But thanks to your feedback, we are making a change to improve the customer experience with the current gates while construction continues.

Effective immediately, when any of the security gates are unattended, the security gate will remain open. If the guard posted by the gates needs to leave to check on something, the team at the Real-Time Camera Center will monitor the gates and lock one of them open.

This change will help ensure customers are not delayed and can make their MetroLink and MetroBus connections on-time. When the guard returns to their post, the gates resume their normal operation – customers should present their valid fare to the guard when approaching the gates to have them opened.

When the project is fully completed and integrated with our new fare system, customers will be able to open the gates themselves by tapping their fare at new validators that will be connected to the security gates.

And remember – if you ever need assistance on the system, or see something suspicious, be sure to contact Metro Transit Public Safety – available 24/7 by text at 314.300.0188 or phone at 314.289.6873.

The post Making a Change to Improve the Transit Experience appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

Understanding Flood Risks

Flooding can occur quickly, sometimes within just a few hours of a heavy downpour. Recognizing the signs of potential flooding — such as rising water levels and severe weather alerts — is crucial. Metro Transit continuously monitors weather conditions and has protocols in place to ensure your safety.

Safety Measures on Public Transit

1. Stay Informed: Before heading out, check for service alerts on metrostlouis.org/rider-alerts/ or Transit app. In the event of a flood, service may be rerouted or temporarily suspended.
2. Choose Safe Routes: If you must travel during a storm, plan your route carefully. Avoid areas known to flood easily.
3. Follow Instructions from Metro Transit workers: Our team members are trained to handle emergency situations. Always listen to their guidance during adverse weather conditions.

Handling Sudden Weather Changes

Weather can be unpredictable, making preparedness key. Here are tips to tackle sudden weather changes while using public transit:

1. Dress in Layers: Prepare for varying temperatures and conditions. Dress in layers so you can adjust to sudden changes as you move between indoor and outdoor environments.
2. Carry Essentials: If storms are in the forecast, carry a compact umbrella, a lightweight rain jacket, and a reusable water bottle. Staying dry will keep you safe.
3. Check the Forecast: Before leaving home, check the local weather forecast. This can help set your expectations for the day and prompt you to adjust your travel plans.
4. Allow Extra Time: Sudden storms can lead to delays. Factor in extra time for your commute, and stay calm if your transport takes longer than expected.

Safe Biking in Unpredictable Weather

For those who bike to connect with public transit or as their primary mode of transport, here are some safety precautions to consider:

1. Invest in Quality Gear: Use a good-quality rain jacket and use fenders on your bike to help keep you dry. Visibility is crucial; wear bright colors and consider lights or reflectors.
2. Know Your Route: Familiarize yourself with safe biking routes that are less likely to flood and avoid busy roads during stormy weather.
3. Navigate Puddles Cautiously: Many puddles can conceal hazards. Avoid riding through deep water to prevent damage to your bike or accidents.
4. Stay Alert for Conditions: Always be aware of changing weather, and don’t hesitate to prioritize using Metro Transit instead of biking when possible during adverse conditions.

Safety during severe weather is a shared responsibility. By staying informed and prepared, you can make smarter decisions while using public transit, shielding yourself from the potential dangers that arise during storms or floods. Stay safe, smart, and happy travels!

The post How to Prepare and How to React When Storms Hit appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

“After a MetroLink train struck and killed an individual trespassing on the light rail system Tuesday evening, we immediately launched an internal investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. After extensive review of all the video footage from cameras located on the light rail system and on the MetroLink train itself, we have determined this was a deliberate and intentional act by the individual to end their life.

The video footage shows that the MetroLink operator took every possible action to avoid this incident. They followed all policies and emergency procedures, there was simply nothing more they could do. Sadly, this individual took actions to conceal themselves and limit their visibility on active rail lines, making this situation unavoidable.

I want to thank the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department for their assistance. We continue to work closely with them and share video footage as they move forward with their independent investigation.

Our hearts go out to the individual’s family during this difficult time, as well as to our MetroLink operator. Even though the operator followed their training, activated emergency procedures, and did everything in their power to prevent this tragedy, it remains a devastating event for them. They have the full support of the entire Metro Transit team.

If you are struggling and need to talk, you are not alone. There is help available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Missouri, available 24/7 whenever you need support.“

The post Statement on 3/11/25 MetroLink Incident appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

Hopping On & Hopping Off Metro Transit Safely
Safety should always come first when using Metro. Here are some tips for boarding and exiting your vehicle:

1. Wait for the Vehicle to Come to a Complete Stop: Make sure your bus, train or van is fully stopped to prevent accidents and keeps everyone safe.
2. Let Riders Get Off First: Let the riders on the train or bus exit before you board. This reduces crowding at the entrance and helps us keep moving smoothly.
3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch where you are stepping for any hazards, while also being aware of bicycles, other passengers, and obstacles.
4. Hold Handrails

Respect Personal Space, Respect Other Passengers

1. Be Mindful of Your Space: When seated, keep your belongings close to you rather than spread out. If you’re standing, hold on to rails to stay steady.
2. Use Headphones: This is a big one — if you want to enjoy music or podcasts, use headphones to keep the noise down for other passengers.
3. Appropriate Conversations: Keep your voice at a reasonable level when talking on your phone or with fellow passengers. Not everyone wants to be part of your conversation.
4. Practice Patience: Everyone is busy and we sometimes feel like we’re constantly in a rush. Practicing patience can help lower the stress and create a more pleasant atmosphere.

Staying Safe in the Evenings
Here are some safety tips for those commuting after dark:

1. Stay in Well-Lit Areas: While waiting for your ride, position yourself in areas that are well-lit and active if possible.
2. Plan Your Route: Before heading out, know your schedule and get to the station or bus stop early to avoid rushing. Be prepared by familiarizing yourself with the route and stops.
3. Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: Keep your bags close to you, and avoid displaying valuables.
4. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut. Move to a different area, or talk to a Metro Transit team member if you have concerns..

See Something, Say Something
Public safety is a collective effort. If you see something that seems out of the ordinary, it’s crucial to report it:

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye on the activities around you. If something seems suspicious or concerning, don’t hesitate to report it.
2. Know How to Report Concerns: Our Public Safety team is available 24/7. Call them at 314-289-6873 or text 314-300-0188. You can also find Passenger Assist Telephones (PATs) at all MetroLink stations and Metro Transit Centers that have an easy-to-use call button to immediately connect with Metro Public Safety.
3. Report Early: If you notice suspicious behavior, report it as soon as possible. Early reporting can help prevent incidents before they escalate.
4. Share Your Knowledge: Talk to your fellow commuters about the importance of safety. A collective effort to report can lead to a safer commuting experience for everyone.

Practice these good transit habits and help contribute to a great experience on Metro Transit for everyone. Safe travels!

The post Good Habits for Safe & Comfortable Transit Trips appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

MetroLink trains can only change tracks where there is a crossover, and the locations of these crossovers determine how long a distance trains must share on a single track.

In our current situation, the potential ground instability is located in a small area of the tracks in Illinois. However, in order for trains to safely travel around that area, they have to share a single track for more than five miles due to where the crossovers are located.

Five miles is a long distance for a single-track operation, because only one train can be in that long section of track at a time. Other trains, both eastbound and westbound, need to wait for that one train to clear the shared track before they can continue. This restricts the number of trains that can pass through the area.

If we were to run normal Red Line and Blue Line service during this single-track operation, there would not be enough time for a train to clear the shared track before another train needed to go. Trains would start to pile up in lines, waiting for the shared track to be cleared, which would create significant delays, completely inaccurate schedules, and unsafe operations.

Instead, by limiting Blue Line service to only operate between the Shrewsbury-Lansdowne I-44 and Forest Park-DeBaliviere Stations, we reduce train volume to allow trains to use the single track effectively, which prevents disastrous bottlenecks on the tracks, maintains schedules, and minimizes delays.

The post Why Limiting Blue Line Service is Sometimes Needed appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

Unfortunately, the current adjustments to MetroLink service will need to remain in effect until further notice. While we had hoped to return to normal MetroLink operations soon, the situation has proven more complex than initially anticipated.

Click here for information on why Blue Line service is currently limited.

The safety of our passengers and staff remains our top priority. Heavy precipitation last month, followed by cycles of freezing, thawing, and refreezing, has caused significant ground instability in a small area near the MetroLink tracks in St. Clair County, Illinois. This has led to a gradual shift in the ground beneath the westbound track, making it unsafe for trains to operate on that section at this time.

We want to assure you that our team has been and continues to closely monitor the situation using remote electronic sensors and on-site inspections. Once the shifting stops, our Operations and Engineering teams will evaluate the conditions and determine a safe timeframe for resuming normal  MetroLink service.

However, we cannot estimate how long this process will take. Until further notice, Blue Line MetroLink trains will continue to only operate between the Shrewsbury I-44 and Forest Park-DeBaliviere Stations.

We know these changes have disrupted your daily routines, and caused frustrating delays and hardship. Please know we sincerely regret the inconvenience, and your continued patience and understanding mean so much as we work to address these challenges and prioritize everyone’s safety.

If you have any questions or need further assistance navigating the modified MetroLink service, please contact our Transit Information team at 314.231.2345 (phone) or 314.207.9786 (text).

The post Update: Modified MetroLink Service to Continue Until Further Notice appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

• Plan Ahead: Check schedules in advance and arrive early to avoid missing your bus or train and having to wait in the cold. The Transit app is a great resource to show you exactly when your bus or train will show up, and if there are any delays due to weather conditions.

• Stay Warm: Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes, and wear hats, gloves and thermal socks to retain warmth. If you’re taking MetroLink, all open stations have platform heaters that can be used when it’s less than 45°F outside. Press the green button and the heater will stay on for 15 minutes.

• Watch for Slick Spots: Take extra care and watch for ice and slippery hazards when heading to your bus stop or MetroLink platform. Wear shoes with good traction and take small, deliberate steps to maintain balance. Use handrails when available and be cautious of hidden curbs under snow or ice.

• Recognize Hypothermia Signs: Be aware of symptoms like shivering, confusion, and drowsiness. Seek warmth immediately if noticed.

• Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay informed about potential storms and adjust travel plans accordingly.

By following these tips, you can focus on your journey and enjoy your time out. Stay warm, stay safe, and happy travels!

The post RIDE ON Safely With These Winter Weather Tips appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

• Expect to run into wet and slick surfaces due to rain and fallen leaves. Stay safe by wearing appropriate footwear with good traction and being mindful of your surroundings while on foot or bike. Take shorter steps and slow down when walking on slippery surfaces, and be sure to use handrails when available.
• Lower visibility is another concern during the fall season as the days get shorter and darkness sets in earlier. Wear bright and reflective clothing, stay warm, and remain aware of your surroundings. Additionally, always use designated crosswalks on foot and be cautious at intersections, especially when the elements or time of day make it harder for drivers to see people walking or biking.
• Be aware of the effects Daylight Saving Time. During the first few weeks of the time change, it’s common to see more accidents on the roads with pedestrians and bicyclists. We encourage everyone to be extra cautious and attentive, especially during peak commuting hours in the morning and evening.

By following these safety tips and staying mindful of the changing conditions during the fall season, you can have a safer and more enjoyable autumn trips with Metro Transit.

The post Safe Travel Tips for Walking or Biking Around Town This Fall appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

MetroLink customers will begin using newly installed MetroLink security gates to access the station platform at the Emerson Park MetroLink Station starting Monday afternoon, September 9, 2024. The gates at three other MetroLink stations in St. Clair County will also be manned in weekly phases starting in September as the first group of stations receives security gates and new fencing as part of the Secure Platform Plan.

Security team members will manually operate the gates until a new fare collection system is installed and integrated with the gating system. MetroLink customers will show the security officer their valid pass or transit ticket before the security team members activate the gate to open so the customer can proceed to the Emerson Park MetroLink Station platform. Customers should allow extra time for their commutes to navigate the new gate procedure to access the platform.

Unless there are unforeseen delays, the gates at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee MetroLink Station will go into service the week of September 16; the gates at the Washington Park MetroLink Station starting the week of September 23; and the gates at the College MetroLink Station starting the week of September 30.

Installation of security gates and fencing is underway at several stations in Missouri: Delmar Loop, Forest Park-DeBaliviere, Central West End, Cortex, Grand, Union Station and Civic Center. Those security gates will go into service with security teams operating them this fall. Security gates and fencing will be installed and operational at all 38 MetroLink stations by January 2026.

The post SPP Update: Customers to Use New Security Gates Starting September 9 appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.

Plan Your Route
Familiarize your child with the bus schedule and routes. Make sure they know the location of their bus stop and their school so they can feel more confident navigating their way to school.

Arrive Early
Encourage your child to arrive at the bus stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled departure. This will help them avoid rushing and ensure they catch their bus on time.

Stay Visible
It’s important for kids to wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in the early morning or evening. This makes them easily visible to bus drivers and other commuters.

Wait Safely
Show your child how to use designated crosswalks and sidewalks to reach the bus stop and to never walk in a traffic lane. Also remind them to stand back from the curb while waiting for the bus and avoid playing or running near the bus stop.

Boarding the Bus
Emphasize the importance of waiting for the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching and allowing other passengers to exit to make boarding much smoother. Always enter the bus through the front door and use the handrail. Never run after a bus that has pulled away.

While on the Bus
For safety, always stand behind the yellow line and never in the stairwell while the bus is in motion. Sit quietly, keep aisles clear of bags or belongings, and be respectful to the driver and other passengers.

Stay Alert
It’s important they are aware of their surroundings and be prepared to exit when their destination approaches. Avoid distractions such as loud music or excessive phone use.

Exiting the Bus
Remind your child to wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before standing and to use the handrail when exiting. Children should always wait for the bus to leave before attempting to pick up something dropped near the bus or cross the street, and they should never cross in front of or behind the bus.

Stranger Awareness
Do not talk to strangers or accept rides from anyone they do not know. They should notify the bus driver immediately if they feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

Helping your child learn these guidelines will help them become confident and responsible commuters. Let’s work together to give our children the knowledge and skills they need to travel around town safely and comfortably.

The post Prepare Your Kids for Safe Commuting to School appeared first on Metro Transit – Saint Louis.