Contract awarded to maintain MARC lines

BALTIMORE, Md. - Governor Martin O'Malley Wednesday announced the Board of Public Works approval of a third-party contract for operations and maintenance for the Maryland Transit Administration's (MTA) MARC Train Camden and Brunswick lines.

Bombardier Transportation submitted a winning bid of more than $204.6 million over the five-year, eight-month contract term. The contract also includes a five-year renewal option, valued at another $205 million.

"This new contract reflects our continuing commitment to transit in Maryland," said Governor O'Malley. "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."

The contract is for the operation of passenger railroad service and will replace a contract currently in place with CSX Transportation. After three decades of service, CSX has expressed its desire to focus on its core business, the movement of freight, and end its involvement in passenger rail operations.