Metrolink Is Delayed in Santa Barbara as Service Is Sought. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Metrolink Service Delay Pushes Santa Barbara Launch to 2026
Photo: en.m.wikipedia.org

Metrolink will delay introducing its commuter rail service between Ventura and Santa Barbara counties until at least January 2026. Delays are due to agreements and certifications that are required for the safe operation of the system.

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The one-year pilot program, which had been slated to start in October 2025 after being approved in January with support from the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG), the Ventura County Transportation Authority and Metrolink. Officials remain optimistic that terms can soon be finalized.

Pending Agreements and Scheduling Challenges

Aaron Bonfilio, SBCAG’s multimodal programs director, said that operational and funding agreements are close to being finalized. Union Pacific, however, which owns the track north of Moorpark, must complete its approval in order to begin crew certification.

The certification is expected to take about 12 weeks. Scheduling is also being reviewed to reduce conflicts with other rail traffic. The proposed schedule calls for a northbound train to reach Santa Barbara near 8 a.m. before returning to Goleta as early as midmorning.

Ticketing and Future Operations

Tickets for the new service will be sold via Amtrak. The integration is designed to make transport easier for commuters who use both services. Fares when service begins will include a $50 10-trip ticket and a $150 monthly pass. Single-trip pricing will vary depending on the distance the journey takes.

Following the pilot program, the LOSSAN Corridor Agency intends to incorporate the service into its state-supported Pacific Surfliner service on the corridor, providing greater regional connectivity and service adaptability to the corridor.

Source: www.trains.com

When will the Metrolink service to Santa Barbara start?

Metrolink is now expected to start in January 2026, after operating agreements and crew certification.

What will the fare be for the new route?

Riders will have the choice of purchasing a $50 ten-trip ticket and a $150 monthly pass starting when service begins. Single-trip fares will vary based on the distance between Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

Who will actually drive the train after the pilot program?

The LOSSAN Corridor Agency, operator of the Pacific Surfliner, will take over operations following the pilot, adding the service to its existing state-supported network.

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