MARC Launches Largest Expansion Of Rail Service In More Than A Decade
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The trip to Washington, D.C. just got a little bit easier. Saturday, the Maryland Transit Administration launched the start of weekend MARC train service between Washington and Baltimore.
Derek Valcourt explains it's the largest expansion of the commuter rail service in more than 10 years.
Until now, MARC trains from Baltimore to Washington were reserved for Monday through Friday service only. It's great for weekday commuters, but a tough deal for people like Johnathon Clark of Baltimore, who likes visiting friends in D.C. on the weekend.
"I had to take the B30 bus and that was kind of a hassle. Taking the MARC train will cut all of that out," Clark said.
Now, nine trains on Saturday and six trains on Sunday will run between the two cities, all thanks to a $46 million state investment designed to help better connect the region's two major metropolitan areas.
"Maryland's future, Baltimore's future is bright because we are building and investing in a modern infrastructure and in transportation networks. And those investments don't stop on the weekend," said Lt. Governor Anthony Brown.
With a stop at BWI, the weekend train service is also seen as an advantage to travelers, and the $7 one-way ticket is a bargain for those looking to visit D.C. and come back to Baltimore.
"I really like doing the train service but it's a little too expensive on Amtrak. So the fact that MARC's doing it on the weekend is convenient. Seven bucks, you get down there in an hour...it's great," said Brendan Boland.
"Easy ride," said Jodie Misiak.
Misiak is among those who rode the first weekend MARC train Saturday morning.
"We're happy. We live walking distance to the train station and use it on the weekdays, so now we are just going to use it more on the weekend," Misiak said.
MTA officials say after about six months, they will reassess the weekend service schedule to make sure it's meeting the needs of their customers.
For a list of train stops, times and schedules, click here.
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