Metrolink marks 25th anniversary

Metrolink on Oct. 21 marked its 25th anniversary.

The Southern California commuter railroad operates a 538-route-mile system that travels through six counties, including Los Angeles. The system serves 400 million passengers each year.

"For 25 years, Metrolink has eased our commutes, connected our communities, and helped bring Southern Californians closer together," said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti in a press release. "Now, it's time for us to build on the progress of the last generation — with a new era of bold investment that will bring a wealth of new transportation options to our region."

Metrolink was the first U.S. commuter-rail agency to install and operate positive train control during regular service on all hosted lines. Metrolink also was the first commuter railroad in the nation to purchase new locomotives that meet the Environmental Protection Agency's Tier 4 emission standards.

Earlier this month, Metrolink launched its first Tier 4-compliant locomotive on its San Bernardino Line.