Antelope Valley Line could lose 67% of weekend service and 27% of weekday trips beginning November 16.
Metrolink is proposing another round of significant service reductions that could take effect as early as November 16, 2026, potentially affecting thousands of Los Angeles County residents who rely on regional rail transportation.
The proposal follows a 20% reduction in weekday service implemented approximately seven months ago. Under the latest plan, Metrolink would reduce service across its Southern California network by 29% on weekdays and 40% on weekends, representing an overall 32% reduction compared to its 2025 schedule.
Antelope Valley Line Faces Significant Reductions
Los Angeles County’s Antelope Valley Line, which connects Lancaster and Palmdale with the San Fernando Valley and downtown Los Angeles, would experience some of the most substantial reductions.
Proposed cuts include:
- 67% reduction in weekend service on the Antelope Valley Line.
- 27% reduction in weekday service on the Antelope Valley Line.
- Additional service reductions across the regional Metrolink network.
The reductions could make it more difficult for residents to commute to work, attend appointments, visit family, and travel throughout the region without relying on a car.
Earlier this year, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) reduced its Metrolink funding by 3%.
Metro Responds to Proposed Cuts
Metro spokesperson Maya Pogoda said the agency remains committed to Metrolink passengers and has worked with regional partners to minimize disruptions.
According to Pogoda, Metro encouraged Metrolink to prioritize reductions on routes with lower weekday ridership, off-peak or reverse-commute trips, and services where another train would be available within a reasonable period.
Nevertheless, the proposed reductions have raised concerns about the long-term accessibility and reliability of regional rail transportation.
Transit Advocates Warn of Consequences
At Metrolink’s October 9 Board of Directors meeting, more than a dozen public commenters expressed concerns about the proposed service cuts. Several warned that reducing train frequency could discourage ridership and lead to additional reductions in the future.
The transit advocacy organization Californians for Electric Rail criticized the proposal, arguing that Metrolink should respond to growing weekend ridership rather than return to a traditional commuter-focused schedule.
The organization also questioned the timing of the reductions as Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, when regional transportation demand is expected to be a major consideration.
Why Is Metrolink Cutting Service?
Metrolink officials cite several financial challenges, including operating costs, lower fare revenue, changes in state and federal funding, and budget constraints among participating transportation agencies.
Metrolink communications director Meredith Yeoman said the agency had already taken steps to reduce costs and adjust fares before proposing additional service cuts.
The latest proposal also follows a recent fare increase. Metrolink continues to struggle with ridership levels that remain approximately 40% below those recorded before the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Happens Next?
The Metrolink Board of Directors approved the budget proposal, including the proposed service reductions, on October 9.
Member transportation agencies will now review the proposal before it returns to Metrolink for final approval on October 23, 2026.
If approved, the service changes are scheduled to begin November 16, 2026.
Los Angeles County residents who depend on Metrolink, particularly passengers using the Antelope Valley Line, should monitor upcoming announcements and review updated schedules before planning travel.
For additional information, visit Metrolink or review the October 9 Board of Directors meeting.
