Metrolink reviews 2011 accomplishments

Yesterday, Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink) officials announced the agency’s accomplishments for 2011, which they described as a “year of growth, innovation and safety leadership” for Metrolink.

“Moving into 2012, Metrolink is prepared to play a more prominent role in meeting southern California’s mobility needs by providing affordable transportation options that are safe, reliable and convenient,” said Metrolink Chairman Richard Katz in a prepared statement.

Following is a list of the agency’s 2011 accomplishments.

Metrolink started the year with new rail cars equipped with technology that diverts energy away from riders in the event of an accident.

In March, Metrolink announced a safety partnership with the University of Southern California’s Viterbi School of Engineering to develop a new safety-training curriculum — the first of its kind in the nation, according to the agency — to teach the agency’s approach to safety leadership.

In May, Metrolink added 16 new trains, including pilot late-night service and express trains on the Antelope Valley and San Bernardino lines.

In June, the board approved a Metrolink budget that included 14 percent more train service and safety additions without increasing fares.

In August, Metrolink's plans to implement positive train control ahead of the federal mandate received a boost when the agency received $46.3 million dollars in funds to support the installation of the new rail safety technology. Metrolink expects to be the first commuter-rail agency in the country to use the technology.

In September, the agency launched new “quiet cars” on weekday trains across the system.

The year’s worth of actions resulted in a 6 percent increase in Metrolink ridership during 2011, Metrolink officials said.