Light Rail Operator Availability Improved as a Result of Recruiting Efforts

BALTIMORE, MD (April 20, 2023) – The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration today announced that Light Rail will resume its regular weekday service levels beginning Monday, April 24. Light Rail trains will return to operating every 10 minutes during the weekday morning and evening peak travel periods, an increase from the current intervals of 15-minutes.

In July 2022, the Maryland Transit Administration adjusted Light Rail schedules to improve service reliability and align service levels with operator availability. As a result of the temporary service changes, on-time performance improved from 80% in June 2022 to near 95% during the first three months of 2023. Over the past year, the agency has increased the number of light rail operators hired through a combination of pay increases and increased outreach efforts.

“Last year the agency temporarily adjusted Light Rail schedules to ensure riders had a schedule they could rely on,” said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “While our recruitment efforts will continue, we are excited to be able to increase service and provide our riders with the service frequency they deserve.”

An updated Light Rail schedule reflecting the new 10-minute peak travel intervals will be posted Sunday, April 23, at mta.maryland.gov/schedule/lightrail.

The agency continues to recruit for bus and rail operators in addition to mechanics and other positions. These career positions come with competitive pay and benefits. Anyone interested in joining the transit administration team can applying by visiting mta.maryland.gov/join.

The Maryland Transit Administration is one of the largest multi-modal transit systems in the United States, and operates local and commuter buses, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC Train service and a comprehensive Mobility paratransit system. The goal of the Maryland Transit Administration is to provide safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. To learn more, visit mta.maryland.gov, check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/mtamaryland and follow us on Twitter @mtamaryland.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jerimiah Moerke                               
Office: 410-767-8367                         
Cell: 667-392-3625
jmoerke@mdot.maryland.gov

Paul Shepard
Office: 410-767-3935
Cell: 443-622-4181
pshepard@mdot.maryland.gov    

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