Ventura County Hit By Train Cancellations as Metrolink Reduces Service for 45 Days

Metrolink is cutting train service for 45 days and canceling dozens of trips due to mechanical issues and a shortage of parts, officials reported at a recent Ventura County Transportation Commission meeting.

The temporary reductions took effect March 23 and are expected to last about seven weeks, impacting roughly 40 train trips, according to Metrolink.

During the April 3 meeting of the Ventura County Transportation Commission, authorities noted that the cuts are intended to maintain safe operations as Metrolink faces equipment limitations, declining ridership, and financial strain.

Metrolink has also struggled to obtain replacement parts needed to maintain its locomotives, contributing to delays and reduced service. Officials said the temporary reduction is also intended to prepare the fleet for increased summer demand, including travel tied to upcoming FIFA World Cup events.

Starting March 23, Metrolink is temporarily reducing service for seven weeks. Here’s what you need to know to prepare. pic.twitter.com/p7CArOexXx

— Metrolink (@Metrolink) March 22, 2026

In Ventura County, the changes primarily affect midday service, with three to four trains on the Ventura County Line temporarily suspended, reducing travel options into Los Angeles outside peak commute hours. Affected Ventura County service includes trains 100, 114, 116, 117, 119, and 139, which have been temporarily removed from operation.

Across the system, service has been reduced on most lines except the Riverside Line and Arrow service. Some trains have been canceled, while others are operating on shortened routes, with fewer departures and adjusted start and end points.

On the San Bernardino Line, multiple trains between Los Angeles and San Bernardino have been suspended. The Orange County Line is running limited service to and from Oceanside, while the Antelope Valley Line has seen cancellations and reduced service to Lancaster. The 91/Perris Valley Line is also operating with some trips suspended or modified.

Beyond the parts shortage, officials said Metrolink is facing financial strain as Los Angeles and Orange County, which are its two largest funding partners, have reduced their contributions.

Officials also noted that Metrolink’s core commuter base has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, and efforts to attract new riders have fallen short. Rising labor and maintenance costs have added further pressure to the agency’s budget.

During the meeting, commissioners also reviewed a draft 2026–2027 budget that includes a $3.6 million reduction in commuter rail funding.

Officials said the current schedule could change depending on equipment availability and operating conditions in the coming weeks.