PERRIS – (INT) – It's been years and millions of dollars in the planning and finally trains are rolling on Metrolink's Perris Valley extension.

Train 701 rolled out of the new South Perris station early Monday bound for downtown Riverside with a few dozen commuters. All were eager to switch their freeway commute from the 215 freeway to the rails.

Last week, Metrolink offered an inaugural trip for local dignitaries and stakeholders.

The $248 million project has taken three years to complete. It extends the 91 line from Riverside to its termination at the South Perris station.

It’s Metrolink’s first new line in 22-years.

Nine miles of new track has been added. The remainder of the 24-mile line is shared on a single track with BNSF freight traffic.

Metrolink has added Positive Train Control to the Perris Valley Line to automatically stop trains to prevent collisions.

There will be three round trips daily Monday-Friday between Perris and Riverside.

Story Date: June 13, 2016