MARC Penn Line Adjusts Schedule After Infrastructure Work

MARC Penn Line implements new schedule March 16 as Amtrak completes infrastructure work

MARC Penn Line Adjusts Schedule March 16

MARC Penn Line riders should prepare for schedule changes taking effect March 16, the Maryland Transit Administration announced. The adjustments mark the second phase of modifications related to major infrastructure projects affecting rail operations along the Northeast Corridor. Most schedules will revert to pre-interim times, though many southbound morning trains to Washington will operate earlier than during the recent interim period.

Infrastructure Projects Drive Schedule Modifications

The schedule changes stem from two major infrastructure projects affecting regional rail service. Amtrak's conducting significant trackwork in New Jersey that's been modifying train schedules between Washington and New York, transit officials said. Additionally, a new railroad bridge construction project south of Union Station across the Potomac River has been impacting Amtrak trains traveling through Washington, DC. The MTA implemented a two-phase approach: an interim schedule ran from February 16 through March 13, 2026, with the second phase beginning March 16 when Amtrak returns to normal weekday service.

Morning Southbound Trains See Biggest Changes

Passengers should pay special attention to southbound morning trains to Washington, as many will operate earlier than during the interim period, according to the MTA. Train 511 will experience more significant modifications to its morning southbound schedule. Most MARC Penn Line schedules will revert to times that were in effect before the interim period, officials said. The agency didn't specify exact departure time changes for individual trains beyond noting the earlier operations for morning southbound service.

Changes Take Effect Sunday Morning

The new schedule takes effect March 16, 2026, officials confirmed. The MTA strongly encourages passengers to download PDF copies of updated timetables from their website, and printed timetables will also be available at stations. Commuters should review the new schedules carefully to avoid missing their trains, particularly those traveling into Washington during peak morning hours. Officials said the modifications are necessary to align with Amtrak's return to normal weekday service after completing the interim construction period.

Riders Should Plan Ahead for Commute Changes

Commuters who rely on southbound morning service should allow extra time to adjust to the earlier departure times, transit officials said. The schedule changes particularly affect riders traveling from Maryland stations to Washington during peak hours. Passengers can access updated schedules through printed timetables at stations or by downloading PDF copies from the MTA. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for MARC Penn Line service to help riders navigate the schedule changes.