Baltimore's Light Rail to get $213M makeover

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) will receive $213 million in federal grant money that will be used to replace all 52 aging Light Rail cars in its fleet, the agency said this week.

The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration’s Rail Vehicle Replacement program, which is part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The federal government is providing $90 million in matching funds to the project, which will be used to replace the cars with new, modern railcars.

“Reliable transit in the Baltimore region is essential to connecting Marylanders with life’s opportunities and spurring economic growth,” Governor Wes Moore said in a statement. “Thanks to Team Maryland’s continued support and advocacy, this funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help ensure MTA’s light rail fleet is safe and operational for decades to come.”

The MTA’s light rail fleet includes standard, 95-foot rail cars that were launched in 1992. The cars are reaching the end of their service life, and the agency has identified a need to replace the entire rail fleet to improve safety and accessibility.

The new railcars will be designed to be safer and more accessible, easier to board, and include improved heating and air conditioning. The cars will also have lower maintenance costs and are expected to increase service frequency.

The project is expected to cost $450 million and will be completed in 2026. The MTA says that the project will have a positive impact on the lives of more than 13,000 daily riders who use the light rail system.

Investing in public transportation is investing in our workforce and economy.

I'm thrilled to see this funding for Maryland's Light Rail system that will enhance the safety, accessibility, and overall experience for riders.https://t.co/dfwCw0W6QB

— County Executive Johnny Olszewski (@BaltCoExec) February 21, 2024