Bombardier Transportation have won a $204.7 million service contract from Maryland Board of Public Works to operate Maryland Area Regional Commuter (MARC) commuter rail services on the Camden and Brunswick lines from June 2013.
Bombardier Take Over From CSX Transportation
The current operator of the Baltimore Camden – Washington DC line and the Martinsburg – Washington DC line, CSX Transportation has decided to stop operating the commuter service to focus on freight. CSX will however, continue to own and maintain the lines used by the MARC-owned trains whilst Bombardier will be contracted to maintain the train fleet.
Bombardier beat rivals Keolis and Veolia with the winning bid of $204.7 million for the five year eight month contract which also includes an option for a five year extension.
The Penn Line from Perryville via Baltimore to Washington DC is the other MARC commuter rail operation. This is operated by Amtrak who also own the tracks used. They will continue to operate this route.
Martin O’Malley, Maryland state Governor said of the contract “We have identified a quality company with a wealth of experience in operating commuter rail service. Together with our recent MARC investments including new locomotives, new passenger cars, station improvements and safety enhancements, the MARC system is in better condition today than at any time in its history.”
