Metro-North president's one-year anniversary message

To our valued Metro-North customers:

One year ago, I had the honor of becoming the seventh president of Metro-North Railroad. On this anniversary, I want to take a moment to simply say thank you.

Every improvement we've made, every record we've broken, and every milestone we've reached this past year has been in service to you. I'm proud to share some of what our extraordinary team has accomplished, and how it has strengthened the service you rely on every day.

You showed up, and so did we

In 2025, Metro-North set multiple post-pandemic ridership records, including a single-day high of nearly 259,000 riders and an all-time monthly record of nearly 6.8 million rides in October. Commuter ridership increased 10.4% year over year, while non-commuter ridership continues to exceed pre-pandemic levels.

These results reflect the trust you place in Metro-North and the vital role the railroad plays across our region. Behind every trip is a person we are privileged to serve. For us, it's not just about moving trains, it's about meeting the needs of the communities that depend on them.

On-time performance, faster trips, and a modern fleet

In 2025, Metro-North achieved a 97.8% on-time performance rate, our sixth consecutive year above 97%. We expanded Super Express service on the New Haven Line, reducing travel times by up to 10 minutes, and introduced new Super Express trains between Poughkeepsie and Grand Central Terminal, because your time matters.

We also welcomed new American-made Siemens Charger dual-mode locomotives into service, on time and on budget, delivering greater power, improved fuel efficiency, and up to 85% fewer emissions.

At the same time, our Heritage Locomotives captured attention across social media, celebrating the railroad's rich history in a way that resonated with riders. And the return of our Holiday Lights trains, both electric and diesel, brought joy across the system, reminding us all of the pride and purpose behind this work.

Building a better railroad for you

We are making critical investments to improve your experience today and for generations to come. Phase 1 of the Park Avenue Viaduct replacement was completed ahead of schedule and under budget, modernizing 132-year-old infrastructure without disrupting service.

Station improvements are underway at Woodlawn, Williamsbridge, and Botanical Garden in the Bronx, enhancing accessibility and comfort. We are also advancing Penn Station Access, which will create new connections and expand travel options across the region.

These efforts are supported by a historic $7.7 billion capital plan, more than double the previous investment, ensuring Metro-North continues to evolve and improve.

Staying connected with you

We are committed to keeping you informed and engaged. That's why we relaunched Mileposts, our quarterly customer newsletter, to share updates on service, projects, and the people behind the railroad.

It was also a pleasure to connect with many of you at our Connect With Us and Station Talk events. Your feedback directly shapes our priorities and helps guide our work.

We were especially proud to welcome the community back for the New Haven Open House, our first in nearly 30 years, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the people, technology, and dedication that keep Metro-North moving every day.

Our promise to you

Through winter storms, flooding, and extreme cold, our teams showed up, because we know you depend on us. Safety remains our highest priority, and every day, the dedicated employees of Metro-North come to work ready to earn your trust.

It is an honor to serve as President of this great railroad. This past year has been deeply meaningful to me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead such an exceptional team. I look forward to building on this momentum and continuing our shared success.

On behalf of everyone at Metro-North, thank you for allowing us to be part of your daily journey. We are grateful for your loyalty and support, and we look forward to serving you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

With gratitude,

Justin Vonashek
President, Metro-North Railroad