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METROLINK LAUNCHES NEW ARROW SERVICE

Metrolink riders in the Inland Empire can use the new Arrow passenger rail service to travel between the cities of San Bernardino and Redlands. The Arrow service adds four train stations in the two cities and introduces brand new Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains to Metrolink’s cleaner-operating fleet. 

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New service extends Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line to Redlands, adding four new stations and extending daily express trains

LOS ANGELES – Metrolink riders in the Inland Empire can use the new Arrow passenger rail service to travel between the cities of San Bernardino and Redlands. The Arrow service adds four train stations in the two cities and introduces brand new Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains to Metrolink’s cleaner-operating fleet. 

 Planned and constructed by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), Arrow will initially operate up to 42 weekday trains between 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m., with service also available on Saturdays and Sundays. Connections between Arrow trains and Metrolink San Bernardino Line trains are available seven days a week at the San Bernardino-Downtown Station. There are also connections to Metrolink’s Inland Empire-Orange County Line.  

 “It’s an exciting day for Metrolink and our partners at SBCTA as we take another step toward greater regional train travel throughout Southern California,” Metrolink Board Chairman Ara Najarian said. “Metrolink continues to be a pioneer in environmentally responsible, safe and efficient travel.” 

 The two San Bernardino Line Express trains will also be extended to the Redlands-Downtown Station connecting Redlands to Los Angeles Union Station. 

 “We are thrilled to open the highly anticipated new Arrow service for our riders in Redlands and San Bernardino,” Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle said. “The Arrow service adds nine miles of new track, giving riders more options for cleaner, efficient travel in the area, connecting to Los Angeles, Orange County and beyond.” 

 The new DMU trains being used for the Arrow service feature a sleek, modern design and are powered by lower-emission diesel engines for a quieter and more energy-efficient ride. Other amenities include level boarding at the station platforms, capacity for 120 passengers, space for up to eight wheelchairs, storage hooks for up to 12 bicycles and USB chargers at most seats.  

 “The launch of Arrow is monumental for both San Bernardino County and the Southern California region,” Metrolink Board Vice-Chair and SBCTA Board Member Larry McCallon said. “The effort of SBCTA and Metrolink to complete a project of this magnitude is tremendous. By extending passenger rail service to Redlands with new, modern and eco-friendly trains, the agencies are fulfilling commitments to not only provide Southern California residents with greater regional rail connectivity, but also meet California’s aggressive climate-improvement goals.” 

 Arrow trains serve the existing San Bernardino-Downtown Station, 140 S. E St., San Bernardino, as well as four new stations: San Bernardino-Tippecanoe Station, 1498 S. Tippecanoe Ave., San Bernardino; Redlands-Esri Station, 601 New York St., Redlands; Redlands-Downtown Station, 351 North Orange St., Redlands; and Redlands-University Station at the University of Redlands, 1100 East Park Ave., Redlands. 

 For more information on the Arrow Line visit www.metrolinktrains/arrow

Source: Metrolink

News

Tensions Rise Between Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association and LA Metro Over Sepulveda Pass Transit Project

“Disputes continue between Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association and LA Metro over Sepulveda Pass transit project, with tensions on the rise.”

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city near mountain during golden hour
A proposed aerial monorail system connecting Sepulveda Pass, with lush green hillsides and a bustling city skyline in the background
Photo by Roberto Nickson on Pexels.com

The ongoing dispute between the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association (SOHA) and LA Metro regarding a proposed mass transit project through the Sepulveda Pass has reached new heights. Recent exchanges of letters and differing opinions have intensified tensions, raising concerns over costs, environmental impacts, and the choice between an aerial monorail or underground rail system.

Metro CEO’s Response:
In response to SOHA’s information requests, Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins stated that most of the questions had already been publicly addressed and accused the association of basing their remaining queries on misinformation.

SOHA’s Demands and Threat:
Disapproving of tunneling for a subway due to potential hillside home damage, SOHA demanded cost estimates from Metro. In their letter dated Feb. 28, they threatened to lobby against grant funding unless answers were provided by March 14.

Continued Tensions:
On March 18, Bob Anderson, SOHA’s vice president, expressed dissatisfaction with Wiggins’ responses, stating that her letter was weak and denied the claim of misinformation. Wiggins responded with short answers that referred to previously addressed community meetings and public input.

Metro’s Future Plans:
Metro is considering six alternatives for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project, including an aerial monorail or mostly underground heavy rail. However, the costs for each option will be released to the public with the Draft Environmental Impact Report in early spring 2025.

Budget and Funding Challenges:
Metro’s budget for the project is approximately $8 billion, primarily from Measure M. SOHA estimates the rail project to cost over $25 billion, favoring a more cost-efficient monorail option at around $8 billion. Metro aims to leverage Measure M funds to attract additional local, state, and federal dollars.

Upcoming Steps:
Once the DEIR is released, Metro will extend the comment period to 60 days, though SOHA had requested 90 days. Despite court requirements for a 60-day review period, Metro may hold additional community meetings following the official review period.


The clash between SOHA and Metro intensifies, highlighting the challenges involved in developing a mass transit project through the Sepulveda Pass. As cost estimates, environmental concerns, and differing preferences prevail, the future of this ambitious undertaking remains uncertain.

Source: Los Angeles Daily News and LA Metro

https://stmdailynews.com/sepulveda-pass-transit-debate-heavy-rail-vs-monorail-concerns/
https://www.dailynews.com/2024/03/18/metro-responds-to-sherman-oaks-homeowner-groups-criticism-of-sepulveda-pass-transit-plan/

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Lifestyle

All Aboard the #AmtrakTakeMeThere Adventure: Embracing Real Stories of Train Travel

Join #AmtrakTakeMeThere program for a chance to share real train travel stories and explore hidden American gems through your lens! Apply now!

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Amtrak’s latest endeavor, the #AmtrakTakeMeThere social media residency program, is a golden opportunity for budding creatives to explore the vast American landscapes through the lens of train travel. The initiative promises an enriching experience for those passionate about sharing authentic travel tales with their followers.

By offering complimentary round-trip journeys on Amtrak’s long-distance routes, coupled with a stipend of up to $1,000 for travel expenses, the program aims to showcase the beauty of train travel through the eyes of everyday adventurers rather than traditional influencers. This initiative serves as a refreshing take, focusing on genuine stories rather than glossy portrayals.

Emphasizing the essence of real experiences, Amtrak is seeking individuals who can narrate their travel escapades in a relatable manner. Whether you are a retiree, a parent, or a young creative spirit, this opportunity beckons to all who wish to share their unique journey through captivating writing, photography, video, and engaging social media content.

The application process, open to legal U.S. residents above 18 years, invites applicants to articulate their reasons for choosing train travel and why Amtrak resonates with them. This inclusive approach ensures a diverse pool of applicants, each bringing their distinct perspectives to the table.

The allure of Amtrak’s long-distance routes lies in the unseen American vistas they unveil, from the majestic Cascade Mountains to the serene Pacific Ocean vistas aboard the Coast Starlight. Moreover, the allure of the California Zephyr promises a journey through the Rockies and Sierra Nevada mountains, offering breathtaking scenery that captivates the soul.

As applications flood in until the stroke of midnight on January 31, the anticipation builds to see who will be selected for this enchanting expedition. With a promise of authentic storytelling and a glimpse into the heart of train travel, the #AmtrakTakeMeThere program is poised to redefine travel narratives, one social media post at a time.

https://www.glendalestar.com/business/article_a50636de-dc09-11ee-acde-1383c283add0.html

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City

The Battle Over Intercity Rail: A Political Showdown in Arizona

Arizona’s political divide over intercity rail: GOP opposes, Dems advocate for sustainable transit solutions.

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passenger train at a train station at sunset
Photo by Maisy Vi on Pexels.com

Republican lawmakers in Arizona are taking a firm stance against the development of intercity rail, particularly a commuter rail between Phoenix and Tucson. Their recent move to impose stringent conditions on the state Department of Transportation, including barring the acceptance of federal funds for commuter rail, has sparked controversy and division along party lines.

Senator Jake Hoffman, a vocal opponent of the commuter rail project, argues that investing in what he deems as outdated technology would be a waste of money, citing low ridership numbers on existing light rail systems. He insists that the focus should be on enhancing road infrastructure like the I-10 instead.

On the other side, Governor Katie Hobbs and Democratic lawmakers are advocating for sustainable transportation solutions, including the potential revival of Amtrak service between Phoenix and Tucson. They emphasize the importance of environmental considerations, clean air for future generations, and reducing carbon emissions.

The clash between the two parties reflects a larger debate on transportation priorities and environmental concerns. While Republicans stress individual freedom and the efficiency of personal automobiles, Democrats highlight the need for greener modes of transportation and addressing climate change.

As the legislative battle continues, the fate of intercity rail in Arizona hangs in the balance. The decision on whether to proceed with the project will have far-reaching implications for the state’s transportation infrastructure and environmental policies. Stay tuned as the Senate deliberates on this contentious issue.

https://tucson.com/news/local/government-politics/tucson-phoenix-commuter-train-jake-hoffman/article_32e22568-c9f3-11ee-a111-071dc300ee63.html

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