The Metrolink Board of Directors voted to offer free train rides for residents in support of Earth Day to encourage more people to leave their cars at home and minimize their environmental footprint, officials said.

Earth Day is on Monday, April 22, 2019, and residents can ride the train free all day with no ticket required, according to officials.

“As the largest commuter rail operator in the state and the second largest public transportation operator in the region based on passenger miles, Metrolink is a critical component to a sustainable Southern California,” said Metrolink Board Chairman Brian Humphrey. “Approximately 85 percent of our riders have an automobile, but choose to take the train. Therefore, Metrolink riders are reducing congestion and associated emissions by taking the train every day.”

For decades, the region has struggled with the effect of a growing number of vehicles driven on a fixed-capacity freeway system resulting in choking smog and slower commutes.

The Los Angeles, Orange County and Inland Empire regions are consistently recognized as having the country’s worst air quality.

“Offering free rides is a way for Metrolink to attract new riders wanting to minimize their environmental impact and make a difference on Earth Day,” said Metrolink CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “We are asking drivers to pledge to park their cars on Earth Day and enjoy the stress-free commute so much they become repeat Metrolink riders.”

If 1,000 people gave up their cars and rode Metrolink on Earth Day, they would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 23,472 pounds, which is the equivalent of the carbon sequestered by a 12-acre forest, the size of 10 football fields, according to Metrolink officials.

Ed. Note: This information was provided to KHTS by Metrolink

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