Survey: Metrolink riders likely to return once stay-at-home orders are lifted

Metrolink yesterday released the results of a rider survey that will help inform the agency’s service recovery plan from the COVID-19 pandemic as California's stay-at-home orders are lifted.

The online survey sought to understand the motivations of current riders and those who stopped riding the train, as well as future service expectations.

More than 11,000 riders throughout Metrolink’s six-county Southern California service area responded to the survey.

Of those continuing to ride during the pandemic, 71 percent described themselves as essential workers, with 39 percent indicating they work in the health-care industry. Another 14 percent indicated they work in transportation and logistics, Metrolink officials said in a press release.

Of riders who haven't been riding during stay-at-home orders, 81 percent said they are likely to return to Metrolink after the orders are lifted. 

All riders surveyed agree that enhanced cleanliness and social distancing measures are priority considerations once stay-at-home-orders are lifted, agency officials said.

Metrolink’s daily ridership has stabilized at around 10 percent of its ridership levels a year ago.

Metrolink will present a recovery plan with short-, medium- and long-term recommendations to its board later this month. 

To view the survey results, click here.