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Metrolink’s SCORE Program: A Path Towards a Sustainable Future for Southern California’s Rail System

Metrolink’s SCORE program: $10 billion initiative to improve SoCal’s rail system for 2028 Olympics with zero-emissions focus. Enhancing safety and connectivity.

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Metrolink’s SCORE program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to revolutionize Southern California’s rail system in preparation for the highly anticipated 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. With a staggering budget of $10 billion, this ambitious program encompasses a wide range of upgrades, including enhancements to grade crossings, stations, signals, tracks, and other essential components.

Accelerating Towards a Zero-Emissions Future:
One of the paramount goals of the SCORE program is to expedite progress towards Metrolink’s vision of a zero-emissions future. As the population of Southern California continues to soar, it is crucial to bolster transportation infrastructure to meet the rising demand while concurrently reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As a consequence of these improvements, certain cities will become eligible to apply for quiet zones, further enhancing residents’ quality of life.

Construction Projects and Safety Enhancement:
Scheduled to commence in 2023, the construction projects under the SCORE program aim to complete all improvements prior to the commencement of the 2028 Olympic Games. Safety enhancements are at the forefront of this endeavor, ensuring that commuters and travelers can rely on a safer and more efficient rail system. Additionally, both peak and off-peak rail services will be expanded, granting improved access to job centers and affordable housing, subsequently fostering economic development and providing enhanced opportunities for individuals across the region.

Connectivity and Economic Growth:
An exceptional advantage offered by the SCORE program is the elevated connectivity it will afford other rail providers. Seamlessly integrating with different modes of transportation will enhance the overall travel experience, allowing commuters to effortlessly reach their intended destinations. This heightened connectivity will not only facilitate economic growth but also generate employment prospects and attract further investment to the area, promoting regional prosperity.

Promoting a Healthier Environment:
The SCORE program not only concentrates on transportation improvements but also actively contributes to creating a healthier environment. By transitioning towards zero-emission technology, emissions will be significantly reduced, leading to cleaner air for all Southern California residents. This eco-conscious approach will have long-term benefits for the region’s overall well-being and quality of life.

Assessing the Impact:
The Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) conducted a thorough study to evaluate the impact of the SCORE program. The findings indicate that the construction investments associated with the program will enhance the region’s appeal to millions of visitors expected for the 2028 Olympics while creating sustained prosperity for years beyond the Games.

Specific Projects and Their Objectives:
The SCORE program encompasses several significant projects tailored to address specific needs and improve the efficiency and safety of Metrolink’s rail system. Noteworthy projects include the Simi Valley Double Track, Burbank Junction Speed Improvements, Chatsworth Station Improvements, Marengo Siding Extension Project, El Monte Siding Extension Project, Rancho Cucamonga Siding Extension Project, and Serra Siding Extension Project.

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About the SCORE Program?


The SCORE program represents an indispensable stride towards revamping Southern California’s rail infrastructure to cater to the region’s burgeoning population and ambitious sustainability goals. Through safety enhancements, increased services, improved connectivity, and the generation of economic opportunities, the program will not only benefit commuters but also contribute to a brighter and healthier future for all residents. As the countdown to 2028 commences, the SCORE program sets the stage for an exceptional rail system that will endure as a legacy long after the Games conclude.

https://metrolinktrains.com/score

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism

About Metrolink

Metrolink (reporting mark SCAX) is a commuter rail system in Southern California, serving Los AngelesOrangeRiversideSan Bernardino, and Ventura counties, as well as to Oceanside in San Diego County.[8][9] The system consists of eight lines and 69 stations operating on 545.6 miles (878.1 km) of track.[7] Arrow is operated under a contract with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA).[6]

In 2023, the system had a ridership of 4,861,000, or about 17,100 per weekday as of the fourth quarter of 2023.

Metrolink connects with Los Angeles County’s Metro Rail and Metro Busway systems, San Diego County’s Coaster commuter rail and Sprinter hybrid rail services, and with Amtrak‘s Pacific SurflinerCoast StarlightSouthwest ChiefSunset Limited, and Texas Eagle inter-city rail services.[10] Metrolink owns several hundred miles of track; however, it also shares track with freight railroads.

The system, founded in 1991 as the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) and adopting “Metrolink” as its moniker,[11] started operation in 1992. Average weekday ridership was 42,928 as of 2017.[12] It is operated by Amtrak under contract with the SCRRA. (Wikipedia)

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The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge

https://stmdailynews.com/stm-daily-news-navigating-the-entertaining-pickleball-documentary-and-2-night-ufo-mysteries-unraveled/

https://stories-this-moment.castos.com

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  • Rod Washington

    Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art. View all posts

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Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art.

Community

Historic Landmark Status Boosts Push to Restore Iconic West Oakland Train Station

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Oakland


The 16th Street Train Station in West Oakland, a historic landmark that has stood as a silent witness to over a century of cultural and industrial evolution, is now one step closer to restoration. Recently listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the station’s new status has ignited hope and momentum for its revival. This milestone, celebrated by preservationists and community members alike, could be the key to unlocking the funding and support needed to breathe new life into this iconic structure.

A Moment of Celebration and Reflection

“I am ecstatic,” said Feleciai Favroth, treasurer of the Oakland Heritage Alliance, which spearheaded the station’s nomination for historic designation. “This could be the key to make the station a viable rehab project.” Favroth’s enthusiasm is shared by many who have long advocated for the station’s preservation, recognizing its profound historical and cultural significance.

The listing on the National Register of Historic Places not only honors the station’s legacy but also makes it eligible for a 20% federal income tax credit for restoration costs. Similar incentives have played a crucial role in reviving other Bay Area landmarks, such as Oakland’s Fox Theater and Richmond’s Ford Assembly Plant. “The bottom line of the tax credit is it just makes things much more financially feasible and attractive for developers,” said Kara Brunzell, an architectural historian who worked on the nomination.

A Daunting Financial Challenge

Despite this significant achievement, the road to restoration remains steep. The station requires an estimated $50 million for seismic retrofitting and restoration—a daunting sum that has stymied previous efforts to save the building. “Just because we’re on the registry doesn’t mean the station is saved,” Favroth cautioned. Over the decades, multiple owners have attempted to restore the station, but none have secured the necessary funding.

The current owner, City Ventures, has proposed a 77-unit townhome-style development called “Signal House” around the station site. However, the plan, under review since May 2023, does not include the station’s rehabilitation. City Ventures has hired OE Consulting to explore fundraising options for the station’s repairs. According to OE Consulting, the search is on for an “anchor funder”—a major donor willing to provide the initial funds to kickstart the restoration and allow the community to decide the station’s future use.

A Vision for the Future

The Oakland Heritage Alliance is now focused on securing funding for a feasibility study to explore the station’s potential. “You have to do something that’s financially viable because that’s the big thing nowadays with historical preservation. ‘Can the asset financially sustain itself?’” Favroth explained. Proposed ideas for the station’s reuse include an event venue, offices, a technology hub, or a business incubator.

Brunzell emphasized the station’s architectural and historical significance, comparing it to Grand Central Station in its grandeur and solidity. Designed in the Beaux Arts style by renowned architect Jarvis Hunt and opened in 1912, the station was a key hub for both local and long-distance trains during the heyday of rail travel. “You could come into the station from distant parts on the Southern Pacific, get off on the ground floor, walk upstairs, and get on a local streetcar to take you to your hotel. That was really important and unusual for the time,” Brunzell said.

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Honoring African American History

The 16th Street Train Station is also one of the first to be designated under a new category that recognizes the history of African Americans in California. For Favroth, the station holds deep personal significance. Like many African Americans, her family has a direct connection to the station. Her aunts passed through it when they migrated to Oakland from Louisiana in the 1940s during the Great Migration. “I wanted to be able to honor their history and their memory,” Favroth said. “And this station has a strong tie to our history.”

The station served as a gateway for thousands of Black families seeking new opportunities in the West, and its surrounding neighborhood became a vibrant center of African American culture, commerce, and activism. Restoring the station is not just about preserving a building—it’s about reclaiming a piece of history that reflects the resilience and contributions of the Black community.

A Community Effort

The push to restore the 16th Street Train Station is a testament to the power of community advocacy and collaboration. From preservationists and historians to local officials and developers, a diverse coalition is working to ensure the station’s future. While challenges remain, the historic designation has provided a critical boost, offering both recognition and financial incentives to support the restoration effort.

As the project moves forward, the focus will be on balancing historical preservation with modern needs, ensuring that the station becomes a sustainable and inclusive space for the community. For West Oakland, the restoration of the 16th Street Train Station represents more than just the revival of a building—it’s a chance to honor the past, inspire the present, and build a brighter future.

https://www.kqed.org/news/12024819/historic-landmark-status-boosts-push-restore-iconic-west-oakland-train-station

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/the-bridge

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Community

Celebrate Transit Equity Day: Ride Metrolink Free on February 4, 2025!

On February 4, 2025, Metrolink will offer free rides in celebration of Transit Equity Day, honoring Rosa Parks’ legacy and emphasizing public transportation’s role in community access and equity, while encouraging regional exploration.

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Transit Equity Day
Image: Metrolink

Transit Equity Day

Los Angeles – Mark your calendars! On February 4, 2025, Southern Californians will have the unique opportunity to ride Metrolink free of charge, as the region’s six-county passenger rail provider celebrates Transit Equity Day. This annual event honors the legacy of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks and underscores the essential role public transportation plays in fostering access and equity for all communities.

On this special day, riders can board at any of Metrolink’s 67 stations without needing a ticket and can travel systemwide, including the Arrow service. To further celebrate Transit Equity Day, numerous local transit carriers will also waive fares, providing additional options for those seeking to explore the region.

Transit Equity Day

A Statement of Purpose

Metrolink Board Chair and Orange Orange County Fourth District Supervisor Doug Chaffee expressed the significance of Transit Equity Day, stating, “This day honors Rosa Parks’ enduring legacy, while highlighting the vital role public transportation plays in ensuring people from all communities have access.” He continued, “When Metrolink introduced the largest service expansion in our history last fall, it was to create a more equitable system that works for all Southern Californians. Offering free rides on Transit Equity Day helps fulfill that promise.”

Exciting Changes in Service

In October 2023, Metrolink increased weekday service by nearly 23%, adding more midday and late-evening options for those needing to travel outside traditional work hours. Thanks to this expansion and recent improvements, Metrolink has seen a surge in ridership, setting multiple post-pandemic, single-day records. Moreover, a new San Bernardino Line schedule implemented on January 27 aims to enhance on-time performance along this high-volume corridor, allowing riders to experience efficient travel firsthand on Transit Equity Day.

A Commitment to Accessibility

Metrolink is not just about free rides on special occasions. The agency is dedicated to making public transit accessible to everyone year-round. In addition to offering three free-ride days each year, Metrolink provides everyday discounts for children, seniors, riders with disabilities, low-income riders, and active military members. For students, the Student Adventure Pass program allows K-12, college, and trade school students to ride free with a valid student ID, an initiative extended through June 30, 2025.

Metrolink ticketholders also enjoy free transfers to many connecting local transit providers, further enhancing accessibility across the region.

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Explore the Region

If you’re looking to discover new places, Metrolink has curated a special repository of destinations that are easily accessible from its stations. Check out these exciting travel options at metrolinktrains.com/explore and start planning your adventure on Transit Equity Day!

Join Metrolink, LA Metro, Omnitrans, the Orange County Transportation Authority, the Riverside County Transportation Commission, the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, the Ventura County Transportation Commission, and other agencies in taking part in this celebratory day of equitable access to public transportation.

Ride Free, Celebrate Equity!

Transit Equity Day is more than just a free ride; it’s a reminder of the importance of public transport in promoting equity, access, and community connection. We invite all Southern Californians to take advantage of this opportunity, explore the region, and honor the legacy of Rosa Parks. This February 4th, hop aboard Metrolink and experience the freedom of transit—at no cost!

Metrolink website: Travelers looking for inspiration can view Metrolink’s specially curated repository of destinations easily accessible from Metrolink stations at metrolinktrains.com/explore.

https://stmdailynews.com/groundbreaking-for-a-sustainable-future-la-metros-southeast-gateway-line-light-rail-project/

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Urbanism

Metrolink is Coming Soon: Ready for a New Era of Commuting in Santa Barbara and Goleta!

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Metrolink
Image: Metrolink

Exciting news is on the horizon for commuters in the Santa Barbara and Goleta area! After years of planning and anticipation, the Metrolink commuter train service is set to launch this fall, providing a new, efficient way to travel between Ventura County and Santa Barbara County. With the increasing focus on alternative transportation options, this project represents a significant step forward for our communities and environment.

Metrolink is Getting Ready for a New Era of Commuting in Santa Barbara and Goleta

The Journey Begins

The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) is at the forefront of this initiative, fulfilling a promise made to voters who approved a funding tax aimed at both widening the freeway and exploring innovative transportation alternatives. Originally considered along with Amtrak, the decision to partner with Metrolink emerged, as their schedules proved more conducive to the commuter needs of the area.

Metrolink’s plan is to operate a streamlined route starting from Moorpark, with stops in our beautiful Santa Barbara and Goleta, avoiding the timing conflicts that hampered the Amtrak discussions. Aaron Bonfilio, SBCAG’s Director of Multimodal Programs, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, saying, “working with them to develop this agreement is critical to the next step. And that’s what this is all about.”

A Convenient Ride

Imagine leaving Oxnard at a crisp 7 a.m. and arriving in Santa Barbara by 7:51 a.m., or reaching Goleta shortly after at 8:03 a.m. The convenience of this service is striking, with additional afternoon departures that will surely benefit daily commuters. Goleta Mayor Paula Perotte expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Oh, that’s totally reasonable,” highlighting the strategic scheduling designed to meet local needs.

Riders can look forward to a brand new train depot in Goleta, currently under construction, with daily bus connections to enhance accessibility. Bonfilio mentioned the multiple options available through the Coastal Express, providing around 20 trips in both directions each morning and afternoon.

An Affordable and Productive Commute

The introductory round-trip fare of just $10, or $5 in each direction, is a refreshing incentive intended to encourage residents to leave their cars behind. It’s not only planet-friendly but wallet-friendly, too! For those opting to work during their commute, Mayor Perotte noted that riding the train may even allow workers to log their commute time since they can be productive on their laptops while on board.

Initial projections show around 200 daily riders, and with a capacity for over 500, there’s plenty of room for growth. “I think once people get used to riding the train, they’re going to love it,” said Mayor Perotte, sharing her vision of creating a new commuting habit that moves people away from sitting in traffic.

Ready to Roll

SBCAG is currently finalizing agreements to ensure everything is in place before the fall launch, paving the way for an exciting new chapter in commuting for Santa Barbara and Goleta residents. This initiative not only represents a practical solution to transportation challenges but also offers a glimpse into a future where public transit continues to evolve.

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In closing, let’s prepare to say goodbye to traffic woes and hello to the ease and joy of train travel. Get ready to hop on the Metrolink and enjoy the ride into a more connected and sustainable future! 🚆✨

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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