Vote on Metrolink Airport Stop Delayed

Metrolink directors have postponed for a month a decision on whether to stop trains at Burbank Airport, asking for more study of the idea.

Since the opening last week of a refurbished platform across the street from the airport, Burbank officials and Ventura County transportation planners have pressed Metrolink to add the stop to its Moorpark line, which also has stops in Simi Valley and Camarillo.

Currently, the platform only serves Amtrak trains running between Santa Barbara and San Diego. Amtrak trains use the same track as Metrolink.

Supporters say the stop would encourage airport-bound riders from Ventura County and the western San Fernando Valley to use mass transit, but Metrolink officials note that customers can already catch the train to the downtown Burbank Metrolink station and take a free shuttle to the airport.

The board of the Southern California Regional Rail Authority, which oversees Metrolink, voted Friday to have its staff analyze the proposal more thoroughly, including questions of upgrading the platform to Metrolink standards.