(Baltimore, MD) April 9, 2008 – In an effort to address the popularity of its MARC Train services, the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) announced today its plans to purchase 26 GPS 40, 3600 horsepower, diesel locomotives. The new locomotives will be more powerful, fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly.
“Our customers will soon enjoy increased flexibility and reliability in a service that continues to grow in popularity,” said Paul J. Wiedefeld, MTA Administrator. “The purchase of these locomotives will allow MARC to better serve its growing needs.”
The Board of Public Works approved the purchase in which the MTA will acquire re-manufactured commuter locomotives from The Utah Transportation Authority (UTA). The locomotives will be completely overhauled with all new equipment. When overhauled, the re-manufactured locomotives will provide additional power enabling them to pull longer trains and come equipped with electronic fuel injection making them more fuel efficient. The manufacturer, Motive Power in Boise, Idaho, will also ensure that the equipment meets more stringent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions standards (EPA’s Tier 2 rating). These locomotives will reduce emissions of nitrous oxide by 42%, carbon monoxide by 70% and particulates (like soot) by 67%. Additionally, these re-manufactured locomotives will improve crew safety by having APTA-approved cabs that improve crash worthiness for the safety of crewmembers. The enhanced technology in these locomotives will also provide fleet uniformity for acquiring spare parts and performing maintenance, increased efficiency, reliability and reduced maintenance.
Average daily ridership exceeds 30,000 on MARC’s Brunswick, Camden and Penn Lines. For more information on MARC, MTA schedules, fares and other services, visit www.mtamaryland.com or call (410) 539-5000 or (866) RIDE-MTA. TTY 410-539-3497
Media Contacts:
Jawauna Greene
Office: 410-767-3936
Cell: 443- 392-2983
Cheron Victoria Wicker
Office: 410-767-3936
Cell: 443-386-8605 |
