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MetroLink light rail turns 20 today
My family uses it a lot when we go to sporting events. Or we are going to some other event downtown.
On behalf of the recipient class, I say “Thank you” to all those who have worked so hard for many years to build such a good transportation option for ALL to use in the St. Louis area.
Living in the St. Louis Metro area not super close to the MetroLink, I can say although I do not use it a lot, I’m proud and happy to see what a great service it provides to the most essential parts of the St. Louis Metro Area. It passes right by most of the major tourist destinations (Gateway Arch, LaClede’s Landing, Forest Park [which includes the zoo, art museum, science center, planetarium, and many other things], and the heart of downtown St. Louis), most business centers (again, downtown St. Louis), all of the major sporting venues (Cardinals, Rams, and Blues), all major transportation centers including the airport and Amtrak, and through a majority of the low income areas including East St. Louis, as well as most major universities in the area such as SLU, Washu, and UMSL. The security and safety is unparalleled (there has never been a single fatal accident involving MetroLink and security is top-notch), and the ride is smooth and fast. Due to using mostly old abandoned rail ROW’s, it is mostly grade separated unlike most light rail systems meaning that only a few at-grade rail crossings exist and no street running. The MetroLink is something St. Louisans have to be very proud of and even though there will likely not be many extensions (if any) in the near future due to major budget constraints, most of what is vital in a rail transit system is already existent in the MetroLink line. It is something I personally am proud of and all of the people in St. Louis should be proud of. Additionally with about 53,000 rail boardings I believe it is 5th most ridden LRT (somebody verify?) in the nation or maybe even 5th in North America.
And Goosie will say… a total failure!!!
Bringing Light Rail to St Louis, I wonder how one would classify Illinois Terminals passenger service all those years ago.
Metrolink is a bargain for the price. The ride can be fun and interesting.
Metrolink has been fast and convenient to use in St. Louis. Good access to connect out of town at Lambert Field by air, or the new Gateway Transportation Center(Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, and Greyhound) by intercity land carriers. St. Louis is a fun place to visit. Greyhound runs buses between St. Louis and Indianapolis, where Amtrak is also at the same location there.