Metro News Release

For immediate release: July 12, 2011

About Red Line Delays Tuesday Evening

Metro has issued the following message to customers:

About Red Line Delays this Evening

Metro apologizes for the delay and inconvenience many customers experienced this evening on the Red Line.

At approximately 3:30 p.m., Metro crews reported a weather-related "heat kink" in the rail between Takoma and Silver Spring on the "outbound" (Glenmont-bound) track. A factor for railroads throughout the world, heat kinks are caused when the metal rail expands due to extreme heat and direct sunlight. As it expands, the rail loses its proper alignment, making it necessary to take the track out of service until repairs are made.

During the evening commute, Red Line trains were forced to share a single track between Silver Spring and Takoma, causing train congestion, crowding and delays in both directions. Some trains were turned back at strategic locations to preserve adequate service levels elsewhere on the line.

Metro has an aggressive track inspection program that is used to detect any signs of track defects.

As of 9:30 p.m., crews remain on the scene using heavy machinery to reset the rail to its proper alignment. The work continue overnight until the track is able to be returned to service.

Again, we apologize for the inconvenience many of you experienced and thank you for your patience.

News release issued at 9:43 pm, July 12, 2011.