Metrolink

This weekend, more than 70 Metrolink team members from the operations, signal, communication and track departments are performing rail crossing tests to ensure the ZEMU safely navigates the Arrow corridor between San Bernardino and Redlands. During the testing, the train will sound its horn through crossings. That will only take place during this testing or when the engineer sees something or someone near the right of way. During normal Arrow service, train horns are not regularly blown thanks to the enhanced safety crossing technologies that allow for a "Quiet Zone." #publictransit #publictransportation #SouthernCalifornia #zemu #hydrogen

What happens if you're riding on Metrolink and an earthquake strikes? Metrolink trains are equipped with a system to safely slow or stop trains during intense shaking. Here’s an explanation from Luis Carrasquero, Deputy Chief Operating Officer.

Rider Sandra P. wrote in a commendation for Conductor David Rodriguez recently for his thoughtful communication during service interruptions. "This is an important work quality that needs to be addressed and taught," Sandra said. "Commuters depend on it because we also have places to be and timelines to meet. He demonstrates empathy. He is clear with his communications. He is approachable and considerate. He represents you extremely well!" Well done, David!

When rider John L. and his family missed their stop, Conductor Sam Garcia ensured the panicked family's safety and comfort as he routed an itinerary for them to get home. "Conductor Garcia, in my opinion, is a true professional and a total asset to Metrolink," John wrote to us. Our conductors continue to set the standard!

This week is National Customer Service Week, and we'd be remiss if we didn't take a moment to recognize our frontline teams in Customer Experience. Our Metrolink riders encounter members of our Customer Relations team (pictured left) at L.A. Union Station and perhaps even elsewhere in our system. They are the primary point of contact for train riders, informing customers at the train platforms during service disruptions, making public address announcements, and assisting in preventing unnecessary delays to passengers. And that's not even the half of it. Our Communications Desk (pictured right) provides train service updates to customers through social media platforms and station electronic message boards. The team also coordinates alternate transportation during service interruptions, responds to customer comments, and is critical to the agency’s emergency communication procedures. Without these two teams firing an all cylinders, Metrolink just isn't Metrolink. Thank you for all of your work to make our customer experience unforgettable.

Last week, Metrolink received a Grand Award from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) for their annual AdWheel Awards celebrating the best in public transportation marketing, communications and customer experience efforts. Metrolink's Student Adventure Pass campaign was honored in the category "Best Campaign to Support Ridership." Amber Moyers, the project manager for the campaign and the curator of the submission, accepted the award on Metrolink's behalf at the APTA TRANSform conference in Anaheim.

"Cool as a cucumber" is how Metrolink rider Judy H. described Conductor David Miramontez. When writing her commendation into metrolinktrains.com, Judy also cited Conductor David's kindness, friendliness and finesse with passengers not abiding by the code of conduct. Excellent work, conductor!

On Tuesday, October 1, Metrolink ridership reached a new post-pandemic record with 22,591 boardings, breaking the previous record of 22,089. Programs like Student Adventure Pass are starting the new school year with a culture of rail travel, so we are excited to see this progress. Thank you to our riders who #takethetrain!

Anna Denecke is part of the Government Relations team. She plays a vital role in educating policymakers in Washington and Sacramento about Metrolink’s vision for the future of transit in Southern California. Through her advocacy for our services, Anna helps ensure the agency delivers more convenient, affordable, and timely transit solutions for our communities.