Merry Christmas and MARC Schedule Reminder

December 24, "S" (limited) schedule on Penn and Brunswick Lines, no service on the Camden Line

December 25, No MARC Train Service

December 26 and 27, "S" (limited) schedule on Penn and Brunswick Lines, no service on the Camden Line

December 28, regularly-scheduled Saturday Penn Line service

December 29, regularly-scheduled Sunday Penn Line service

December 30, Full service on all three MARC lines

December 31, "S" (limited) schedule on Penn and Brunswick Lines, no service on the Camden Line

January 1, 2014, No MARC Train Service

January 2, 2014 and going forward, Full MARC service on all three lines; Penn Line weekend service continues to operate as scheduled.

Source: http://mta.maryland.gov/advisories/updated-marc-holiday-service-december

Reminder: MARC End-of-Year Schedule

MARC Train Service will operate on the following schedules during Holidays in December. 

**Camden Line passengers are reminded that Camden Line tickets (one-way, weekly, and monthly) are always honored to equal zones on the Penn Line.**

--December 23, Full service on all three MARC lines

--December 24, "S" (limited) schedule on Penn and Brunswick Lines, no service on the Camden Line

--December 25, No MARC Train Service

--December 26 and 27, "S" (limited) schedule on Penn and Brunswick Lines, no service on the Camden Line

--December 28, regularly-scheduled Saturday Penn Line service

--December 29, regularly-scheduled Sunday Penn Line service

--December 30, Full service on all three MARC lines

--December 31, "S" (limited) schedule on Penn and Brunswick Lines, no service on the Camden Line

--January 1, 2014, No MARC Train Service

--January 2, 2014 and going forward, Full MARC service on all three lines; Penn Line weekend service continues to operate as scheduled.

Source: MTA Alerts Email Mon 12/16/13 2:38 PM

..passengers are reminded that
when the Brunswick Line is operating on an "S" schedule, the last departure from Union Station is at 6:20pm (Train 881).  This train will make all stops between Washington and Martinsburg.  Frederick County "Meet the MARC" buses will operate from Point of Rocks to Frederick.  Trains 895 and 883 (6:40 and 7:25pm departures from Union Station) WILL NOT operate.

West Virginia passengers should also note that Train 875 (4:25pm departure) does not operate on the "S" schedule.  However, Train 877 (4:55pm departure) will operate through to Martinsburg, making all stops.

Finally, there will be an additional PanTran connecting bus to meet Train 873 (3:30pm departure) at Brunswick, for a total of 3 buses.

 

Source: MTA Alerts Email Mon 12/16/13 2:48 PM

Changes to Federal Transit Benefits Effective January 1, 2014

A message to MARC Train and Commuter Bus passengers that use Electronic Smart Benefits to pay for their tickets—

Effective January 1, 2014, the maximum Federal transit allowance will drop from $245 to $130.  MARC Train and Commuter Bus passengers will need to adjust their allocations with Commuter Direct and, if necessary, update their second form of payment in order to receive their ticket(s).

 
If Commuter Direct does not receive full payment for your ticket--Smart Benefits, credit card, cash, or check--they will not issue your January ticket(s).

Please contact Commuter Direct by email at questions@CommuterDirect.com or visit their website at www.mta.commuterdirect.com with any questions regarding your account.    

In the event that the United States Congress takes action to maintain the $245 benefit level, we will let you know.

Source:
MTA Alert Email, Thu 12/05/13 4:32 PM

Gaithersburg Police Offer Tips for a Safe Holiday Season

The Gaithersburg Police Department would like to remind citizens to be safe during the holiday season with some of these safety tips:
If you are traveling:

• Get an automatic timer for your lights.
  
• Ask a neighbor to watch your home and park in the driveway from time to time, if possible.
  
• Don’t forget to have mail and newspaper deliveries stopped.

If you are out for the evening:

• Turn on lights and a radio or TV, to give the appearance of someone being home.
  
• Be sure to lock doors and windows, even if you’ll only be gone for a few minutes.
  
• Do not display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.

If you are shopping:

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
  
• Park in well-lighted areas.
  
• Be sure to lock your car and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
  
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay with a check or credit/debit card when possible.
  
• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Don't overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

In an effort to be proactive during this holiday season, the police department will be deploying its theft from auto “Bait Car” in various shopping centers. The “Bait Car” is a vehicle operated by the police which contains valuable items to draw attention to it. In some cases, the vehicle may be left unlocked. The “Bait Car” is equipped to immediately notify officers when a theft or attempted theft from the vehicle is made, and the criminal activity of the suspect(s) is video recorded.

For more information please contact the Gaithersburg Police Department at 301-258-6400 or visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov/police.

Source:
http://www.gaithersburgmd.gov/poi/default.asp?POI_ID=309&TOC=107%3B85%3B309%3B&id=6524

Local Employment Support Group Guest Speaker

MARC Quick Info Guide

MTA INFORMATION Fare or Schedule Info 410-539-5000 Toll-free 866-RIDE-MTA (743-3682) Commuter Choice Transit Benefits Info 410-767-8750 Commuter Choice www.commuterchoicemaryland.com MTA Police 410-454-7720 TTY 410-539-3497 Website www.mta.maryland.gov		WMATA INFORMATION Customer Comment Line 202-637-1328 Fare or Schedule Info 202-637-7000 SmartBenefits Employer Fare Program 202-962-1326 SmartBenefits eMail smartprograms@wmata.com Transit Police 202-962-2121 TTY 202-638-3780 Website www.wmata.com
Guaranteed Ride Home Program 1-800-745-RIDE(7433) TTY 202-962-3212   Website www.commuterconnections.org

Source: October 2013 On Your MARC; Fri 10/04/13 12:12 PM

Courtesy Toward Your MARC Train Neighbor

Courtesy is contagious, but as we get caught up in our daily commute we often forget to consider the comfort of our fellow commuters. This includes cell phone usage, placing items on the seat next to you, and the use of perfumes and colognes. To ensure that everyone has a safe and pleasant trip, please be aware of the following rules:

• Passengers must allow conductors, or any authorized representative, to inspect all tickets or cash fare receipts upon request. Tickets may be inspected more than once during a trip. Tickets must be removed from any carrying case if requested by the conductor.
• No seats are reserved on MARC Trains. Please do not inconvenience others by holding or blocking seats with parcels, clothing or other items.
• Most railcars contain designated seating for senior citizens and passengers with disabilities. These seats must be provided to these persons if requested.
• Smoking is prohibited (includes electronic cigarettes) onboard MARC Trains or inside MTA owned stations, waiting areas, or on MTA-owned or leased platforms. Amtrak policies apply at Amtrak owned stations (Washington, New Carrollton, BWI Marshall Airport and Baltimore Penn Station).
• Do not stand in aisles when seats are available. Standing is never allowed on stairs or in vestibules. Please allow the conductors to walk through the cars for ticket collection, or any emergencies that may arise.
• Improper conduct, intoxication, offensive actions or language that is objectionable to other passengers and/or the train crew, or is disruptive to the safe operation of the train is not permitted.

Thank you for helping to make the MARC Train Service a pleasant experience for everyone!

Source: October 2013 On Your MARC; Fri 10/04/13 12:12 PM

News for MARC Commuters

Good news for our sister Lines on the MARC:
Weekend Service on the Penn Line Starts December 7, 2013

The first-ever weekend MARC Train service will start on the Penn Line on Saturday, December 7. The new service, part of nearly $1.5 billion in transportation investments for the Baltimore metropolitan area that was announced by Governor Martin O'Malley last month, will provide nine round trips on Saturdays and six round trips on Sundays. The Governor also announced plans to add 10 new energy-efficient diesel locomotives. These state-of-the-art locomotives, part of the state's overall program to increase the capacity and reliability of MARC Train Service, are more powerful than those they are replacing, have better fuel economy, and meet stringent new federal emission requirements.

Source: October 2013 On Your MARC; Fri 10/04/13 12:12 PM

25th Anniversary of Union Station

On Monday, September 30, Union Station Redevelopment Corporation (USRC), Amtrak, Ashkenazy Acquisition Corporation (AAC), and Federal City Council will mark the 25th anniversary of the historic grand reopening of Washington Union Station with select activities throughout the station, including:

--Photo displays of the station’s evolution, along with artifacts and station restoration facts placed throughout the West Hall and Main Hall.

--An interactive model of the station’s master plan, highlighting the future vision to further expand the station and rail yard into a greater multimodal and commercial hub. Amtrak and Akridge (our development partner) representatives will be onsite from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. to present the model and answer questions.

--The Union Station Preservation Coalition will be onsite to provide information on the station’s history and architecture.

--Select Union Station retail and food merchants will offer exclusive one-day promotions. A list of participating retailers can be found by visiting https://mta.maryland.gov/advisories/marc-celebrates-25th-anniversary-union-station-rennovation .

--A video display of the “Union Station 25th Anniversary”, developed by The Federal City Council with an introduction by Mr. Boardman. You can also view the video on our Great American Stations website next week.

Washington Union Station reopened its doors on September 29, 1988, with a full-day of celebration capped with a gala dinner after a three-year transformative rehabilitation project. The largest public/private partnership of its kind at that time funded the $160 million restoration effort as a result of the Union Station Redevelopment Act of 1981 establishing the effort to restore the station to its historic grandeur.

“This collaborative rehabilitation project provided Amtrak with a home for its national corporate headquarters, served as the catalyst for neighborhood development, and helped spark a renaissance of national passenger rail service,” said Amtrak President and CEO, Joe Boardman. “Since the station’s reopening, Amtrak ridership in Washington, D.C., has more than doubled and we continue to see record growth.”

Today, the station serves over 32 million visitors annually, and there is a continued focus on station enhancements. Future plans to improve and expand the station are on the horizon guided by the Union Station Master Plan.

For more information on the Union Station Redevelopment efforts, visit http://usrcdc.com/anniversary.php

Source:

MARC Service Alert <marc@mtamarylandalerts.com>Fri 09/27/13 2:59 PM

Things to Consider While Traveling on MARC

MTA sent out the following recently. I wanted to re-share this because there are many crazy and rude things people do on public transportation. Look carefully. The number one problem is this area is no one thinks the feedback pertains to them.

Over the years, I've seen many disputes because selfish folks think certain seats belong to them. I've also seen folks refuse to move their bags off seats of crowded trains denying someone a place to sit. I've also heard about physical fights. Not sure what's wrong with Metro DC area folks. But, yes, you do have a problem.

"We appreciate your patronage of the MARC Train Service.  As our ridership continues to grow, courtesy to your fellow passengers is more important than ever.  Here are a few reminders to make everyone’s trip more enjoyable.

--Passengers must follow instructions and directions of Conductors while on board the train at all times.

--No seats are reserved on MARC.  All seats are available on a first come, first served basis.  In order for everyone to have a seat on our rush hour trains, please do not block seats with personal items.  This includes the middle seat on our single level railcars.

--Please do not block the aisles or doorways, especially when approaching a station.  If it is not your stop, please remain seated or, if standing, clear of the doors.

--Passengers must refrain from using profane, abusive and racist language and intimidation of fellow passengers.  Violators are subject to removal from the train.

--Quiet Cars are available on all MARC rush hour trains.  Cell phones and all electronic devices must be on silent or vibrate, and cell phone conversations are not permitted.  However, conversations between passengers in a library-like tone are permitted.

Thank you for riding the MARC Train Service."

 

Source:

Email Alert - Fri 09/06/13 1:57 PM

Reminder: What are MARC Heat Orders?

Passengers on the Brunswick and Camden Lines often see messages during the spring and summer informing them that there are “heat orders” in effect. CSX Transportation, the owner of the Brunswick and Camden Lines, reduces the maximum speed of passenger trains by 20mph (but not under 40mph) under one or both of the following conditions:

• Consistent ambient temperatures of 85 degrees or greater
• A 25 degree swing in temperatures either warmer or colder in a 24-hour period.

Criteria for heat orders are more stringently implemented when trackwork has recently taken place. Newly-installed rail and ties are more likely to shift in high heat and fluctuating temperature conditions. An example of a sunkink can be viewed by clicking here.

Typically, heat orders cause delays of 5-15 minutes. The less stops that a train makes and thus the more time a train spends operating a maximum authorized speed (such as Brunswick Line train 875 or Camden Line train 852), the greater the impact the heat orders will have on maintaining schedules.
 
In addition, CSX dispatches track inspectors to check the rails during these conditions. This requires one of two tracks to be out of service and may cause additional delays.

Our colleagues at the Virginia Railway Express have written an extensive explanation of heat orders, which can be found on their website.

Heat orders do not take effect on the Penn Line until temperatures reach 95 or 100 degrees, and these restrictions relate primarily to the overhead electric wires. Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor is a heavily-engineered, high speed railroad and much less prone to sun kinks because there is much more frequent, high-speed service, which discourages sun kinks from forming. Also, the Camden and Brunswick Lines have many more curves than the Penn Line does, limiting engineers’ ability to see track defects. It is important to note that this does not mean that CSX tracks are unsafe—CSX maintains its tracks in compliance with all Federal Railroad Administration regulations.


Source:
http://mta.maryland.gov/advisories/what-are-heat-orders

FYI: World Hepatitis Day

From WHO's Facebook page:

World Health Organization (WHO)

What causes hepatitis A and E, how can you protect yourself from infection?

Check out the infographic and these materials:

Fact sheet on hepatitis A: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs328/en/index.html

More on all five hepatitis viruses: http://www.who.int/campaigns/hepatitis-day/2013/en/index.html





(c) WHO

 

MARC Camden and Brunswick Lines

Maryland Transit Administration

MARC Customers, we know this comes as no surprise:

CSX has issued heat-related speed restrictions on the Camden and Brunswick Lines for this afternoon. Trains will travel at reduced speed on both lines. 5-15 minute delays are possible--the fewer stops a train makes, the more delay it will incur (since express trains operate longer distances at a higher rate of speed).

For passengers unfamiliar with heat-related speed restrictions, please visit http://tinyurl.com/marchighheat.

 

Source:

MTA Facebook

Summer Heat and Crossover to Metro - Relaxed Beverage Policy

For the time being, Metro is allowing passengers to carry and drink water on their trains. If you need to switch to Metro, keep in mind, this is an exception for them for this heat wave.

Maryland Transit Administration

MTA Customers - Due to the ongoing severe heat throughout the state the agency is temporarily relaxing its ban on beverages. Passengers will be allowed to bring clear water bottles on Metro Subway, Local Bus, Light Rail and Mobility vehicles. The relaxed beverage policy will remain in effect through Sunday, July 21, 2013.

A heat advisory is currently in effect and extreme high temperatures are expected to continue through the weekend. The MTA urges you to take precautions, stay hydrated and check on those who may need assistance.

Source:
MTA Facebook

Commuting and Storm Preparedness

One of the issues with a long commute is what to do if stormy weather prevents you from getting home. (I assume if you can't get in, you sit home and watch the telly.) Make sure you have contact information for other commuters who take your route in as well as your route home. Many times a spouse will take a group to our cars. Sometimes we cab it to our cars and it's a good idea to keep a couple cab company phone numbers in your cell as well.
 
Also be sure to sign up for the Guaranteed Ride Home program. While it may not be available during a true storm emergency, it's great to have it as a backup. Sign-up is easy at www.commuterconnections.org or call 800-745-RIDE (7433).

 

Transportation Infrastructure Investment Act of 2013

Some good news for commuters in the Montgomery County area. Governor O'Malley signed the Transportation Infrastructure Investment Act of 2013 on Thursday, May 16th.

A list of the transit projects first in line involve one in Montgomery County:  I-270/Watkins Mill Road Interchange - for those of us who suffer through the Route 355 traffic to get to Kaiser Permanente's Gaithersburg facility.

And some for MARC, though not the Brunswick Line. The big news is the Baltimore folks will get weekend service on the Penn Line.

The budget will be posted on MDOT.

The bad news is he's paying for it by hiking gas tax at a time when were facing almost $4/gallon in gas prices alone. Estimates say the increased gas tax will be from "13 to 20 cents more per gallon by mid-2016."

Sources:
http://de1059.com/story.php?id=2931

http://www.rebuildingamericasinfrastructure.com/article-comments-maryland_transportation_act_invests_$4.4_billion_in_projects_statewide-1258.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/md-politics/omalley-purple-line-other-washington-area-projects-to-benefit-from-gas-tax-increase/2013/05/16/89829bb8-be5c-11e2-89c9-3be8095fe767_story.html

Invitation: Joseph M. Martin Free Concert Saturday, 5/18/13 @7:30 PM

http://www.gpchurch.org/

Just in from MTA - Guaranteed Ride Home Reminder

Just in:
Do you carpool or vanpool, take transit, bike or walk to work at least twice weekly? You’re eligible for Guaranteed Ride Home!

If you experience a personal illness, family emergency or unscheduled overtime at work, Guaranteed Ride Home will get you home free in a taxi, rental car or transit up to four times per year. Sign-up is easy at commuterconnections.org or call 800-745-RIDE (7433).

With Guaranteed Ride Home, you’re home free!

Source:

MTA Facebook page

Just in from Maryland Transit Administration

 

"On Monday, MARC Train Service opened the new high-level platform at the Halethorpe station. This is a major upgrade for one of our highest capacity Penn Line stations - and pretty good looking too, even if we do say so ourselves! It's designed to significantly reduce the time that the train needs to load and unload at the station, which will benefit all Penn Line commuters.The Northbound platform is scheduled to open in early July."



Facebook image (c)

"Amtrak Penn Line Conductor John Wickham (l) and his Assistant Conductor Tom Ensley (r) oversee boarding of Train 517 on Monday morning on the new Halethorpe platform."



Facebook image (c)

  

Source:

MTA Facebook Page