Cash-strapped Metrolink slashes vital weekday trains — as fare hikes loom

Commuters across Southern California are about to feel it on the tracks.

Metrolink is extending its weekday service cuts indefinitely, dialing back trains across most of its network as the agency grapples with a mounting budget crisis and ongoing equipment issues, according to Secret Los Angeles.

The reductions — which amount to a roughly 20% cut in service — will remain in place on six of Metrolink’s seven lines.

The changes hit weekday riders the hardest, with fewer trains and longer gaps between departures across major corridors serving Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and connections into San Diego County.

What’s behind the cuts?

The service reduction were first rolled out March 23 as a temporary fix after repeated mechanical issues sidelined parts of Metrolink’s newer locomotive fleet — particularly its F-125 engines.

Persistent supply chain delays and parts shortages have slowed repairs, keeping multiple trains out of service longer than expected and limiting the number of trains available for daily run.

At the same time, the financial picture has worsened.

Metrolink is facing an estimated $15 million annual gap tied to lagging ridership, which has yet to rebound to pre-pandemic levels.

Expected reductions in funding from regional partner agencies add another $10 million shortfall, pushing the budget pressue to nearly $30 million, according to UrbanizeLA.

No end date — and more changes possible

What was initially billed as a temporary disruption now has no clear finish line.

Metrolink says the reduced schedule will remain in place indefinitely, with additional service adjustments still on the table as the agency works to stabilize operations.

Fare hikes could also be coming.

Officials are evaluating a planned October fare increase as part of broader efforts to close the funding gap and shore up the system’s long-term finances.

For now, though, riders across the region are left with fewer options — and a longer wait — as Southern California’s commuter rail system tries to get back on track.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters