Note: The video in the player above is from a previous report.
Meter is offering free rides to those heading downtown and around the region this weekend to celebrate a special occasion.
Commemorating his 40th birthday on June 8, Meter will offer free rides on its 11 lines, while also giving travelers the opportunity to see a new museum car making its debut.
In addition to the free trips offered in the 11 lines On both Saturday and Sunday, those headed to downtown Chicago can immerse themselves in a specially equipped car detailing the history of Metra and its predecessors at the LaSalle Street station.
The car will debut from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the LaSalle Street station on June 8, although those who miss it this weekend will have more opportunities.
The museum car will open from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Ogilvie Transportation Center on June 22, before appearing at Chicago Union Station on July 6 and Millennium Station on July 20.
Meter was founded in 1984 to help consolidate passenger rail service in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs as private companies sought to divest their operations in that field. The debut of the LaSalle Street museum car follows a weeklong celebration that included giveaways and trivia contests.
In addition to the free trips being offered this weekend, those attending concerts in Ravinia Festival in Highland Park Free Metra rides to and from the Ravinia Festival will also be offered any time this summer. with a ticket to the concert.
"Whether you've been using Metra for 40 years or took your first ride today, we want to thank you," Metra CEO Jim Derwinski said in a statement. "And as we look back and celebrate four decades of serving the transportation needs of the Chicago area, we also look to the future and make plans to continue that service for many decades to come."
According to the agency's website, June 8, 1984 saw the first board meeting of what eventually became known as Metra. That service has since grown to cover 11 different train lines, spanning more than 500 miles of track throughout the city and suburbs.
More information can be found on the agency's website.
