Md. rail sets on-time performance record

The month of August was a record setter for the Maryland Transit Administration’s (MTA) MARC train service. The monthly on-time performance measures were the best ever for the 31-day period.

Overall, the MARC system operated at 95% on-time performance (OTP) for August 2012, up from 89% at the same time last year. Year to date, MARC’s OTP is 94% system-wide.

“On time performance is a key indicator of the strides we’re making at MARC,” said MTA Administrator Ralign T. Wells. “We’re proud to hit this mark, especially in the summertime when heat-related speed restrictions can slow down our trains. In the days ahead MTA will continue to focus on MARC operations with the constant goal of delivering quality, reliable service to our customers.”

Substantial capital investments by Gov. Martin O’Malley are driving MARC’s performance. The purchase of new diesel locomotives played a critical role, along with the overhaul of 34 passenger cars. In 2013 the first of 54 new bi-level railcars will be delivered to MARC. These new cars will increase capacity, seating between 125 and 135 passengers each.

The Penn Line carries more than 25,000 of MARC’s 38,000 daily passengers. Those passengers have benefited from an OTP of 95% in August and 94% for the year to date. In fact, there were only five trains that performed below 95% for the month, and just one train below 80%. During the same time period in 2011, the Penn Line showed a 91% OTP number for the month of August. Twenty-three trains recorded perfect 100% OTP figures.

Brunswick Line trains reported 97% OTP for August 2012, and 90% OTP year to date. A record low three trains were below 95% OTP for the month. During August 2011 OTP on the Brunswick Line was 85%. In addition eight trains on the Brunswick Line reported a perfect OTP of 100% in August.

The Camden Line numbers are equally encouraging. On-time performance hit 95% in August with year-to-date performance at 96%. Only two trains on the Camden Line performed below 95% for the entire month. This compares to a 91% OTP in August 2011. Four trains on the Camden Line reported a perfect 100% for August 2012.