METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

New tech will allow Metrolink riders to use mobile app to transfer to LA Metro rail

Currently, Metrolink riders who transfer to Metro Rail cannot use an electronic ticket, but must use a TAP-enabled paper ticket to access Metro Rail.

December 27, 2017
New tech will allow Metrolink riders to use mobile app to transfer to LA Metro rail

The new optic readers installed at Metro Rail gates in Los Angeles Union Station.

2 min to read


The integration of these new optic readers costs $1.2 million and is Phase 3 of Metrolink’s Mobile App Project. Photos courtesy Metrolink

New technology is now being installed across Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (Metro) system that will allow Metrolink riders to use their mobile app to transfer to the gated Metro Rail system. The installation and testing of these new optic readers will continue throughout the year.

“This will provide more flexibility and convenience for the 30% of our riders transfer to Metro Rail,” said Metrolink Chair Andrew Kotyuk. “On behalf of the Metrolink board of directors, I am very thankful to our partners at Metro for working with us to develop and install this technology throughout their system.”

Ad Loading...

Currently, Metrolink riders who transfer to Metro Rail cannot use an electronic ticket, but must use a TAP-enabled paper ticket to access Metro Rail. This means riders have to get to the train station in time to wait in line at the ticket vending machine to purchase the paper ticket before boarding their train.

“Innovation and accessibility are the backbone of our transportation future,” said Los Angeles Mayor and Metro Board Chair Eric Garcetti. “This new technology will help Metrolink riders make a seamless transfer to Metro rail, getting them to their destination sooner.” 

The new optic readers installed at Metro Rail gates in Los Angeles Union Station.

This project is part of a technology transformation Metrolink has made over the past six months, which includes the launch of a new website and GPS train tracker that allows riders to find their train in real-time.

The integration of these new optic readers costs $1.2 million and is Phase 3 of Metrolink’s Mobile App Project. This project began in late 2016 and is expected to go live by the end of this year, pending system-wide testing.

More Technology

Cover Photo for METROspectives with Timothy Menard
TechnologyMarch 5, 2026

How AI and Innovation Are Powering the Future with LYT’s Timothy Menard

Menard discusses how data-driven signal prioritization is improving efficiency, reliability, and ridership, while offering insight into the innovations driving the next generation of smart mobility. Together, they explore how technology and collaboration are paving the way for a more connected, sustainable future in transit.

Read More →
An NJ TRANSIT bus
Technologyby StaffMarch 4, 2026

NJ Transit Pilots AI-Powered Digital Bus Stop Signs

The pilot program showcases two companies’ technology at eight bus stops. The companies submitted their ideas through the Transit Tech Lab, which is backed by the Partnership Fund for New York City and provides an accelerated pathway for early to growth-stage companies to solve public transportation challenges for the largest transit agencies in North America.

Read More →
Cover photo for Biz Briefs
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsFebruary 26, 2026

Biz Briefs: Hitachi Rail in Philadelphia, Keolis in Nantucket, and More

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
MBTA passengers at rail station
Technologyby StaffFebruary 24, 2026

Boston's MBTA Advancing Major Signal Modernization to Improve Red Line Reliability

To accomplish this work, the MBTA announced that four phases of temporary evening service changes will begin on February 28 and continue through April.

Read More →
Wiki Honolulu Airport shuttle
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsFebruary 20, 2026

Biz Briefs: Electric Shuttles in Hawaii, STV and LA Metro's Clean Bus Program, and More

From strategic partnerships to acquisitions and service expansions, the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. 

Read More →
Portrait of Joshua Schank, Ph.D., alongside the ACES Mobility Coalition logo.
Managementby StaffFebruary 16, 2026

ACES Mobility Coalition Selects Joshua Schank as New Executive Director

Veteran transportation innovator to lead coalition as it pushes nationwide expansion of shared autonomous mobility.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Cover photo for Biz Briefs
Technologyby StaffFebruary 16, 2026

Biz Briefs: Glydways Breaks Ground in ATL and More!

In this edition of Biz Briefs, we highlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility — from manufacturers and technology providers to transit agencies and motorcoach service operators.

Read More →
Denver RTD riders using Tap-n-Ride fare payment system.
Technologyby StaffFebruary 13, 2026

Denver's RTD Sees Strong Early Adoption of Tap-n-Ride Fare System

RTD aims to have 15% of all fare payments by individual customers made via Tap-n-Ride by the end of 2026, as awareness of this contactless payment option grows.

Read More →
A Picture of Ster Seating's Parent/Child transit seating product.
Technologyby StaffFebruary 10, 2026

Ster Seating, Maryland Transit Launch First Parent/Child Transit Seat in North America

The configuration uses Ster Seating's Gemini seat platform to create a family-friendly floor layout specifically engineered to accommodate parents traveling with young children.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Cover photo for Biz Briefs
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsFebruary 6, 2026

Biz Briefs: Bus and Railcar Orders, Tech, and More

In this edition of Biz Briefs, we highlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility — from manufacturers and technology providers to transit agencies and motorcoach service operators.

Read More →