As we begin the new year, I want to start by reflecting on a December staple that truly captures the spirit of community that defines Metrolink. Launched in 2019 and thoughtfully reimagined after the pandemic, our Holiday Express events returned in 2023 and have once again grown into a cherished tradition. This year’s celebrations delivered unforgettable moments for families across the region. Over the first three weekends in December, we operated 12 special event trains across six days, welcoming riders in all our service counties. Each experience began with festive station celebrations and continued onboard with visits from holiday favorites, including Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Thanks to strong partnerships with our member agencies, local businesses and all-star sponsors, we were proud to welcome nearly 9,000 satisfied holiday enthusiasts across all stops. Metrolink Board members also came aboard to take part in the festivities, including Director William Go at the Irvine stop and Second Vice-Chair Tony Trembley in Simi Valley.
CEO Darren Kettle and the Holiday Express project team pose with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Simi Valley tour stop. From left: Kettle, Corporate Sales Specialist Ricardo Davila III, Partnerships Coordinator Crystal Grant, Public Relations Manager Brett Hawkins and Corporate Partner Program Manager Amber Moyers.
Beyond the holidays, we remain focused on strengthening the day-to-day reliability of our service. Last month, Metrolink implemented targeted schedule adjustments on the Ventura County and San Bernardino lines designed to improve on-time performance and better align service across the system. These changes were informed by performance data and rider feedback, and while the adjustments were modest, they are an important part of our ongoing effort to deliver a more consistent and dependable experience for the customers who count on us every day.
This month, we’ve also brought back two popular activations that reaffirm our commitment to the communities we serve. Yesterday, we invited riders on board for free in celebration of Transit Equity Day, honoring the legacy of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks on her birthday. Alongside our member agencies, LA Metro and the Orange County Transportation Authority, Riverside County Transportation Commission, San Bernardino County Transportation Authority and Ventura County Transportation Commission, we eliminated fare barriers across the region, helping new customers explore the ease and convenience of using our interconnected public transportation network. We recorded more than 29,169 boardings throughout the day.
Looking ahead to next Thursday, Feb. 12, we’ll be sharing our love for our riders on Customer Appreciation Day by surprising them with giveaways at select stations. Customer Appreciation Day is always especially meaningful to me because it allows us to connect with riders on a more personal level and thank them for choosing Metrolink. Each year, I share a video message directly with our customers, speaking not just as a CEO, but as a rider myself who understands the trust our passengers place in us.
Gratitude, in transit, is something you prove over time, and we know the truest way we can share our appreciation is by delivering a world-class regional rail system worthy of our customers’ transportation needs and, in the not-too-distant future, the global stage. Feb. 12 is exactly four months out from the first Los Angeles-based match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While we still have work to do before the opening whistle blows, I’m confident that Team Metrolink is up to the challenge.