Train Riders' Association of California

On Friday, December 11, the Metrolink Board of Directors deferred action on choosing service cuts or fare hikes. This comes four months after the commuter rail system already implemented fare increases. We would like to thank all who contacted Metrolink to express their displeasure and provide suggestions! However, the Board will make a decision on the matter early next year, time in which staff will review other alternatives.

Those who support a fare increase, such as The Transit Coalition, say that service cuts will rip apart the possible trip combinations riders can make, making the service less useful. Neither option is ideal, especially in a recession, but after years of neglecting transit that is the situation we find ourselves in.

Please help us preserve service by voicing your concerns to Metrolink! Write your concerns and suggestions about possible Metrolink fare increases or service cuts to metrolinkfares@scrra.net. You can also fax them to the attention of Metrolink Fares at (213) 452-0452. You can read a sample letter.

On March 9th the eastbound Sunset Limited began leaving Los Angles at 2:30 pm , eight hours earlier than previously. On the same day the westbound train began arriving in Los Angeles at 10:10 am, several [seven] hours later than previously. (Schedules in the eastern part of the country did not change.)

To successfully advance the train departure times in this manner would require the concomitant change of certain bus schedules in order to ensure that connecting patrons can transfer to the Sunset. TRAC has made its concerns and suggestions known to Amtrak.

The new schedule for the Sunset Limited can be found at: http://www.amtrak.com/timetable/mar-apr05/P01.pdf