology, trains are equipped to receive real-time, location-specific seismic data and automatically slow or stop when conditions require. On April 14, 2025, a 5.2-magnitude earthquake near Julian, California, triggered the system’s first full-stop response, halting three San Bernardino Line trains and demonstrating Metrolink’s readiness and commitment to safety in an earthquake-prone region.

Together, these accolades reflect the momentum behind Metrolink Reimagined, the agency’s ongoing evolution from a traditional commuter railroad to a modern regional rail network centered on equity, reliability and access. Whether preparing for seismic events, easing street congestion near stations or removing cost barriers for students, Metrolink is investing in scalable solutions that deliver real-world benefits. This recognition underscores the creativity, care and collaboration of the team driving Metrolink’s progress and working each day to strengthen the role of public transportation across Southern California.