50 Facts About Metrolink

Southern California Metrolink: A Journey Through Time

Metrolink in Southern California has been a game-changer for public transportation since its inception. Let's take a closer look at its history and growth.

1. Southern California Metrolink began operations on October 26, 1992, with three lines and 11 stations, serving approximately 2,300 daily passengers.
2. Expansion and Growth have been significant, with Metrolink now operating seven lines, 62 stations, and serving around 40,000 daily passengers, totaling about 406 million passenger miles per year.
3. Network Size spans 536 route miles, making it a major player in regional transportation.
4. Historic Union Station in downtown Los Angeles serves as Metrolink’s central transit hub, connecting various lines and providing a convenient starting point for passengers.
5. Riverside Line opened in June 1993, becoming Metrolink’s fourth operational line, further enhancing the network’s reach.
6. One-Millionth Passenger was celebrated in October 1993, marking a significant milestone in its growth and popularity.
7. Northridge Earthquake on January 17, 1994, led Metrolink to expedite the construction of the Antelope Valley Line to meet urgent community needs, adding six new stations along the Ventura County Line.
8. Orange County Line opened in March 1994, becoming the longest line in Metrolink’s system, extending its reach into Orange County.
9. San Bernardino Line introduced regular weekend service with the Saturday Explorer, a special train service that became a customer favorite.
10. 91 Line opened in 2002, linking Riverside-Downtown, Fullerton, and Downtown LA, adding another vital route to the network.

Innovations and Milestones

Metrolink has continuously innovated to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency.

11. Rail 2 Rail Program allowed Monthly Pass holders to transfer to selected Amtrak routes at no additional charge, enhancing the overall travel experience.
12. Mobile Ticketing launched in March 2016, enabling passengers to purchase tickets on the go, making travel more convenient.
13. Perris Valley Line opened on June 6, 2016, marking Metrolink’s first major expansion since 1994. The line added four new stations and enhanced safety measures at 15 crossings.
14. Tier 4 Locomotive arrived at Los Angeles Union Station in June 2016, symbolizing a commitment to environmental sustainability and efficiency.
15. Metrolink Matters Blog launched in March 2018, providing the latest news and information to passengers and stakeholders.
16. Ticket Web Portal launched in April 2018, allowing passengers to purchase one-way tickets online and print them at home.
17. New CEO Stephanie Wiggins joined Metrolink in January 2019, bringing over 24 years of experience and a strategic vision to enhance the customer experience.
18. AEDs Installation on all Metrolink trains in February 2019 ensured passengers have access to life-saving technology in case of emergencies.

Manchester Metrolink: A British Success Story

Manchester Metrolink has transformed public transportation in Greater Manchester, England. Let's explore its journey.

19. Manchester Metrolink was created by converting two British Rail lines serving the suburbs of Manchester.
20. Initial Operation began on April 6, 1992, with a three-day fare-free introduction, connecting 16 stations along 14 miles of track.
21. Ridership during its initial three-day introduction saw over 180,000 passengers, and by Labor Day, the one-millionth passenger boarded the system.
22. Expansion included service to Lambert Airport in 1994 and another station at Lambert Airport in 1998, enhancing regional connectivity.
23. St. Clair MetroLink Extension opened in 2001, serving eight new stations from East St. Louis to Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, IL.
24. Cross County MetroLink Extension opened in 2006, expanding service into mid-St. Louis County from Forest Park, serving nine new stations and eight miles into the heart of the region.

Historical Context and Development

Understanding the historical context of Manchester Metrolink provides insight into its development and success.

25. MetroBus Service in St. Louis has been operating for over 50 years, with significant expansions and improvements over the years, including new transfer centers and parking facilities.
26. Bi-State Development Agency (BSDA) hired its first female bus operators in the 1960s and established an outstanding record as an equal opportunity employer by hiring many women and African-Americans.
27. Acquisition of Private Transit Companies by BSDA in 1963 saw the acquisition of 15 struggling private transit companies, operated as a coordinated single system.
28. Streetcar Line Retirement saw the last remaining streetcar line, the Hodiamont line, retired in 1966, with its right-of-way paved over and replaced with bus service.
29. System Length of Manchester Metrolink’s initial network was 19.2 miles (30.9 km), which has since expanded to 64 miles (103 km) with 99 stops across eight lines.
30. Ownership and Operation of Manchester Metrolink is by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and operated under contract by a Keolis/Amey consortium.

Fleet and Service Patterns

The fleet and service patterns of Metrolink ensure efficient and reliable transportation for passengers.

31. Fleet Size consists of 147 high-floor Bombardier M5000 light rail vehicles, ensuring efficient and reliable service across the network.
32. Service Frequency operates with a core service pattern that includes one route to every terminus at a 12-minute frequency during all operating times, except Sundays when it operates at a 15-minute frequency.
33. Enhanced Service Pattern includes additional services up to Bury, Altrincham, Etihad Campus, Shaw and Crompton, East Didsbury, and MediaCityUK, catering to higher demand areas.
34. Historical Context of a light rail system in Manchester emerged from the failure of the 1970s Picc-Vic tunnel scheme to obtain central government funding. A light-rail scheme was proposed in 1982 as the least expensive rail-based transport solution for Manchester city centre.
35. Government Approval for the Metrolink project was granted in 1988, paving the way for its construction and operation.
36. Initial Fleet consisted of 26 AnsaldoBreda T-68 light rail vehicles, procured to operate the 19.2-mile (30.9 km) network.
37. Construction Cost of the initial Metrolink network was £145 million (equivalent to £379 million in 2023), demonstrating significant investment in regional infrastructure.

Expansions and Future Plans

Metrolink's expansions and future plans highlight its commitment to improving regional connectivity.

38. Phase 2 Expansion saw the Metrolink network extended westwards to Eccles along the new 4-mile (6.4 km) Eccles Line, increasing the total route length to 24 miles (39 km).
39. Eccles Line Inauguration by Prime Minister Tony Blair on December 6, 1999, marked a significant milestone in the network’s expansion.
40. Broadway–Eccles Section of the Eccles Line opened on July 21, 2000, with the complete line officially opened by Princess Anne on January 9, 2001.
41. Current Network now serves Didsbury, Ashton-under-Lyne, Oldham, Rochdale, MediaCityUK, and Manchester Airport, among other destinations, with a total system length of 97 km and 99 stops.
42. Future Plans include tram-train lines to Stockport and other places in Greater Manchester, further enhancing connectivity within the region.

Ridership and Operational Efficiency

Metrolink's ridership and operational efficiency demonstrate its importance in regional transportation.

43. Daily Ridership of Manchester Metrolink is approximately 52,000 passengers, making it a vital part of Greater Manchester’s transportation network.
44. Ownership Change saw Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), previously known as the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE), now owning and operating Metrolink.
45. Operator Change has Metrolink operated under contract by a Keolis/Amey consortium, ensuring efficient and reliable service across the network.
46. System Length Comparison shows Manchester Metrolink as the most extensive light rail system in the United Kingdom, with a network length of 64 miles (103 km).
47. Financial Year 2023/24 saw 42 million passenger journeys made on Manchester Metrolink, demonstrating its continued popularity and importance.
48. Operational Efficiency is maintained with a fleet of 147 high-floor Bombardier M5000 light rail vehicles, ensuring efficient service across all routes.
49. Service Patterns include two types: the core service pattern, which includes one route to every terminus at a 12-minute frequency, and the enhanced service pattern, which includes additional services up to Bury, Altrincham, Etihad Campus, Shaw and Crompton, East Didsbury, and MediaCityUK.
50. Innovations and Expansions have continuously improved Metrolink, including mobile ticketing, new lines like the Perris Valley Line, and AEDs on all trains, ensuring a safe and efficient travel experience for passengers.

Metrolink's Impact on Urban Mobility

Metrolink has transformed urban travel in Southern California and Greater Manchester. From its humble beginnings in 1992, it now boasts extensive networks, serving thousands daily. Key milestones like the introduction of mobile ticketing, the Rail 2 Rail program, and the addition of the Perris Valley Line highlight its commitment to innovation and convenience. Environmental initiatives, such as the Tier 4 locomotive, show a dedication to sustainability. In Manchester, Metrolink's growth from a 19.2-mile network to 64 miles with 99 stops underscores its importance. Future plans, including tram-train lines, promise even better connectivity. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and expansion, Metrolink continues to be a vital part of regional transportation, enhancing the quality of life for millions. Its journey reflects a blend of history, progress, and a vision for the future, making it a cornerstone of urban mobility.