Press Releases

PATCO News & Information - Archives

PATCO is ready for approaching storm

LINDENWOLD, NJ - PATCO has completed preparations for the impending storm systems and expects to continue running trains between Pennsylvania and New Jersey on snow schedules through the end of Tuesday (1/27). The snow schedules offer morning (6 a.m. to 9 a.m.) and afternoon (2 p.m. to 6 p.m.) rush hour trains every 10 minutes.

PATCO currently has on hand:
• 500 tons of salt
• 100 tons of salt/sand mixture
• A deicing train that sprays a thawing fluid on the electrified third rail to help prevent ice build-up
• Heaters that prevent the third rail from freezing/icing on the Ben Franklin Bridge and the viaducts in Collingswood and Haddon Township
• Heaters on rail switches that prevent ice and snow from building up and switches from freezing

“As one of only four rail-transit services in the U.S. to provide 24/7 service to its customers, PATCO is accustomed to working around the clock during inclement weather,” says Mike Williams of DRPA/PATCO Corporate Communications.

One key to that effort is deploying resources, including staff, equipment and materials, to keep tracks clear and parking lots, stations, and platforms accessible. The other key to the planning efforts is adjusting train schedules in response to specific demands.

“All of these preparations are designed to minimize passenger inconvenience,” Williams says. “Some people switch to the train in bad weather, rather than risk driving, and we want to make sure they – as well as our usual customers – can get where they’re going. Since many people do make the switch during bad weather, we ask that all of our customers be patient with and understanding of the potential for crowded trains.”

PATCO information, schedules and status updates are available at  www.ridepatco.org. In addition, Customer Service Agents are available 24/7 by calling (856) 772-6900 or (215) 922-4600.

[ Return to List ]