MTA WORKS TO REPAIR DOWNED WIRES, DAMAGED TRACK

Light Rail Service Could Be Impacted Through Thursday

BALTIMORE, MD (AUGUST 30, 2011) –  The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has contracted local and out of state crews to help repair extensive damage to the Light Rail system. Over 3,500 feet of catenary wire was damaged by trees that were toppled by Hurricane Irene. Sections of track were also damaged when the high voltage wires made contact with the rails. Tree cutting crews have been working around the clock since Sunday morning to remove debris so catenary repair teams can reach the damaged wires.

At least five locations suffered severe damage, including a section of track just south of Northern Parkway along I-83 and south of the Woodberry Light Rail station. Three of the locations were repaired as of Tuesday afternoon.  Repair crews from Norfolk, Virginia and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania are assisting MTA workers.

Light Rail service was temporarily suspended Saturday evening in anticipation of potential damage from the storm. Service was restored Sunday from North Avenue to BWI-Cromwell/Glen Burnie.

The MTA expects to have service fully restored Thursday. Shuttle buses will continue to operate from North Avenue to Hunt Valley until the repairs are complete. Customers including students and State Fair goers are encouraged to monitor the MTA website for service updates, and anticipate delays in their regular travel time. A separate shuttle bus will transport Poly-Western students from the North Avenue Light Rail station to school during the morning commute.

For general information on MTA service, visit www.mta.maryland.gov. Customers can also call the MTA Transit Information Center Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. at 410-539-5000.
TTY: 410-539-3497. To sign-up for email about service modifications and delays, go to www.mta.maryland.gov/enotifications.