San Juan’s Train Is Free to Ride, but Not for Much Longer

Puerto Rico plans to modernise San Juan’s metro, the Tren Urbano, at an estimated cost of $227.6 million, according to International Railway Journal. The Federal Transit Administration is providing $226.1 million, with a further $1.5 million coming from a hurricane insurance claim. The 17.2 km system opened in 2004 and serves 16 stations.

The money is split across several areas. Refurbishing all 16 stations, the operations and maintenance center and the electrification systems accounts for $183 million. Emergency generators take $20 million, passenger information systems and maintenance equipment $18.8 million, and a mobile traction-power substation $5.7 million.

The transportation authority’s executive director, Josué Menéndez Agosto, said the works will be delivered while maintaining service at all 16 stations. The article does not give a completion date or a contractor.

One detail stands out for riders: the system has operated without passenger fares since March 2024, and authorities are preparing to restore fare collection. Visitors to San Juan who plan to use the train may want to check current fare rules before they travel.

Sources: International Railway Journal, International Railway Journal (passenger)