Metrolink honored for Tier 4 locomotive purchase

California's South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) has presented its model community achievement award to Metrolink for its purchase of 40 locomotives that comply with the Environmental Protection Agency's Tier 4 emissions standard.

The new units reduce emissions by 85 percent and provide 57 percent more horsepower compared to older locomotives, Metrolink officials said in a press release.

The Southern California commuter railroad received the award at the 30th Annual Clean Air Awards at the LA Grand Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

Metrolink is the first U.S. passenger-rail service to operate Tier 4 locomotives, according to the railroad.

The locomotives cost $280 million and were partially funded with a  $110 million grant from SCAQMD's Carl Moyer Memorial Air Quality Standards Attainment Program. California provided $132 million, while the federal government allocated $21 million toward the acquisition.

Local funding sources covered the remaining $17 million.