Mechanical Problems Delay MARC Penn Line Trains

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- There were big problems for MARC and Amtrak riders Monday after several trains got delayed or canceled. 

Kai Jackson explains what the problem was and why many riders are growing more and more frustrated.

The MTA is still answering questions after releasing a report about the big summer breakdown.  What happened Monday is one more problem the agency is trying to resolve.

The morning rush hour on the rails came to a grinding halt Monday and passengers were left grinding their teeth in frustration after a Penn Line train leaving Baltimore for D.C. broke down around 6:30 a.m.

"This morning's train stopped right in an interlocking, which impacted trains going both northbound and southbound," said MTA spokesperson Terry Owens.

The MTA says a power loss caused the breakdown just south of Penn Station.  The problem happened with an older model electric train.  Power was restored about 8:30 a.m., nearly two hours after trains were delayed or canceled.

But for some passengers, the damage was already done.

"You'd think they could get you some information.  It's not exactly classified," said Mike Curley, MARC passenger.

"I didn't ever hear any announcements made.  I saw on the board they were delayed from 7:00, and they just said delayed," said Latanya Jenkins, MARC passenger.

"Communication has improved since the summer.  As I ask people, I guess they tell me as best they can, but I think there are still problems," said Jacqui Perry, passenger.

It's estimated that more than one out of 10 MARC trains has been running late this year.