I am not a regular user of the MARC Train Penn Line, but I am deeply concerned about its operation. The Penn Line is the only electrified line in the MARC Train system, stretching across 77 miles of the Northeast Corridor and providing service seven days a week. Despite this, MTA Maryland owns only six HHP-8 electric locomotives to serve this busy route.

When MTA Maryland retired their AEM-7 locomotives, they missed an opportunity to upgrade their fleet with ACS-64 electric locomotives like SEPTA did. This decision has left them with an inadequate number of electric locomotives for such a high-demand line.

The lack of sufficient electric locomotives not only affects service reliability but also impacts our environment. Electric trains are more energy-efficient and emit less CO2 compared to diesel-powered trains. Therefore, increasing the number of electric locomotives would contribute significantly towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Maryland.

We urge MTA Maryland and MARC Train authorities to take immediate action by ordering more ACS-64 or similar efficient electric locomotives for use on the Penn Line. This will improve service reliability while contributing positively towards environmental sustainability goals.

Join us in urging these changes for better transportation services in our community - sign this petition today!