Light Rail Services in Maryland Suspended Due to Safety Concerns
BALTIMORE — Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) officials announced on Thursday that Light Rail services will be suspended effective Friday. The decision comes after several safety issues were discovered during inspections of the Light Rail fleet.
MTA administrator Holly Arnold revealed that high voltage conduits on the Light Rail vehicles have been punctured, a discovery made following a fire event on October 21. Additionally, issues with the cables that connect Light Rail cars have caused six smoke events since November 2021.
As a result of these findings, further inspection of the entire Light Rail fleet was deemed necessary. While the risk level remains acceptable, MTA officials have decided to take action out of an abundance of caution and to facilitate an expedited inspection and repair of the fleet.
In order to accommodate passengers during the suspension of Light Rail services, shuttle bus service will be implemented at all Light Rail stops effective Friday.
The MTA has assured the public that safety is their top priority and that they are working diligently to address the issues and resume Light Rail services as soon as possible. Commuters are advised to plan accordingly and utilize the shuttle bus service provided during this temporary suspension.