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Providing 81.3 million passenger trips and exceeding a 95 percent on-time performance goal were among Metra's key accomplishments in 2012, according to a recent report by Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Alex Clifford.

Clifford reported the accomplishments last week in a presentation to Metra's board, according to the commuter railroad's website.

Among other 2012 highlights: Metra experienced 84 fewer mechanical delays compared with 2011; completed a $60 million grade separation at Belmont Road on the BNSF line and $21 million expansion on the Kensington Interlocker on the Metra Electric District; resurfaced 50 miles of track; and installed or replaced 45,000 ies, 900 switch ties, 1,300 linear feet of curve worn rail, 500 welds to eliminate joints and 14 signals.

Clifford's presentation also highlighted other accomplishments related to major planning, communications, marketing, web and digital, employee training and development, government and community affairs, and safety.

Among the safety achievements, Metra reduced the employee workplace injury rate to its lowest level in more than 10 years.

Meanwhile, Metra's board plans to launch a new committee structure in March to increase board oversight and agency transparency. Four new committees were established: audit and finance; capital oversight; employment practices; and executive issues related to corporate governance, compliance, strategic planning, legislative affairs and policy.