SOUTHLAND – (INT) - Metrolink cut its train service 30% beginning Thursday in response to a sharp reduction in ridership because of the coronavirus pandemic.

In a memo advising Metrolink's board of directors of the service reductions, CEO Stephanie Wiggins said ridership has declined 81% compared to the same period one year ago

On Friday, March 20, there were 7,139 riders using the rail service compared to 37,004 on the same day last year, according to the email.

Wiggins said it was the plummeting ridership, coupled with $5.9 million in "fuel hedging margin calls" since Feb. 25, that prompted her decision, and Metrolink's board chairman was in agreement.

Margin calls are requests by Metrolink's broker to deposit additional funds into the agency's investment account, Metrolink spokeswoman Sherita Coffelt said via email. Rider fares comprise 34.3% of Metrolink's revenue, Coffelt said.

In Riverside County, the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) will begin running a slimmed-down version of service on par with its reduced Sunday schedule. The new schedule is expected to begin Sunday, April 5th and last an indefinite amount of time.

Story Date: April 20, 2020