Metrolink has launched a new mobile website that allows its patrons to access vital information about the commuter rail system while on the go.

A Google Maps enhanced trip planner, service updates from Twitter, schedules, a system map and station information are all accessible from the new mobile-friendly interface.

I gave the site a whirl from my iPhone and I have to say – I’m impressed. Pointing the iPhone’s browser to metrolinktrains.com, the same URL used to access the full-fledged site, automatically loads the mobile site.

The home page is simple in the best way possible. Eight large, touch-friendly buttons make navigating the site a breeze. Each section loads quickly and seem perfectly optimized for the smartphone. The service alerts page in particular looks like it will be of great use to Metrolink riders who don’t follow the agency on Twitter.

In a press release, posted after the jump, Metrolink calls the site a beta release – but clearly the agency did their homework before launching this one.

On a side note: Metro’s own mobile site has received a quiet update. Service alerts from Twitter are now featured prominently on the home page and a tab has been added for news which features the latest headlines from The Source. Check it out on the mobile web at m.metro.net.

Metrolink Launches New Mobile Website Giving Customers More Information And Options

11/15/2010

Saving time, money and being more environmentally friendly just got easier now that Metrolink has implemented a BETA launch of its new, mobile website.  Effective today, customers can visit Metrolinktrains.com from their web-enabled cellular devices, and they will automatically be directed to the new mobile site.  The new site features:

• Service Updates – NEW! See the feed from our twitter updates

• Trip Planner – Google Transit

• News – News Updates and Commuter Updates

• Schedules – NEW!

• Station Guide – Maps, links and information about each Metrolink station

• Special Offers – Promotions and more

“This is one of the many customer-focused initiatives Metrolink has implemented to provide additional value to our customer,” said John E. Fenton, Metrolink CEO. “Riding Metrolink is an environmentally-friendly, cost-effective solution for Southern Californians and it just became even more convenient with the new mobile website.”

Metrolink provides up-to-date train status information about each of the lines it operates on Twitter @MetrolinkOC, @MetrolinkIEOC, @Metrolink91, @MetrolinkVC, @MetrolinkANT, @MetrolinkRIV, and @MetrolinkSB.  Metrolink is also on Facebook, Foursquare and has a blog.