MARC Penn Line Could Add Weekend Service

Do you head to Odenton to commute on the MARC train?

You may now be able to ride the train on weekend as well. 

The MARC Penn Line could add weekend service to Odenton under provisions outlined in the transportation packaged approved by Maryland lawmakers. 

Sen. Jim Rosapepe (D-21) said the Maryland Legislature gave its support for expanded MARC service during the 2013 legislative session. The plan calls for the MARC Penn Line to offer Saturday and Sunday service to Odenton, Rosapepe said. 

The senator spoke Tuesday at a meeting of the West Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce in Gambrills. 

Rosapepe said it was unclear when weekend service would be put in place, but that he's received indications it could go into effect by early next year. Details on frequency of trains and impacted stations have not yet been determined.

Rosapepe also said the transportation package calls for the addition of new double-decker rail cars.  

MTA spokesman Terry Owens cautioned that final decisions have not been made, as Gov. Martin O'Malley has yet to sign the transportation bill. 

"The Transportation package includes a number of proposals and has yet to be signed," he said. "Until the package actually becomes law and decisions are made about which projects will be included it would be premature for me to comment."  

Many residents and business leaders have pushed for weekend service in recent years. The Central Maryland Transportation Alliance, which has advocated for investment in public transit, made the addition of weekend MARC service a key goal.  

West Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Claire Louder noted that weekend service would be well-received in Odenton due to the growing population, many of whom don't keep traditional work hours.