Rail ridership up as gas prices drop (in CA)

[question everything]

Rail ridership up as gas prices drop

LOS ANGELES – Despite falling gas prices, the number of people taking Southern California's commuter rail lines has increased so much that officials are looking for more trains.

Metrolink, which provides rail service from downtown Los Angeles to five surrounding counties, saw sharp increases in riders when gas prices went up in summer and fall.

Traditionally such increases in riders go down as gas prices fall, but that hasn't happened this winter, said Metrolink spokeswoman Denise Tyrrell.

Associated Press

http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20060102/news_1n2region.html (and scroll down)

[Barkley]

1. The traffic is so bad that people are seeking alternatives

The Orangeline is carrying over 16,000 passengers daily.

[tatertop]

2. I love travel by rail

[rinsd]

4. I would tend to agree....

I don't think its gas prices so much(which are a factor certainly) as the traffic free environment.

Especially going to LA from San Diego.

After all, even when it was $3 a gallon it was cheaper to drive to LA.

[TomClash]

3. Good news nt