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August 2024 Issue

Metrolink Represented at Senate Transportation Subcommittee Hearing

Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle testifies before the Senate Transportation Subcommittee on LOSSAN Rail Corridor Resiliency.

Last Tuesday, Aug. 13, CEO Darren Kettle traveled to Sacramento to testify before the California State Senate Transportation Subcommittee on LOSSAN Rail Corridor Resiliency. The “Southern California Passenger Rail Service – Performance and Operations” hearing also featured North County Transit District CEO Shawn Donaghy and LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Managing Director Jason Jewell.

During his remarks, Darren highlighted the investment that will be required for the agency to comply with the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) In-Use Locomotive Regulation, which will ban locomotives over 23 years old from operating in California, beginning in 2030. He also stressed the need for funding to support preparations for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games and outlined the agency’s ongoing transformation from a commuter-focused model to a regional passenger railroad to better serve existing and new customers. Darren responded to questions from lawmakers about Metrolink’s ridership goals, zero-emissions equipment, security and the transparency of goods movement through the LOSSAN Corridor.

A second panel saw additional testimony from Roger Clugston, director of the Rail Safety Division at the Public Utilities Commission; Kyle Gradinger, chief of Caltrans’ Division of Rail and Mass Transportation; and Karl Schwing, director of the California Coastal Commission’s San Diego, South Coast and Orange County District. Their remarks focused on safety protocols, rail’s role in efficiently and climate-consciously moving people and goods, and coastal resiliency challenges.

August 2024 Issue