Key Highlights
Navigating St. Louis is simple with the MetroLink light rail system. Here’s what you need to know about this convenient form of metro transit:
- The system features two main lines: the Red Line and the Blue Line.
- The Red Line provides a direct link to St. Louis Lambert International Airport.
- Both lines share tracks to serve key downtown areas like the Civic Center.
- MetroLink operates more like a rapid transit service with its own right-of-way.
- A proposed Green Line along Jefferson Avenue was canceled, with alternatives now being explored.
- Each MetroLink station is designed to be fully accessible for all riders.
Overview of MetroLink Red and Blue Lines
The St. Louis MetroLink is a 46-mile light rail system that makes getting around the Greater St. Louis area a breeze. This mass transit network is operated by Metro Transit and consists of two primary routes: the Red Line and the Blue Line. These lines are your ticket to exploring both Missouri and Illinois, connecting communities and major destinations efficiently.
Each MetroLink line serves dozens of stations, but the main lines you’ll use are the Red and Blue. The Red Line runs from Lambert Airport to the Shiloh-Scott station in Illinois. The Blue Line starts in Shrewsbury and travels to Fairview Heights. For a significant portion of their journey, these two lines share the same track, offering frequent rapid transit service through the heart of the city.
System Map and Route Highlights
Wondering where you can go on the MetroLink? You can find an official system map on the Metro St. Louis website, which details all station locations and connections. The system is designed for simplicity, with the Red and Blue lines covering extensive ground. These lines overlap for 16 stations, creating a high-frequency corridor through the most popular parts of the city.
The Red Line’s route highlights include its starting point at St. Louis Lambert International Airport and its path through the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus. The Blue Line originates near the River des Peres in Shrewsbury and provides access to major shopping centers like the Saint Louis Galleria. The light rail vehicles on both lines are modern and comfortable for your commute.
To help you visualize your trip, here’s a quick look at some key route highlights for each line before they merge.
| Line | Key Stations and Destinations |
|---|---|
| Red Line | Lambert Airport T1 & T2, UMSL North & South, Delmar Loop |
| Blue Line | Shrewsbury, Maplewood, Brentwood, Clayton |
Key Neighborhoods and Attractions Accessible
One of the best features of the MetroLink is its ability to provide direct access to some of St. Louis’s most vibrant neighborhoods and attractions. Whether you’re commuting to the central business district for work or planning a weekend outing, the light rail can get you there without the hassle of traffic or parking.
From the arts and culture of the Central West End to the excitement of a game near the Stadium station, the shared portion of the Red and Blue lines puts the city at your fingertips. The train stops right in the middle of the action, making it easy to explore on foot. Are you a nature lover or a sports fan?
You can easily reach these popular spots:
- Forest Park
- Cortex Innovation Community
- Saint Louis University
- Union Station
- The Gateway Arch (via Laclede’s Landing)
- Civic Center attractions
Current Status and Reliability of MetroLink
Metro Transit is actively working to enhance the current status and reliability of its rapid transit service. After a significant flood in 2022 caused considerable damage, the system has undergone extensive repairs with support from the Federal Transit Administration. Normal service has been fully restored, and Metro is now focused on future-proofing the system against similar events.
A major focus right now is the Secure Platform Plan, a system-wide initiative to improve rider safety and security. This project, along with ongoing maintenance and upgrades to tracks and tunnels, demonstrates a strong commitment to making the MetroLink a dependable and secure choice for public transit. These efforts aim to improve your travel experience and ensure the system’s long-term reliability.
Service Frequency and Operating Hours
Planning your trip on the MetroLink is straightforward, thanks to its consistent service frequency. During peak times, trains typically run every 10 minutes on the shared portion of the track. In the evenings and on weekends, the headway between trains is usually around 20 minutes. This frequent service on both the Red Line service and Blue Line service means you rarely have a long wait.
The system’s operating hours are designed to accommodate most schedules, running from early in the morning until late at night. For specific times and to plan your journey down to the minute, it is always best to check the official Metro St. Louis website or use their transit app. These tools provide real-time arrival information and can help you map out your route, including any transfers to MetroBus.
Keep in mind that while the fare collection system is being upgraded as part of a larger light rail project, you can purchase tickets at vending machines located at every station. Just validate your ticket before boarding and enjoy the ride.
Public Transit Safety and Accessibility
Your safety is a top priority for the MetroLink light rail system. A key initiative to enhance public transit safety is the Secure Platform Plan project. This multi-million dollar effort involves installing new security gates and turnstiles at all 38 stations. The project, which has received significant funding, aims to create a more secure and controlled environment on station platforms.
In addition to the new gates, the plan includes a new fare collection system, more fencing, and over 1,800 cameras monitored at a dedicated security center. These measures are designed to ensure that only paying customers can access the platforms, greatly enhancing the overall security of the system.
Furthermore, accessibility is a core feature of MetroLink. Every station is equipped for level boarding, making it easy for individuals with disabilities, or those with strollers or luggage, to get on and off the trains. This commitment to both safety and accessibility helps ensure a reliable and welcoming experience for all riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the proposed Green Line for St. Louis light rail and why was it cancelled?
The proposed Green Line was a 5.6-mile light rail expansion planned primarily along Jefferson Avenue. The Green Line project was canceled in 2024 mainly due to its high price tag, estimated at $1.1 billion. Following this project news, officials decided to explore more affordable alternatives, such as bus rapid transit, for the corridor.
Does the St. Louis Metro go to the airport?
Yes, the MetroLink provides a direct connection to St. Louis Lambert International Airport. You can take the Red Line service from stations like the Civic Center directly to the Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 MetroLink stations. This makes metro transit a convenient and affordable option for getting to and from the airport.
Is it better to ride the bus or the light rail in St. Louis?
The choice between the bus and light rail depends on your destination. The MetroLink light rail offers rapid transit along its fixed Red and Blue line corridors, making it faster for longer distances. The MetroBus network provides more extensive coverage across the region. Using a combination of both is often the best way to navigate St. Louis mass transit.