Reaching suburban destinations by train is easier than ever thanks to the growing popularity of car sharing and ride hailing, which enable urbanites to venture beyond the limits of a train stop. Now MTA Metro-North Railroad is making it more affordable, by partnering with Lyft and Zipcar.

 

“We’re always looking to extend the reach of the railroad, to make it more useful for more people,” said Metro-North Railroad President Catherine Rinaldi. “If you have a trip between the city and a suburban destination, taking a combination of Metro-North and car sharing or ride hailing is often easier and more affordable than driving the whole way.”

 

The partnership builds on Metro-North’s “Rail Rewards” program that gives train customers with monthly or weekly tickets access to discounted passes to top attractions, museums, tours and more, for a great night on the town or an easy staycation day. 

 

Two of the most recent Rail Rewards additions help travelers get to or from Metro-North itself, for less. Lyft riders can get up to $5 off their first five rides to or from Metro-North stations through April 2020. Lyft riders should enter the promo code “RAILREWARDS” into the promo section of the Lyft app. The discounts will automatically be deducted based on location of the ride.

 

“We know that for New Yorkers, seamless access to reliable transportation is an essential part of their daily lives,” said Shirley Romig, Lyft Vice President, East. “Lyft is proud to partner with Metro-North Railroad by providing rides that help to connect commuters at both the start and end of their journeys.”

 

Those who want to try car sharing to connect from Metro-North stations can join Zipcar by the end of the year to receive $25 in driving credits. While registering, Zipcar customers should use the promo code “MNRR2019.” Then simply use the app or website to reserve a Zipcar from nearly 20 Metro-North stations. Remember to reserve your car early for popular dates and times.

 

“With Zipcars accessible from nearly twenty Metro-North stations, it’s easier than ever to travel to holiday festivities outside of the city this year,” said Stephanie Aboulafia, Zipcar Regional Community Marketing Manager. “Zipcar is partnering with Metro-North to give new Zipcar members $25 in driving credit, and we encourage members to reserve early to take advantage of vehicles equipped with ski racks when heading to the slopes this season.”

 

For details on Zipcar’s Metro-North station locations, visit zipcar.com/metro-north. Metro-North reserves space at these New York State stations for Zipcars: Beacon, Hastings-on-Hudson, Harriman, Harrison, Irvington, Mamaroneck, Middletown, Mount Kisco, Mount Vernon East, North White Plains, Pearl River, Peekskill, Pelham, Port Chester, Poughkeepsie, Southeast, Spring Valley, Tarrytown and Woodlawn.