MARC Riders Adjust to New Penn Line Schedule

Officials from the Maryland Transit Administration said there have been some “growing pains” associated with the new schedule of the MARC Penn Line, but that things went well overall during first two weeks since the change.

In an email to rail commuters, officials from MARC reminded riders of new trains and added capacity during rush hour, while also offering tips on ensuring a seat on trains during peak periods.

MARC said that Train 517, which departs Penn Station in Baltimore at 7:15 a.m., is the most crowded train. MARC suggested riders consider taking train 415, which leaves Odenton about 15 minutes earlier.

The rail service also said riders should be aware that there are often seats available on trains even when it seems like standing-room only conditions. MARC said it received several e-mails about crowded conditions on the 4:20 p.m. express train from Union Station, but a ride check performed on March 17 found 55 seats available in the back of the train even though riders were standing in other cars.

“If you don’t see seats in the car you board in, check other adjacent cars,” MARC said.

MARC reminded riders of the new trains, including 5 a.m. and 6:45 a.m. departures from Baltimore’s Penn Station, along with a 4:10 p.m. and 5:50 p.m. departure from Union Station in Washington. The new trains and adjusted schedule added 1,000 available seats during rush hour.

“Your understanding and patience as you and your fellow commuters get adjusted to the new schedule is truly appreciated,” MARC said.