Connecticut Commuter Advocate Joins Metro-North Critics

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A member of a Connecticut commuter advocacy panel has joined a chorus of critics of Metro-North Railroad.

Mitch Fuchs appeared before the state Legislature's Executive and Legislative Nominations Committee on Tuesday, saying he does not serve happily on the board of the Connecticut Rail Commuter Council.

Fuchs, who lives in Fairfield, said Metro-North does a poor job providing information and communicating with commuters. He also said Metro-North has failed to add rail cars when thousands of additional commuters are expected for special events.

Metro-North has acknowledged its problems including two derailments -- including a fatal one in the Bronx in December -- and stranded passengers at a Connecticut station and reduced service in September when power was knocked out.

The commuter rail service promises an improvement plan and its executives are scheduled to meet with Connecticut legislators on Thursday.

Fuchs isn't the first person to express frustration with the Connecticut Rail Commuter Council. Last month, its former chairman Jim Cameron said the panel lacked a clear mission and was being too pliant in the hands of Gov. Dannel Malloy.

A couple of weeks later, a member of the watchdog group said things were back on track and that the council had elected officers and adopted rules.

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