I mentioned in the transportation headlines this morning that the U.S. Department of Transportation had released its annual compendium of transpo stats–in this case, covering the year 2008. The timing is convenient since today is also the 20thanniversary of the opening of the Blue Line and the beginning of Metro Rail.

The list at the right — click on it to see a larger image — shows how Metro’s rail program compares to other parts of the nation. In 2008, Metro had the second-largest light rail network (the six-mile Gold Line Eastside Extension has since opened) and Metrolink was one of the longest commuter rail networks in the country.

Metro doesn’t have as much heavy rail as other parts of the nation, but that’s not surprising — heavy rail is usual older subway systems or other elevated lines.