Metra getting rid of saloon cars

Saloon cars, a long-time fixture on the commuter trains operating between downtown Chicago and its suburbs, are being phased out by the Metra commuter rail system.

Friday will be the last call for the passengers who regularly ride the 10 trains with bar cars.

The cars hearken back to the days when executives in gray flannel suits climbed aboard club cars and consumed martinis to make the journey home a mellow one.

Chicago and New York are believed to be the only cities where riders could still buy a drink aboard a commuter train.

Mantill Williams of the American Public Transportation Association said transit agencies are concerned about what happens after passengers who have had a few drinks hop into their cars.

However, Metra officials say concern about alcohol isn't the reason the cars are going. They say the bar cars aren't worth the revenue they produce.