As many of you know, it’s a challenging time for public transit agencies around the country as we navigate changes to state and federal funding while maintaining slow ridership growth since the pandemic. Metrolink is among those that are facing tough choices on service and fares to support the long-term sustainability of our system. While we recognize that these changes may impact riders and communities, as we heard at our recent Title VI hearing, I promise you we are working closely with our agency partners to limit those changes and continue delivering essential services.
Beyond the ongoing budget work, our teams are focusing on not only providing clean, safe, and reliable service – but also innovating to help prepare us for the future.
The grant-funded contactless payments pilot launched on June 10 on our San Bernardino Line and Arrow service, is making Metrolink more accessible for new and occasional customers and out-of-town visitors. Riders can now pay one-way fares by simply tapping a credit card, mobile wallet or wearable device before boarding and again when they arrive. This new payment option makes riding Metrolink more intuitive and flexible while helping us accommodate increased travel demand during this summer’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ and beyond.
We are also finding new ways to strengthen Metrolink through creative partnerships. Earlier this month, our collaboration with Bleecker Street Productions in support of their recently released comedy feature film Stop! That! Train! demonstrated how innovative sponsorship and advertising opportunities can introduce Metrolink to new audiences while developing valuable new revenue streams. As public transit agencies continue to navigate financial challenges, partnerships like these help diversify revenue while supporting our investments that benefit our riders.
Meanwhile, the recent opening of LA Metro's D Line extension, which expands rail access along the Wilshire Corridor, has quickly become a testament to the spirit of connectivity at the heart of Southern California’s growing public transit network. The line’s trio of new stops has opened up fresh opportunities for Metrolink riders traveling through Los Angeles Union Station, offering a direct route to popular destinations, such as the Academy Museum, LACMA, the La Brea Tar Pits and Beverly Center. Our team continues to share information with customers about these new connections and the adventures they can have beyond regional rail.
It’s an exciting time in the region, with the World Cup bringing new people to the area and locals experiencing transit for the first time. As I tell our team at Metrolink, you only have one chance to make a first impression, and we’re doing all we can to make it a good one. I hope to see you on the train.