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Dear Metrolink...Can I Have My Money Back?
Dear Metrolink:
I've been a daily, faithful rider on the Antelope Valley line for nearly two years now. I love me the public transportation. It saves me the grief that I know all those dead-stopped drivers along the 5 freeway are going through each morning.
But here's the deal. You raised my train fare this month. The monthly cost for my pass from Newhall to Union Station went from $187.50 to $193.25. Fortunately, my company subsidizes some of my transportation costs. But in return for the hike, shouldn't your passengers be offered good reliable service? In fact, your chief Roger Snobel said in an LAT op-ed that hikes were the only way to save MTA from a huge operating deficit and that "We simply can't continue business as usual and still provide quality service to our customers."*
On Wednesday and Thursday, the morning rush hour trains along the Antelope Valley line were delayed because of train breakdowns. A key train on Wednesday was cancelled. The others were really late. (I heard from other riders of the same troubles on Tuesday, but I was off early in the week.) This morning, a Ventura line train broke down in Burbank and we were delayed. Again. (Plus, can you do something about that funky, mildewy smell in this morning's train car for my ride home?) Once in awhile, I can see these things happening, but every day? C'mon now.
My boss is understanding, but how many times can I keep giving the excuse my train broke down? So, can I have some money back on my monthly pass that went up this month?
If not, then how about a note for my boss excusing my lateness -- for next week.
Sponsored message
Thanks,
Metrolink Rider
*Mea Culpa: Metrolink and Metro (which Roger Snobel heads) are two separate entities. David R. Solow is
Chief Executive Officer of the Southern California Regional Rail Authority. My beef still remains though: For the prices we pay, we should at least get decent service.
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