Metrolink Reaffirms Commitment to Improving Air Quality with Free Rides on California Clean Air Day

Metrolink Reaffirms Commitment to Improving Air Quality with Free Rides on California Clean Air Day

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LOS ANGELES - To commemorate California Clean Air Daythis Wednesday, Oct. 2, Metrolink is offering free rides across its entire system to help Southern Californians reduce their carbon footprints. Getting cars off the road is one of the most effective ways to combat the region's notorious air-quality issues. Providing free fares incentivizes drivers to explore greener transportation options and underscores Metrolink's ongoing commitment to sustainability.

"We are proud to participate in this statewide initiative and offer free rides to encourage others to join us in taking steps that improve our region's air quality," Metrolink Board Chair, South Coast AQMDBoard Member and City of Highland Mayor Pro Tem Larry McCallon said. "Our commitment to a more sustainable future is reflected in our use of Tier 4 locomotives and renewable fuel, which contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment. By raising awareness and inspiring collective action to tackle climate challenges, we aim to make a lasting impact on our communities and planet."

California Clean Air Day is one of three Metrolink free-ride days throughout the year. No ticket is required for people to ride Metrolink those days. Passengers can simply board any Metrolink or Arrow train from any station to enjoy a free, convenient and eco-friendly way to travel throughout the region.

In addition to hopping aboard the six-county system for free on Oct. 2, Southern Californians are encouraged to take the clean air pledgeand register their supportfor Metrolink's ongoing campaign to purchase additional Tier 4 locomotives. These rail vehicles comply with the latest Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions standards, cutting particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 85% compared to earlier models.

In 2023, Metrolink set a new post-pandemic ridership record of 26,556 boardings on California Clean Air Day.

This year, multiple local transit agencies - including LA Metrobus and rail lines, Ventura County Transportation Commission(VCTC) buses, Orange County Transportation Authority(OCTA) buses and San Bernardino County Transportation Authority commuter services (Omnitrans, Victor Valley Transit Authority, Mountain Transit, Basin Transit, and Needles Area Transit) - are also offering free rides on Oct. 2.

Metrolink is deeply committed to delivering sustainable transit solutions for Southern California. The agency currently operates 40 F-125 Tier 4 locomotives, the cleanest diesel locomotives in the nation, and in 2022, Metrolink became the first U.S. passenger train service to power its entire locomotive fleet with renewable fuelmade from recycled natural fats and vegetable oils. Since transitioning to this fossil-fuel-free alternative, Metrolink has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 60%. Looking ahead, Metrolink will soon introduce North America's first operational Zero-Emission Multiple Unit (ZEMU) rail vehicle on the Arrow service, connecting San Bernardino and Redlands. The ZEMU will use hybrid hydrogen fuel cells and battery technology, offering an even cleaner transit solution for the community.

For more information about Metrolink's sustainability initiatives and details on how to participate in California Clean Air Day, visit metrolinktrains.com/cleanairday.

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For images of Metrolink Tier 4 locomotives, click here