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Every fall, PATCO prepares for "slippery rail" season- a time when fallen leaves on the tracks can affect how trains operate. When crushed under train wheels, leaves mix with moisture and release a natural substance called pectin. This sticky, gel-like residue forms a slick film on the rail, making it harder for trains to accelerate and brake. That can lead to slower speeds and minor delays during the day.

This residue can also create other noticeable effects. To maintain safe stopping distances, trains may need to operate at reduced speeds, resulting in longer trip times. The loss of traction can also flatten sections of a train's wheels, causing them to roll unevenly and emit a thumping sound. When this happens, PATCO takes affected trains out of service to repair or replace the misshapen wheels. If a train needs to be taken out of service while it's already on the line, it can lead to delays or cancellations as schedules are adjusted.

A Dedicated Response to Keep Service Moving

To reduce these impacts, PATCO uses a Track Utility Vehicle (TUV) - a special piece of equipment designed to clean the rail and help restore traction.

The TUV operates Monday through Friday, typically during nighttime hours, and sometimes multiple times a day when schedules allow. It's known as a "moving track outage," which means the TUV can work on one section of track while in-service trains continue to operate on the other.

The vehicle carries approximately 1,000 gallons of water and uses high-pressure washing to clear away the slippery pectin film. The process relies solely on water, with no additives or chemicals, making it both effective and environmentally friendly. While most cleanings happen at night, the frequency can increase as more leaves fall throughout the season to stay ahead of conditions and maintain safe, reliable service.

Additionally, the TUV plays an important role year-round- not only during leaf season, but also in snowstorms to de-ice the third rail and keep trains moving. It also supports system upkeep with attachments for pressure washing and cleaning PATCO's subway tunnels.

A Regional Challenge

Slippery rail is not unique to PATCO. It's a common seasonal challenge across the Northeast, affecting commuter and regional rail lines from Boston to Washington, D.C. Heavy tree cover and damp fall weather create the perfect conditions for pectin-based leaf film to build up on tracks. PATCO's proactive approach mirrors strategies used throughout the region to protect equipment and keep trains running safely and on time.

What Riders May Notice

During this time of year, riders may occasionally experience slower train speeds in or out of stations or slight schedule adjustments. These steps are taken to keep service safe and reliable, while also helping to reduce wear on wheels and equipment behind the scenes.

This work happens mostly overnight, so riders rarely see it- but it plays a significant role in making sure tracks are ready for the next day.

"Leaf season is something every railroad in the Northeast deals with, but we don't wait for it to become a problem," said PATCO General Manager John Rink. "Our crews work through the night washing down the rails and staying ahead of changing conditions. Most riders never see that work, but it's a big part of why they can count on PATCO to be ready each day. It's about being proactive, keeping service reliable, and making sure our riders get where they need to go safely."

By staying ahead of slippery rail conditions, PATCO helps ensure trains remain safe, reliable, and on times- not just in the fall, but year-round.