Culture – Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC)

Metrolink’s Holiday Express Train Returns to Downtown Riverside

RCTC — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 19:00:25 +0000

The Point: Train returns on December 20 for a magical ride!

Every year the Metrolink Holiday Express Train brings joy and a one-of-a-kind experience that transforms an ordinary train ride into a festive wonderland featuring dazzling decorations, joyful carolers, and unforgettable appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. This holiday season, this magical train returns to Riverside County for an immersive seasonal experience on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

The Holiday Express Train features a 90-minute nonstop round-trip adventure departing from and returning to the Riverside-Downtown Metrolink Station. Before boarding, join RCTC, Metrolink, and partner organizations for festive fun. Enjoy pop-up booths with activities, giveaways, and holiday surprises. Guests are also encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to support the Miracles and Dreams Foundation in helping families in need during the holiday season.

Two Holiday Express Trains will depart from the Riverside-Downtown Metrolink Station on Saturday, December 20, 2025. Reservations are required for these trains, and tickets are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The first train leaves the station at 10:30 a.m. and the second at 1:30 p.m. Please see the full schedule of activities below:

	Riverside-Downtown Train #1	Riverside-Downtown Train #2
Date and time	December 20, 2025 @ 10:30 a.m.	December 20, 2025 @ 1:30 p.m.
Pre-event activities	8:30 a.m.	12:00 p.m.
Boarding	9:30 a.m.	12:30 p.m.
Departure	10:30 a.m.	1:30 p.m.
Return	12:00 p.m.	3:00 p.m.

For more information about Metrolink’s Holiday Express Train events, including ticketing, pre-event festivities and boarding information, please visit: metrolinktrains.com/holidaytrain

September is Rail Safety Month, Take the Pledge

RCTC — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 22:56:40 +0000

The Point: RCTC encourages you to take the Rail Safety Pledge

For more than 10 years, the Riverside County Transportation Commission has commemorated Rail Safety Month in September with our partner, California Operation Lifesaver, and our communities. With frequent freight and passenger trains traveling through Riverside County, RCTC actively promotes rail safety education through public outreach programs to increase rail safety awareness at schools, businesses, and communities – especially those near railroad tracks.

With California consistently leading the nation in rail-related fatalities, it’s important to know what to do near tracks whether you’re driving, biking, or traveling on foot. By following these general safety tips, you can stay safe around trains and tracks:

Remember that trains approach faster and stop slower than they appear! Never overestimate how safe you are.
Always look both ways before crossing tracks. Always stay alert and eliminate distractions.
Always cross at designated crossings. Pay attention to and obey warning signs and signals.
Never walk on tracks. It is illegal and highly dangerous.
Trains are big! They overhang tracks. Always stay at least 15 feet from the tracks.
Never stop your vehicle on the tracks. If you stall or get stuck, get all passengers out and then get help.
Trains always have the right-of-way, so get out of the way! Don’t speed to beat the train, just wait it out.

Rail safety is everyone’s responsibility. You can help do your part by taking RCTC’s Rail Safety Pledge to affirm your commitment to rail safety and be entered for a chance to win a rail safety gift basket with four round-trip Metrolink tickets, a $150 gift card, and exclusive Metrolink swag. Take the pledge at: rctc.org/railsafety

Rail safety presentations are also available to schools, businesses, and organizations in Riverside County. If you are interested in scheduling a rail safety presentation, please contact us by email at: RailSafetyEducation@rctc.org

Extend Your Summer with Metrolink

RCTC — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:42:35 +0000

The Point: Ride Metrolink free to destinations all over southern California

Call your friends or family – summer is almost over! Hop on a Metrolink train and get ready for a day filled with fun! Adventure awaits – let’s ride! With Metrolink, you can explore several southern California destinations near train stops.

If you’re a resident of Riverside and San Bernardino County, you can ride Metrolink anywhere in the system for free for up to 90 days with Experience Metrolink. Simply create a Metrolink account and an IE Commuter account using the same email, request your free tickets, and they’ll appear in your Metrolink app within three business days. Get started at iecommuter.org/ridefree.

Need inspiration for your next Metrolink trip, check out these destinations:

Olvera Street
LA Union Station
~8 minute walk
With its unique culture and history and fantastic dining options, Olvera Street is fun for the whole family right in the heart of LA!

Old Towne Orange
Orange Station
~13 minute walk
Voted OC’s favorite downtown! Hit the shops, visit an art gallery, or enjoy some delicious food & craft drinks.

River Street Ranch
San Juan Capistrano Station
~2 minute walk
Located in the Los Rios Historic District, River Street Ranch is a petting zoo where visitors (of all ages) can meet goats, chickens, and mini horses. It’s a charming stop for families or a relaxed weekend trip.

Mission San Juan Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano Station
~1 minute walk
Experience the beautiful architecture, relaxing gardens, and fascinating history of California’s seventh mission, founded over 200 years ago!

San Clemente Pier
San Clemente Station
~1 minute walk
Beat the California heat and kick back to the sound of waves crashing. Perfect for a beach picnic, seaside dining, and sunset chasing, San Clemente Pier has it all.

Summer’s Not Over Yet – Enjoy the Beach, Baseball Games, and More with Metrolink

RCTC — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 21:16:18 +0000

The Point: RCTC and Metrolink help you explore the new and familiar of southern California

School may be back in session, but summer’s not over! Whether you’re yearning for a trip to the beach to catch some waves or hoping to catch home runs at Angel Stadium, Riverside County residents are just a relaxing train ride away from fun destinations in southern California.

RCTC funds Metrolink programs and services through Measure A and various transit funding sources – making it possible for residents to travel with Metrolink to destinations throughout the region. Here are a few trip ideas to help you squeeze out some last-minute summer fun:

Oceanside & San Clemente

Want to kick back and soak up the sun? Oceanside and San Clemente are popular destinations for Metrolink riders and for good reason. The perfect year-round weather, laid back atmosphere, and sunny, sandy beaches offer the perfect escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Surfing, hiking, skateboarding, biking, whale watching, and a bounty of arts and culture await you at these southern California beach cities. Ride the wave – ahem, beach train, to the Oceanside or San Clemente stations, merely steps away from the sand.

Angels Express Fan Train

Take in America’s favorite pastime, eat a few hot dogs, and enjoy a traffic-less trip to (and from) a Los Angeles Angels home game this season with Metrolink’s popular Angels Express Fan Train! For just $10, Angels fans can take a round-trip ride from the Riverside – Downtown, La Sierra, Corona – North Main, and Corona – West Metrolink Stations to the Anaheim Station (ARTIC), next to Angel Stadium. View the full Angels Express game schedule for a complete list of dates and times.

Olvera Street

Stroll through historic Olvera Street and take in the sights and sounds (and food!) of one of the oldest streets in Los Angeles. The marketplace is a dreamy L.A. landmark that honors the customs and trades of early Mexican heritage. The long, narrow, and tree-lined market features historic structures, painted murals, cafes, and original street vendors. Olvera Street is located directly across from L.A. Union Station – making it a quick walk across the street once you get off the train.

Planning your next summer trip is easy. Use RCTC’s How to Ride guide for tips about schedules, buying tickets, and boarding the train. Metrolink also offers ticket promotions for families or solo riders, including:

$10 Weekend Day Pass – This pass lets you travel anywhere in the Metrolink system on Saturdays and Sundays for only $10. Purchase tickets with Metrolink’s mobile app or use the ticket machines and select “Weekend Day Pass” on the home screen.

Student Adventure Pass – The recently renewed Student Adventure Pass allows students (with a valid student ID) to ride Metrolink for free. Download the Metrolink mobile app to get started.

Kids Ride Free on Weekends – This promotion allows up to three children (17 years and younger) to ride free with a $10 paying adult. Children do not require a ticket and can board with a parent/guardian.

So, what are you waiting for? Ride Metrolink to your next adventure before summer slips away! For more information about train schedules and to purchase tickets, please visit metrolinktrains.com.

Construction Safety Week Celebrates a Decade of Promoting Safer Work Environments

RCTC — Tue, 07 May 2024 17:33:49 +0000

The Point: Safety event increases awareness for safer work habits and incident reductions

Throughout Riverside County, crews on projects such as the 71/91 Interchange in Corona and the Moreno Valley/March Field Station Improvements in Riverside continue to work diligently to deliver transportation solutions for our communities. As Construction Safety Week kicks off, we encourage commuters to stay alert, obey all posted construction signs, and proceed cautiously through all construction zones to help keep our workers safe. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Since it began in 2014, Construction Safety Week, the annual, week-long campaign to promote worker safety and wellness, has empowered construction crews to use their voices to raise concerns and promote best practices on job sites and workspaces nationwide. The initiative, which runs May 6 -10, is celebrating ten years of advocating for safer work environments.

This year’s theme is “Value Every Voice” and focuses on four themes:

Emphasizing personal ownership
Encouraging and welcoming new ideas
Embracing diverse voices
Strengthening a culture of safety

Crews install drainage at the Metrolink Moreno Valley/March Field station

Crew member works on support beam for the 71/91 Interchange Project

The initiative has partnered with OSHA to promote safer habits and prevent serious incidents on the worksite, such as falls – one of the leading causes of injuries to industry workers. During this week, job sites will engage in safety education and encourage participation by hosting stand-downs, toolbox talks, and safety demonstrations.

RCTC Acknowledges Female Leaders for Women’s History Month

RCTC — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 16:33:19 +0000

The Point: Talented women are leading the way in transportation and land conservation

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in our society. As an agency with a staff made up of predominately women, 56% to be exact, RCTC understands the value of women in the workplace. These talented individuals working at RCTC and for engineering, planning, and outreach firms, are transforming transportation and leading important conservation efforts in Riverside County.

Women comprised of only 8% of the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce in the 1970s. By 2019, that number had climbed to 27%. As more women enter the STEM fields, they can look to RCTC’s elected officials, executives, and project managers for inspiration.

Lake Elsinore Mayor Natasha Johnson is serving her third term as Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority’s Chair of the Board. As the managing agency of the RCA, RCTC is helping implement the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) to form a habitat reserve for 146 native plant and animal species. During Chair Johnson’s tenure, she has led the acquisition of 3,436 acres of land to support the region’s species and protect open space, navigated the RCA’s transition to new management under RCTC, and increased stakeholder engagement with the Board of Directors.

As the Executive Director of RCTC, Anne Mayer leads a staff of 74 and is responsible for RCTC’s delivery of transportation projects and programs that support the quality of life and economy of Riverside County. Combining her technical expertise as a Registered Civil Engineer with a commitment to public service, Mayer has served for nearly 40 years in the Inland Empire transportation profession. She is a graduate of Michigan State University.

Nisa Hester, Bechtel’s Project Delivery Manager for RCTC, has helped advance critical infrastructure projects that support Riverside County’s rapidly growing population. She leads a 20-member team of engineers and support staff for planning, design, and construction of highway and rail projects. During her 12 years with Bechtel, Hester helped deliver the I-15 Express Lanes Project and the Metrolink 91/Perris Valley Line.

This Women’s History Month, RCTC acknowledges the efforts of these exceptional women. They are blazing a trail for a new generation of talented women.

Historic Investment for Roads, Bridges, & Climate Resiliency in Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill

RCTC — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 17:17:46 +0000

The Point: Federal investment can help leverage local and state funding to deliver more transportation infrastructure improvements in Riverside County

Following significant debate and negotiation in Congress over the last several months, President Joe Biden signed the bipartisan $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in November to provide $550 billion in new infrastructure spending. After working closely with the California Congressional delegation to include language in the legislation that allows us to compete for funds, RCTC is prepared to apply for grants to make much-needed investments in our region’s transportation system.

The IIJA includes substantial funding for roads, bridges, electric vehicle infrastructure, rail-highway grade crossing improvements, climate resiliency, and carbon reduction.

“This new infrastructure bill may give Riverside County and our region the tools we need to improve and expand our transportation investments for the 21^st century,” said RCTC Chair Jan Harnik, who also is the Palm Desert Mayor Pro Tem. “RCTC eagerly awaits the opportunity to compete for these funds. We are ready!” she said.

In addition, the IIJA includes the five-year reauthorization of federal surface transportation legislation, which provides funding for roads, bridges, transportation safety, and freight programs. The IIJA makes the single largest investment in repairing and reconstructing bridges since the construction of the interstate highway system with a $40 billion bridge program. The bill also includes historic funding for public transit and passenger rail by providing nearly $70 billion for public transit, a 40% increase over current spending levels, and $66 billion for passenger rail, the largest investment in 50 years.

This is good news for RCTC and California. Based on data recently released by the U.S. Department of Transportation, California expects to receive billions of dollars in transportation infrastructure funding over the next five years:

Approximately $29.5 billion for highways and bridges – a roughly 44% average annual increase over current funding levels;
Approximately $179 million for highway safety traffic programs to reduce deaths and injuries from vehicle-related crashes – a 29% increase over current funding levels; and
Approximately $384 million to support the expansion of the electric vehicle charging network.

California will also be competitive for aviation, water, and energy infrastructure funding made available through the IIJA.

The IIJA will help RCTC leverage Measure A funds, the voter-approved half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements in Riverside County, to deliver transportation projects that connect our communities, support our economy, and offer mobility options that reduce traffic congestion, support clean air, and enhance the quality of living in the region.

The IIJA will also create opportunities for RCTC to advance regionally transformative projects such as the daily passenger rail service between Coachella Valley and Los Angeles to provide residents and tourists an alternative to traveling on Interstate 10, as well as next-generation transportation improvements identified in RCTC’s 2020 Commission-adopted Traffic Relief Plan.

Show Your Support for Daily Passenger Train Service Between Coachella Valley, L.A.

RCTC — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 16:37:46 +0000

The Point: RCTC is seeking federal grant funding for next phase of engineering, environmental studies

RCTC is hoping everyone will jump on board to show support for the Coachella Valley-San Gorgonio Pass project. RCTC is proposing twice-daily passenger rail service between the Coachella Valley and Los Angeles Union Station and is seeking the public’s support for the next phase of project development. Residents, business groups, tourism destinations, rail enthusiasts, transit advocates, and other stakeholders in all corners of southern California can visit rctc.org/support to add their names to a growing list of supporters for this service.

Collecting the support from residents across southern California will strengthen RCTC’s application for federal grant funding through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program. Grant applications are due November 29, so voice your support by November 22.

The proposed service follows a 144-mile route with stops in four counties – Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside – and the potential for up to six stations east of Colton and the service endpoint in either Indio or Coachella. RCTC expects to finalize its Service Development Plan and “program level” Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report in early 2022. The next required step is the “project level” EIS/EIR, a $60 million investment that the federal grant would help fund.

“Securing this funding will allow us to advance to the next step in delivering this transformative rail service through southern California, benefiting not only the Coachella Valley, but also passengers in the counties of Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino,” said RCTC Chair Jan Harnik, who also serves as the Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Palm Desert. “This is a game-changing economic opportunity with environmental benefits for all of our communities, including our most disadvantaged communities, along the route,” Harnik said.

If funding for the project-level EIS/EIR is secured, RCTC and Caltrans would be able to:

Conduct preliminary engineering along the 76-mile eastern section of track to the 30% design level; and
Pursue project-level environmental approvals for up to six stations, a new third main track, and associated grade crossings and signal improvements on the eastern section of the corridor.

For more information about the proposed project, go to rctc.org/cvrail and don’t miss our project video.

Riverside County Regional Parks Seeks Public Comments for Proposed Santa Ana River Trail Extension

RCTC — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 18:29:59 +0000

The Point: Trail could extend another 1.7 miles near Green River Golf Club

The Santa Ana River Trail may become a little longer, thanks to a proposal by RCTC and the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District to extend the trail another 1.7 miles near the Green River Golf Club in Corona. The public is encouraged to provide comments on the draft environmental document from October 8 to November 8.

A magnet for cyclists, runners, and walkers, the trail, also known as “the SART,” is envisioned to be the longest multi-use trail in southern California, stretching 110 miles from Huntington Beach to the National Forest boundary near Mentone. RCTC is working on multiple segments to fill gaps in the SART between Green River Road in Corona to the Hidden Valley Wildlife Area east of Norco.

The 1.7-mile trail segment that is undergoing public review runs along the western boundary of the golf club and includes portions of Chino Hills State Park with connections to the existing SART. Key features include a bridge over the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway tracks and a bridge over Aliso Creek to allow trail users to cross safely over the tracks and the creek. The proposed project features a dual-track Class 1 multi-use path and natural surface trail.

During preparation of the draft document under the guidelines of the California Environmental Quality Act, the Regional Park and Open Space District determined that the project would not result in a significant impact to the environment.

Copies of the Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration and other reference documents are available for review at Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District, 4600 Crestmore Rd., Jurupa Valley, CA 92509. These documents are also available for viewing and download.

If approved, construction could begin in about two years. This $11 million construction segment is funded by the Proposition 84 State Coastal Conservancy.

Surf’s Up: Ride Metrolink to the Coast

RCTC — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 21:28:21 +0000

The Point: Metrolink makes it easy to beat the heat with affordable fares including “Kids Ride Free”

Ready to end the summer with a big splash? Cool off and catch the Metrolink beach train for a last hoorah. With both weekday and weekend service on the 91/Perris Valley Line and the Inland Empire/Orange County Line, Metrolink offers a convenient, fun, and affordable way to travel from Riverside County to the beach with the whole family.

Beachgoers can ride the train to popular spots like the San Clemente Pier and Oceanside, since Metrolink stations are steps away from the sand. Make memories by picnicking on the shore, building sandcastles, and dining at yummy eateries nearby. Or bring your bike and take a spin on the path near the Los Rios Historic District in San Juan Capistrano. Did you know that Metrolink has a special car to secure your bike?

Even better, August is National Family Fun Month and a great chance to spend some quality time with the family as summer nears an end.

Bonus: Skip the beach traffic and parking hassles when you take the train! Use the time aboard to talk to the kiddos, read a book, listen to a podcast, take selfies, and apply some sunscreen.

And to help you travel more safely and confidently, Metrolink has installed hand sanitizing stations on each train car. “Clean Care Crews” perform daily deep cleaning and electrostatic spraying of hospital-grade disinfectants throughout the day too.

Not sure how to start planning your trip? RCTC supports Metrolink promotions to help you celebrate Family Fun Month:

How to Ride – Metrolink has an easy guide with tips about schedules, buying tickets, and boarding the train.
$10 Weekends– Book your next getaway at a wallet-friendly price. Metrolink offers a $10 Weekend Day pass to travel throughout the Metrolink system on Saturdays and Sundays, including famous beaches in Orange County. Buy tickets with Metrolink’s mobile app or use the ticket machines and select “Weekend Day Pass” on the home screen.
Kids Ride Free on Weekends– The Kids Ride Free Weekends promotion allows up to three children (17 years and younger) to ride free with a $10 paying adult. Children do not require a ticket and can board with a parent/guardian.

RCTC funds and supports Metrolink service in Riverside County, including the nine stations we own and operate. Remember, Metrolink is a stress-free, environmentally friendly alternative to driving. See you on the beach train!