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RT Press Release
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Recent Heat Wave Prompts Emergency Measures For SacRT
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CONTACT:
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Wendy L.Williams
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Sunday, June 25, 2017
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PHONE:
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(916) 556-0300
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) is implementing emergency measures in response to the recent heat wave that significantly impacted light rail service. This past week, the system’s aging air conditioning struggled to perform in the region’s triple digit temperatures causing extreme discomfort for both passengers and operators.
Understanding the severity of the conditions, SacRT has expedited efforts to repair ten light rail vehicles to increase capacity and reduce demand on older rail cars with less reliable air conditioning. Vice President of Operations Mark Lonergan says Siemens, a light rail manufacturer, will begin work on Monday to fast track repairs.
“Our goal is to be better equipped to handle the next heat wave. We want our passengers to know we are aggressively pursuing solutions to improve air conditioning on the light rail system.” said Lonergan. “We’re confident the additional rail cars will provide more support to the overall service.”
SacRT is hopeful that a slight cooling trend will give passengers and operators some much needed relief in the coming week. In an effort to combat the summer temperatures, SacRT intends to continue providing water at Sunrise and Cosumnes River College stations where operators are given breaks after each run. Additionally, extra stand-by operators are in place to assist, when needed.
“Providing a reliable and comfortable travel experience in a safe environment for both our passengers and SacRT operators is our paramount goal,” said General Manager/CEO Henry Li. “We apologize for the unacceptable heat-related situation we experienced last week. We are proactively and aggressively working on multiple solutions to improve. In the meantime, our team will continue to work closely with all stakeholders in the region to seek dedicated funding to replace aging vehicles.”
About Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT)
RT operates approximately 69 bus routes and 43 miles of light rail throughout Sacramento County, including the cities of Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova and Elk Grove. Sacramento buses and light rail trains operate 365 days a year. SacRT's entire bus and light rail system is accessible to the disabled community. ADA services are provided under contract with Paratransit, Inc.
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