San Diego Trolley ready for influx of Padres fans next week with Dodgers coming to town 21
Total Views: 209 East County News Service May 15, 2026 (San Diego County) — The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System is ramping up its San Diego Trolley service to accommodate sold-out crowds next week at Petco Park when the San Diego Padres prepare to host their rival Los Angeles Dodgers, in their first high-stakes matchup of the 2026 season. The three-game series, running from May 18 to May 20, historically draws massive crowds and heavy downtown traffic. To help baseball fans avoid congestion, steep parking fees and high fuel costs, transit officials are strongly encouraging attendees to use public transportation. Printer-friendly version
21 viewsSan Diego FC playoff-bound this weekend at Snapdragon Stadium 1.2K
Total Views: 60 By Karen Pearlman Oct. 23, 2025 (San Diego) — It’s been quite a start for the San Diego Football Club. In its inaugural Major League Soccer season, the team is headed to the playoffs. San Diego FC will host its first playoff match Sunday, Oct. 26, at Snapdragon Stadium when the team faces the Portland Timbers in Game 1 of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs Round One Best-of-Three series. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., with coverage available on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. The stellar first-season expansion team, led by head coach Mikey Varas, finished atop the Western Conference with 63 points and 19 wins — both new records for a first-year MLS team. San Diego FC’s dominant run earned them the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. The team scored 64 goals and conceded 41, resulting in a goal differential of +23. Key contributors this season have included midfielder Anders Dreyer, who led the team with 19 goals and 18 assists in 34 matches. Forward Milan Iloski added 10 goals in just 14 appearances, while Hirving “Chucky” Lozano contributed nine goals and nine assists in 27 matches. Midfield support came from Jeppe Tverskov (two goals, 11 assists) and Onni Valakari (four goals, 11 assists), both of whom played in all 34 regular season matches. Defender Christopher McVey anchored the back line with 32 starts and a stellar passing accuracy of 93 percent. Looking back and moving forward San Diego enters the match riding high after a 4-0 rout of Portland in their regular season finale just last week — a performance Varas told various media outlets was “really mature” and “consistent throughout.” The team’s attacking firepower is spearheaded by Anders Dreyer, a Newcomer of the Year candidate who has emerged as a breakout star. Game 2 is scheduled for Nov. 1, with a potential Game 3 on Nov. 9 if needed. Game 2 will be at 6:30 p.m. at Providence Park in Portland, and Game 3 back in San Diego if needed. The winner of the series will advance to face either Minnesota United FC or the Seattle Sounders in the Western Conference Semifinals. If any match ends in a draw after 90 minutes, it will go straight to penalty kicks — no extra time will be played. Fans arriving early to Sunday’s match will receive a commemorative playoff scarf, courtesy of Sharp HealthCare, as the club looks to turn Snapdragon into a fortress for the postseason. MTS options to get to the game The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System is ramping up San Diego Trolley service for fans heading to Snapdragon. MTS Green Line Trolleys offer fans a fast, convenient, and affordable way to get to the match and back home post-event, with service that takes riders directly to the stadium’s doorstep. Fans are encouraged to skip traffic and parking hassles and ride the Trolley to be part of the electric playoff atmosphere. For pre-event Green Line service, Trolleys depart all stations every 15 minutes or better, with additional trips added between 4:15 and 6:30 p.m. from downtown San Diego. Post-event, Trolleys depart the Stadium Station every 15 minutes or better in both directions, with additional trips added as needed until 9:20 p.m. or until crowds diminish. In celebration of the club’s historic debut season, MTS has partnered with San Diego FC to release limited-edition PRONTO cards. MTS will have a booth set up in the Trolley Plaza one hour prior to kickoff where fans can pick up a free limited-edition PRONTO card while supplies last. The collectible cards are also available at the MTS Transit Store and select Trolley station ticket machines for $2. An order-by-phone option is also available through PRONTO Support at 619-595-5636. Full details are available here. Fans can park at one of MTS’ free Park & Ride lots throughout the Trolley system. The most convenient locations are the Old Town Transit Center (400+ free parking spots); Caltrans District 11 (300+ additional free parking spots); Morena/Linda Vista (200 spaces, most parking available off Friars Road); Grossmont Transit Center (220 free parking spots); El Cajon Transit Center (400+ free parking spots); and Amaya Drive (230 free parking spots) Fans now have the option to simply tap a credit card or other contactless payment options, such as a smartphone or smartwatch, on a station validator to pay for a one-way ride ($2.50, valid for two hours). This allows fans to bypass the ticket machine and speed up boarding times. Fans can download the PRONTO app in advance and load at least $5, which covers a round-trip fare for adult riders. All riders must tap or scan on Trolley platform validators to activate their pass prior to boarding. Printer-friendly version
1.2K viewsSan Diego Trolley improvements coming to East County Orange line 1.8K
Total Views: 183 Riders should plan for weekend delays during construction through early 2028 By Paul Levikow August 27, 2025 (El Cajon) — The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System Wednesday announced details of the San Diego Trolley Orange Line Improvement Project, or Rail Ready, on the stretch of tracks from San Diego to El Cajon. The $151 million improvement project will modernize the Orange Line between the 32nd and Commercial Street Station in San Diego to the El Cajon Transit Center on S. Marshall Avenue. Riders will experience weekend service disruptions about once a month over the next two-and-a-half years, according to MTS officials, but they will have access to bus shuttles between those stations at no extra charge. “The infrastructure with the Orange Line is decades old. It’s been around a long time and so, we want to bring that up to today’s standards,” MTS spokesman Mark Olson said. “Now we can get moving on it, get this thing rolling and make sure it’s in a solid state of good repair for our customers for generations to come.” The two-phase upgrade through early 2028 is made possible by federal and state grants and local MTS capital improvement funds. The project includes track and signal improvements from Massachusetts Avenue to the El Cajon transit Center for greater operational flexibility; two new universal crossovers to improve train flow and reduce delays; eleven grade crossings with upgraded signals and gate arms for safety; track and pedestrian walkway upgrades at 47th Street in San Diego, La Mesa Boulevard and the El Cajon transit Center; replacement of 6,400 feet of curve-worn rail for a smother, more reliable ride; and modernized signaling and switching systems for safer, more efficient operations, according to MTS. Service disruption will be happening less frequently once the project is complete. “Holistically it will be a much better ride for our customers and serve the community much better,” Olson said. “It’s going to do a lot of good for the riders of East County all the way through Lemon Grove, La Mesa, all the way into downtown. It’s going to do a lot of good for everybody that takes the Orange Line.” Olsen said Rail Ready is twofold. “We want to have the rail system ready for the future and serving the public well into the future,” he said. “But it’s also to get our riders ready that a big construction project is coming up on the rail line.” Riders can stay informed in real time by visiting a dedicated MTS website for updates and subscribing to a newsletter that will keep them informed of service disruptions. In addition, a video explaining the project in English and Spanish is posted at https://www.sdmts.com/inside-mts/current-projects/rail-ready. “We want people to stay informed, stay in the know about this project, not only its benefits, but any kind of service disruptions that may be taking place because of it,” Olson said. We just want to make sure residents are well aware that this is happening and there will be some closures, but also get excited about this infrastructure project that will do a lot of good for their rail line.” New trolley rail cars will come later. Printer-friendly version
1.8K viewsNEXT GENERATION MTS TROLLEY CARS WILL BEGIN SERVICE ON SATURDAY 4.6K
Total Views: 38 Source: MTS Photo IDs: (From Left to Right) Mike Wygant, Chief Operating Officer, MTS Bus; Kim Kawada, Chief Deputy Executive Director, SANDAG; Brian Riley, Superintendent of Transportation, MTS Rail; Wayne Terry, Chief Operating Officer, MTS Rail; Paul Jablonski, Chief Executive Officer, MTS; Georgette Gómez, City of San Diego Council President and Board of Directors Chair, MTS; Mona Rios, Vice Chair, MTS; Robyn Stimson, Vice President of Business Development, Siemens; Chuck Bell, Project Manager, Siemens; Nick Balfour, Engineering Project Manager, Siemens; Andy Goddard Jr., Superintendent of LRV Maintenance, MTS Rail; Ed Graham, Assistant Superintendent of Transportation, MTS Rail. April 18, 2019 (San Diego) – As the next generation of trolley cars gears up to begin service on the UC San Diego Blue Line this Saturday, officials with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) unveiled to the public the first vehicle of the new trolley series as part of a ‘Trolley Open House’ on Wednesday. The new trolley cars will enter service as part of the 5000 vehicles series, representing the third generation of modern, low-floor vehicles, which have been in operation on MTS’ light rail network since 2005. For the past seven months, MTS has been steadily receiving new Siemens S700 trolley cars as part of an order of 45 vehicles placed in 2016. The first trolley car was delivered last August, in the iconic red paint scheme of the San Diego Trolley, with the remaining vehicles expected to be delivered over the next 2 years. The 45 new S700 light rail vehicles (LRVs) have the same low-floor characteristics as newer models in MTS’ current fleet, but feature a redesigned middle section to improve passenger flow and provide door-to-door accessibility for riders in wheelchairs or other mobility devices. To facilitate cleaning and maintenance, train seats will be upholstered standard in vinyl rather than the cloth used in previous models. Additional features include improved interior sightlines for added security and relocated operational equipment to facilitate easier access by maintenance technicians. “It’s important for our transit system to be accessible to everyone, especially members of our disability community,” said Georgette Gómez, San Diego City Council President and MTS Board Chair. “These new Trolleys are an example of how MTS continues make improvements to help all of our passengers access the system better.” Siemens, who has provided MTS with its light rail vehicles since the initial launch of the San Diego Trolley in 1981, manufactured the new vehicles. “These next-generation vehicles represent the true partnership that exists between MTS and Siemens”, said Paul Jablonski, MTS Chief Executive Officer. “We worked closely over the last three years to ensure that these vehicles meet the needs of our system and our riders.” In addition to putting the vehicles into service now, MTS will use the new vehicles to increase service on the UC San Diego Blue and Orange lines beginning June 9. The vehicles were delivered from the Siemens rail manufacturing hub in Sacramento, Calif. and bring the total number of LRVs supplied to MTS to 244, making MTS the largest U.S. light rail customer for Siemens. “Siemens is proud to continue our 38-year relationship with MTS with the delivery of these state-of-the-art light rail vehicles for San Diego,” said Michael Cahill, president of Siemens Rolling Stock in the U.S. “These California-built vehicles will help continue MTS’ legacy of outstanding service to its riders and help accommodate riders on their growing rail system.” Siemens is currently the leading supplier of light rail vehicles in North America. MTS operates 95 bus routes and three trolley lines on 53 miles of double-tracked railway. Every weekday 300,000 passenger trips are taken on MTS bus and trolley services in 10 cities and unincorporated areas of the county. In FY 2018, MTS served nearly 86 million riders. For more information on how you can use public transportation and save money, go to www.sdmts.com. Printer-friendly version
4.6K viewsTRANSPORTATION JUSTICE FOR EAST COUNTY: MEETING & COMMUNITY DINNER SEPT. 9 IN EL CAJON 13
Total Views: 63 By Miriam Raftery August 29, 2014 (El Cajon)—You and your neighbors are invited to discuss access to safe, efficient and affordable transportation options. What are your transportation needs and priorities? How can you influence transportation planning decisions? A community meeting on these issues is planned for Tuesday, September 9th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Prescott Promenade Park, 201 East Main Street in El Cajon. Dinner will be provided and Spanish translation is available. (View flyer) This event is organized by a coalition that includes the Environmental Health Coalition, Cleveland National Forest Foundation, MAAC, and City Heights Community Development Corporation. The groups observe that transportation justice increases transportation access, improves public health and safety, and ensures equity for all. In addition, a petition has been launched calling on local elected officials and the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) to support transportation justice and adopt a regional transportation plant that: Builds public transit and biking/walking infrastructure projects first, postponing any freeway expansion until this network is fully operational Develops transportation options that reduces vehicle miles traveled, reduces air pollution, and reduces climate change causing greenhouse gases Reduces the risk of being hit by a car through improved bike/walk infrastructure, improves speed and frequency of transit, and maintains affordable prices Prioritizes improving transit and bike/walk infrastructure in overburdened communities To learn more ways that you can help, such as visiting public officials, collecting stories of local residents and gathering petition signatures, see the Transportation Justice Solidarity statement here and visit www.transitsandiego.org Printer-friendly version
13 viewsLA MESA POLICE INVESTIGATE BEATING OF TROLLEY RIDER BY MTS SECURITY EMPLOYEES 12
Total Views: 54 View video of beating (warning, disturbing content): http://www.10news.com/news/investigations/video-security-officers-beat-man-on-trolley By Miriam Raftery August 22, 2014 (La Mesa) – Two security officers for Metropolitan Transit System have been suspended after security video revealed the officers knocking a man across the aisle and then beating him for nearly seven minutes, 10 News reports. 10 News obtained the video through a public records request after receiving a complaint from Lynn Riggs, a passenger who witnessed the beating aboard the trolley in La Mesa on August 18. “He was not trying to get away, he was just trying to avoid getting further injured,” she said. “I just watched them beat him and beat him and beat him with the baton.” At one point, officers paused, then began violently beating the man again, seemingly without provocation. The witness called the behavior “out of control.” NBC News reports that the man, who was shirtless, was later treated at a hospital for injuries. The victim’s name has not been released. “La Mesa Police Department will be evaluating the case and working with the District Attorney’s Office to evaluate for criminal charges,” Lieutenant. Matt Nicholass with La Mesa Police stated in a press release. La Mesa Police are asking for anyone who witnessed this incident, or has video or photographs, to please contact Lt. Nicholass at 619-667-7512. The surveillance video showed multiple passengers filming or photographing the altercation with their cell phones. La Mesa Police initially responded to a call to assist trolley security after receiving a report that security officers were fighting with a patron. LMPD indicates they were initially told the situation was under control and that trolley security would handle the matter. But after MTS received a complaint and reviewed security video, MTS indicated that the trolley security’s use of force policy may have been violated. After conducting its own internal investigation, MTS provided the video to La Mesa Police and asked La Mesa Police to investigate and determine whether criminal charges should be filed against the trolley security officers. Printer-friendly version
12 viewsCOMICON BOUND? TROLLEY ADDS EXTRA RUNS 6
Total Views: 37 ByNadin Abbott July 5, 2013 (San Diego)—Planning on attending Comic Con International this year starting July 18? Parking is challenging, so consider taking the trolley. The Metropolitan Transit System will have enhanced service for the Green Line starting on Wednesday, preview night. The green line, which serves many east County Communities, will take you directly to the stations in front of the Convention center. The Orange Line will also operate on an extended schedule during the event, and you can transfer to the Green Line at the Grossmont Center Transit station or the Santa Fe Train Depot. MTS will also release commemorative Comic-Con 2-day, 3-day, 4-day and 5-day passes, which cost $10, $13, $16 and $20, respectively. The commemorative passes are sold at ticket booths at select Trolley Stations or The Transit Store at 102 Broadway in downtown. To order in advance, using a debit or credit card, call The Transit Store at (619) 234-1060. Day Passes provide unlimited rides on all Trolley lines and most MTS Bus Routes as well. If you chose to buy day passes, you will need an MTS card, for an extra two dollars for the first use. The kiosk take cash only. The machines take credit cards, debit cards and cash. Printer-friendly version
6 viewsTROLLEY SERVICE RESTORED FOLLOWING PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT 2.4K
Total Views: 31 April 17, 2013 (Santee) — Trolley service has been restored in Santee, an Metropolitan Transit spokesperson has informed ECM. At 1:57 p.m. the trolley struck a pedestrian, who has been transported to a local hospital. The trolley drive applied the brake but was unable to avoid the collision, said Rob Schupp. No further details are available at this time. Printer-friendly version
2.4K viewsCLEANUP UP GRAFFITI ALONG TROLLEY TRACKS HITS SNAGS IN EL CAJON 1
Total Views: 25 By Miriam Raftery January 8, 2013 (San Diego’s East County) – A reader asked ECM to look into why graffiti along trolley lines in El Cajon have not yet been cleaned up despite complaints spanning a year. “Several citizens have been more than frustrated,” wrote Maryann Ostermeyer, who said that to date, neither the city nor Metropolitan Transit Service (MTS) has taken responsibility for cleanup. “It has taken a long time, but it is due solely to MTS regs about who and how people work within their ROW (right-of-way),” City Manager Douglas Wililford wrote in an e-mail to Councilman Gary Kendrick in response to ECM’s inquiry. “We have been diligent about this and will continue to be,” he wrote, then cited progress in efforts to work with MTS. MTS requires special training to remove graffiti near the tracks. According to Williford, “Our contractor, AES, has now completed the training with MTS and provided them with the written proof of insurance. This was complete approximately one month ago. Since this time they have been grappling with MTS over removal of graffiti on MTS equipment along the trolley track. They did not want to remove graffiti from the buildings and leave the graffiti on the MTS equipment (power poles, transformers, etc.) that are right next to the buildings they are working on.” The holiday season and rain led to further delays, said Williford, adding, “I’ve instructed them to remove the graffiti that they are able to remove (this will be about 99%) as soon as possible.” He hopes to see the cleanup arranged for next Tuesday, pending MTS arranging for a flag man with the required three-days notice. “Additionally, I’ve asked them to schedule removal along the tracks on at least a monthly basis,” he said. Printer-friendly version
1 viewsMISSING MENTALLY DISABLED MAN MAY HAVE TAKEN TROLLEY TO EL CAJON 2.5K
Total Views: 31 November 23, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)—Chula Vista Police seek public help to locate a missing mentally disabled man who had written “El Cajon” on a notepad shortly before he was last seen at 7:18 a.m. this morning at the H Street trolley station. Heriberto Tari, 48, was last seen wearing a burnt-orange dress shirt, black dress pants and black shoes. He has a hunched-over posture and communicates by writing on a notepad that he carries. He is 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 145 pounds. He is known to walk quickly and can cover a lot of distance. Though last seen at the trolley station in Chula Vista, it is unknown whether he boarded the trolley. View a missing person flyer here: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2012-11/1179/59629/12-15509_Heriberto_Tari_missing_person_flyer.doc Printer-friendly version
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