Switching, Mechanical Problems Cause Metra Delays

Commuters advised to check MetraRail.com for the most current travel information

Switching and mechanical problems -- as well as at least two cars stuck on the tracks -- caused delays and a few cancellations on several Metra lines during the Thursday morning commute.

By 8 a.m., the rail service reported several delays for the morning commute, with the BNSF line having the most issues.

Both inbound and outbound trains on the BNSF line were experiencing delays of up to 30 minutes because of switching problems and train congestion, according to Metra’s website. A handful of BNSF trains were canceled.

On the Union Pacific / West Line, trains were delayed up to 75 minutes because of mechanical problems, according to Metra’s website.

"Station so packed with people can't even move. All trains either cancelled or over an hour delayed. Worst I've seen in 30 years," NBC Chicago producer Bob Ray wrote in an email.

Several inbound trains on the Union Pacific / Northwest Line were also delayed up to 20 minutes  because two cars were stuck on the tracks at different locations, Metra spokesperson Tom Miller said.

The cars, which were stuck between northwest suburban Arlington Heights and Arlington Park, had been cleared by 8 a.m. without any collisions, but at least four trains were experiencing residual delays, Miller said.

Commuters were advised to check MetraRail.com for the most current travel information.
 

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