advertisement

---

Amtrak and the Southern California Regional Rail Authority recently signed a memorandum of understanding calling for Amtrak to provide Metrolink train and engine crews on all seven of the agency’s Los Angeles-area lines.

The parties expect to reach a final agreement by year’s end. SCRRA and Amtrak would sign a four-year contract — set to take effect on July 1, 2010 — with options for two three-year extensions.

Amtrak currently operates intercity trains over four of Metrolink’s seven lines. The national intercity passenger railroad was the original operator of Metrolink trains from 1992 to 2005.

Within the next two weeks, Amtrak will begin the work required to complete mobilization and assume operations. Amtrak will work closely with SCRRA, Metrolink, and current operator Connex Railroad L.L.C. and its employees during the coming months to ensure a smooth transition, according to a prepared statement.