Metra marks four decades and millions of trips with free rides, giveaways

What do the Rock Island, Milwaukee Road, Illinois Central Gulf and Chicago & North Western railroads have in common?

They’re all part of Metra, once known as the Regional Transportation Authority’s Commuter Rail Division, which held its first board meeting on June 8, 1984.

The blend of historical private railroads and partnerships with freight giants turns 40 years old on Saturday.

To mark the milestone, Metra plans a week of events culminating in free rides Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9.

“Whether you have been riding Metra for 40 years or took your first ride today, we want to thank you,” Executive Director Jim Derwinski said in a statement.

“And as we look to the past and celebrate four decades of serving the Chicago area’s transportation needs, we are also looking to the future and making plans to continue that service for many more decades.”

For perspective, Metra ran 3,481 trains a week in 1984 compared to 3,765 in 2024. A one-way ticket to the most remote station was $5.80 in 1984 in contrast with $6.75 now. And, riders have 92,387 parking spaces currently contrasted with 52,602 in 1984.

Here’s what riders can expect.

• Monday: Passengers are asked to share favorite memories of Metra on social media.

• Tuesday: Morning commuters will receive a gift, including coupons from local businesses, at downtown stations.

• Wednesday: Got a favorite seatmate? Metra is asking train buddies to share photos on social media.

• Thursday: Metra will remember the 1980s with “Throwback Thursday” trivia on social media.

• Friday: Riders can share their top travel destinations on social media.

For a history of Metra, go to metra.com.