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2 clusters · 5 sources · 4 days · First seen · Last updated

Metrolink fare increases in Southern California

Overview

Metrolink, the Southern California regional commuter rail service, has implemented its first system-wide fare increase in 13 years. Effective October 5, the adjustments include a 27% increase for weekday SoCal Day Passes, rising from $15 to $19, and a 20% increase for weekend and holiday passes. One-way ticket prices have risen by an average of approximately 14%.

Metrolink Chief Executive Darren Kettle stated the changes are necessary to address rising operating and maintenance costs, reduced state and federal funding, and a failure to recover pre-pandemic ridership levels. The agency noted that nearly 80% of one-way fare increases are less than $1, and existing discount programs for seniors, students, veterans, and low-income riders remain active.

The decision has drawn criticism regarding transparency and the financial strain on commuters. State Senator Dave Cortese cautioned that such increases could be risky, warning of a potential ‘death spiral’ if higher costs lead to further drops in ridership.

Entities

Metrolink · Darren Kettle · Los Angeles · L.A. Metro · Dave Cortese

Timeline

  1. [BUSINESS] 3 sources
    Metrolink implements first fare increase in 13 years

    Metrolink has raised Southern California commuter rail fares by an average of 14%, its first increase in 13 years, citing rising costs and lower post-pandemic ridership.

  2. [BUSINESS] 3 sources
    Metrolink implements first system-wide fare hike in 13 years

    Metrolink is raising commuter rail fares in Southern California by up to 27%, marking the first system-wide increase in 13 years due to rising costs and declining government funding.

Sources

dailypilot.com · epochtimes.com · esnoticiatdf.com · singtaousa.com · ttownmedia.com