Larry Hogan Governor Maryland Department of Transportation 30 Rutherford The Secretary?s Office Lt. overnor Pete K. Rahn Secretary June 7, 2018 Mr. Colin Campbell The Baltimore Sun 501 North Calvert Street Baltimore MD 21278-1000 Dear Mr. Campbell: The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is in receipt of your request (813294) pursuant to the Maryland Public Information Act, General Provisions Article (GP) 4-101 et seq. of the Annotated Code of Maryland. Speci?cally, you requested: "1 request copies of the past ?ve years' worth of Baltimore Metro Subway work orders and track inspection reports. I request a copy of all written correspondence between the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300 and Maryland Transit Administration or Maryland Department of Transportation of?cials in the last ?ve years regarding the state of repair of the Baltimore Metro Subway/SubwayLink." On March 20, 2018, you narrowed the second part of your request to: ?In response to your request to narrow the scope of my PIA, I request a copy of any and all communications among the following people regarding the Baltimore Metro Subway/SubwayLink in the last three years: Amalgamated Transit Union 1300 President David McClure, MTA Administrator Kevin Quinn (including during his time in any previous roles), MDOT Secretary Pete Rahn, MDOT Deputy Secretary James Ports, former MTA Director of Labor Relations Brian Williams and former MTA Administrator Paul Comfort.? The releasable communications are attached. Records have been denied pursuant to GP 4-301 and 4-344. These records include drafts, memoranda, reports, and communications from agency employees and of?cials made in connection with the advisory and deliberative decision-making process. In addition, a personal phone number contained, in the emails has been redacted pursuant to COMAR 11.01 .13.02. My telephone number is Toll Free Number 1-888-713-1414 TTY Users Call Via MD Relay 7201 Corporate Center Drive, Hanover, Maryland 21076 Mr. Colin Campbell Page Two As stated in the previous letter, the work orders and track inspection reports you seek are part of an internal investigation, and therefore may not be released at this time. We are still in the process of gathering relevant documents, which must then be authenticated, veri?ed, and reviewed. It is premature to release these records until our investigation concludes. Once that occurs, we will reevaluate releasing these records, subject to other exemptions that may apply. You have the option to refer any concerns about this determination to the Public Access Ombudsman pursuant to 4-lB-01 et seq. Pursuant to 4?3 62, you are entitled to Seek judicial review of this decision. If you have any questions-you may contact Ms. Erin Henson, MDOT Public Affairs Director at, 410-865-1025 or ehenson@mdot.state.md.us. She will be happy to assist you. Sincerely, ff Matt Nemp os MDOT PIA Manager Kelly Bell From: Kevin Quinn Sent: Friday, February 09, 2018 7:11 AM To: Jim Ports Subject: RE: Metro Rail Replacement Finalizing right now! From: Jim Ports Sent: Friday, February 09, 2018 7:11 AM To: Kevin Quinn Subject: RE: Metro Rail Replacement Kevin: Not sure if you sent the briefing over to me or not but i just wanted to let you know that I have not received it. or Jim Ports, CCTM, csso MARVLAND DEPARTHENT Deputy Secretary for Operations or TRANSPORTATIOPL Maryland Department of Transportation 7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover, MD 21076 410-865-1002 (direct) 1 410?865-1340 (fax) CHANGING 410-562-0086 (cell) Maryland iports@mdot.state.md.us 15,311? Bam- mm MISSION STATEMENT a he Maryland Department of Transportation is a MARYLAND DEPARTMENT customer-driven leader that delivers safe, sustainable, OF TRANSPORTATION intelligent, and exceptional transportation solutions in order to connect our to life?s opportunities.? From: Kevin Quinn Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2018 5:22 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Metro Rail Replacement -kq Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Suhair AlKhatib Date: February 8, 2018 at 5:08:37 PM EST To: Kevin Quinn "Sean Adgerson James Gillece Subject: Metro Rail Replacement In preparation for this summer?s Metro 10?weekend single-tracking work between West Cold Spring and Owings Mills, we commissioned our consultant, HNTB, to conduct ?eld inspections of the Metro rails and prepare a package of rail replacements to be implemented under the Light Rail/Metro Ancillary contract. Today we received the preliminary results of field inspections and learned that they are recommending immediate replacement of 33,000 linear feet of rail on Metro in the elevated part of the system due to high gauge face angle. Gauge face angle is a measure of rail wear and our Track Inspection Manual indicates that any rail exceeding 26 degrees should be taken out of service. analysis indicated numerous locations at or exceeded 26 degrees. Further ?eld inspections will be initiated tomorrow to inspect rail in the tunnel part of the system. Our recommendation is to shutdown Metro service tonight and proceed immediately with an emergency procurement to replace these critical sections of rail. We will be working with our consultant to identify specific areas exceeding the 26 degrees as the highest priority areas for replacement. Suhair AI Khatib Deputy Administrator Chief Planning, Program and Engineering Officer Maryland Transit Administration Planning, Program, Engineering, IT, MARC and CB 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 Office: 410-767?3787 Fax: 410-333-0489 SAIKhatib@mta.marvland.aov Providing safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. Kelly Bell From: Sent: To: Subject: Pete Rahn Saturday, October 10, 2015 3:03 PM Paul Comfort Re: MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28?15 Thank you, Paul. MTA can not make spending cuts to safety. You will have to look elsewhere. On the Kirk bids, canceling the procurement and rescoping should be seriously considered. Pete Sent from my iPhone On Oct 9, 2015, at 4:05 PM, Paul Comfort wrote: FYI per your request. Also Kirk Bus Garage Phase II bids have come in $12 mill overestimates. We are working on further negotiations but won?t at this point be able to reduce all of this. Paul Comfort, Esq. MTA Administrator and CEO Maryland Transit Administration Office of the Administrator 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 Office: 410?767?3943 Fax: 410-333?3279 Dcomfort@mta.marvland.aov Providing safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. Maryland Department I 0" WUSPOMUOH From: Kevin Quinn Sent: Friday, October 09, 2015 3:42 PM To: Paul Comfort Subject: FW: MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28-15 Here it is electronically From: Holly Arnold Sent: Thursday, October 08, 2015 12:13 PM To: Kevin Quinn Subject: MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28-15 Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28-15.docx> Kelly Bell From: Sent: To: Subject: Got it. Thanks! I CHANGING Maryland Berra Jim Ports Friday, December 02, 2016 7:42 AM Paul Comfort RE: Emergency Track Work on Metro Jim - Ports, ccwi, (2550 Deputy Secretary for operations Maryland Department of Transportation 7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover, MD 21076 410-865-1002 (direct) 410-865-1340 (fax) . 410-562-0086 (cell) inorts@ mdotatatemdos ul- a Ctr-riu'alnt ulrii?t'n'lomlcr that nurl?ligr-nr. and-?ct??graal In (wanton?) From: Paul Comfort in order Sent: Thursday, December 01, 2015 7:25 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Emergency Track Work on Metro FYI Paul Comfort MTA Administrator 6'St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21202 Phone 410??67-3943 Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "Sean Adgerson ersonl mta.ma land. ov> Date: December 1, 2016 at 5:51:18 PM EST To: Paul Comfort Ryan Nawrocki John Duncan John Gavrilis James Knighton Suhair AlKhatib Subject: Emergency Track Work on Metro Paul, The' METRO MOW team discovered an issue with 'two of our switches leading into the Johns Hopkins station. Below is a detailed description of the issues: . a Track 2, both turnout frogs have significant breaks/cracks, that would be the 3A and 1A switches; this eliminates any movements over either frog white moving straight through or crossing over. The frog on switch 1A needs to be replaced and this 'will begin tonight at 10PM. MOW will be working on the weld repairs and frog replacement concurrently until both are- complete. The expectation is that it may take the entire weekend due to the nature of the work and limited resources. - Train service will be limited to use of track 1 only between Charles Center and JohnsHopkins 'whereas Charles Center is the next available crossover west of Johns Hopkins. lnorder to properly space out trains on the east end and to keep the service running without major delays, we will have to send every other train to Johns Hopkins versus every train for Friday only. We will not have to do this on Saturday and Sunday because we have less trains operating and we can manage the headways without having to skip trains going into JH. - in order to successfully communicate this change to the public, we are begun the work of crafting messages for the system as well as for eAlerts. They should be ready shortiy for release. We have also worked out a pian for ensuring that Train Operators are communicating effectively to customers through proper train designation signs and through PA announcements on the train. We will also have a Supervision on-site at Charles Center to help with the customers that may have gotten on the wrong train. We will also be reaching out to Police to request additional coverage at Charles during peak periods to help with any potential crowd control efforts. - Let me know if you have any questions related to this important track work. Sean L. Adgers'on Deputy Chief Operating Officer Maryland Transit Administration Transit Operations i515 Washington Blvd. Baltimore, MD 21 230 Office: 410-454-7228 Fax: 41041544230 sodoersonl @mtomowlondoov From: Roy MeGrath .rnc rath ma land; ov> Date: November 15, 2016 at 6:27:23 PM EST To: Sarah Hoyt Ce: Chris Shank Chris Carroll Jim Parts James - Knighton <1 Ali Keane "shawn.eum@marvland.gov" - - Subject: Re: Reminder: MTA tour next week with Baltimore City Delegation members Thank you for the heads 1115, Sarah. Roy On' Tuesday, November 15, 2016, Sarah Hoyt wrote; Roy, Chris, and Chris: As next week is a short One, I wanted to get this over to you ASAP. On Wednesday, Nov. 23nd, MTA will host a safety tour of Mondawin, Penn-North, and Upton station for Delegates Glenn, Anderson, McCray, Hayes, and Stein, as well as . . David McClure of ATU. As noted in our September 26 MDOT OGA update, this tour was scheduled by MTA in response to several legislative inquiries. Jim Ports will attend the tour as well as MTA government affairs. Please let me know if you? have any questions. - 1 Sarah Sarah Hoyt State Legislative Of?cer I Of?ce of Government Affairs I Maryland Department of TranSportationl Hanover, MD 21076 p: 410 865-1024 c:443 603v2344l e: shovt@mdot.state.md.us Maryland now features 51 1 traveler information! Call 511 or visit: l.org Please consider the environment before Ilns email LEGAL DISCLAIMER - The information contained in this communication (including any attachments) may be con?dential and legally privileged. This 8 email may not serve as a contractual agreement unless explicit written agreement for this purpose has been made. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby noti?ed that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this . i communication or any of its contents is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please re-send this communication to the sender indicating that it was received in error and delete the original message and any copy of it from your computer system. Roy McGrath Deputy Chief of Staff CHANGING Of?ce of the Governor Maryland 100 State Circle ?rrbe?emr Annapolis, Maryland 21401- roy.mcgrath@ manglandgov I 410-260-3921 (of?ce) Kelly Bell From: Paul Comfort Sent: I Tuesday. May 09. 2017 240 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Letter Attachments: Metro Update Letter to Stein.docx; ATT00001.htm Jim Here is the letter we sent delegate Stein Per your request. Paul Comfort MTA Administrator Sent on my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Jesh ua Wolf Date: May 9, 2017 at 7:24:44 PM EDT To: Paul Comfort Cc: James Knighton <1Knighton@mta.maryland.gov> Subject: FW: Trapeze Info Com Site Condition Feedbacks 3/1/16 - 11/22/16 Jim Please see below in response to your earlier question. See you at noon. We have reserved spot 75 for you in the parking garage. Poul Comfort, Esq. MTA Administrator and CEO Maryland Transit Administration Office of the Administrator I 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 Office: 410?767-3943 Fax: 4 l'0-333-3279 -Dcomfort@mta.marvland.aov Maryland Pravio?ing safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with woria~closs customer service. Maryland Department of Transportation The Maryland Department of Transportation is a customer-driven leader that delivers safe. sustainable, intelligent, and exceptional transportation soluiions in order to connect our customers to life ?5 opportunities. From: James Lewis Sent: Wednesday, November 23, 2016 9:40 AM To: Paul Comfort Subject: Trapeze Info Com Site Condition Feedbacks 3/1/15 - 11/22/16 Paul, After double checking all customer reported Site Conditionfeedbacks between March and present, I did not locate any feedbacks reporting rat sightings at any of our Metro or Light Rail Stations. Should you have any additional questions, please let me know. . James D. Lewis Manager of Customer Service Maryland Transit Administration Care Operations Director?s Office 1515 Washington Boulevard Building 2nd Floor, Suite 2308 Baltimore, MD 21230 - Office: 4lO-454?7186 Mobile: 4i 0-7824 4] 3 ?lewis7@mta.ma land. muse Ma rylan Providing safe. efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world?class customer service. Wand Dis-pawl of Transportation The Maryfond Department of Transportatioh is c: cusfomerdn'ven reader the? delivers safe. sus?tdinobie, :?nreuigent and exceptional transportation soiurfons Jr} Order connect our cusfomers f0 life?s Oon?uniNes. Kelly Bell From: Paul Comfort Sent: Monday, August 24, 2015 5:04 PM To: Pete Rahn Cc: Ed McDonald Subject: . Capital Projects Cost Review Attachments: 2015_08_19 Metro Railcar-Signaling Project Status.doc; Kirk Projects Status 08_20_2015 (2).doc; MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal Systemdocx Pete Per your request I did a deeper dive on the two large upcoming capital projects for MTA - the Metro Railcar and Signaling Project and the Kirk Bus Garage. Attached are project briefs for you showing the history, federal funding and project status for each. As you can see about 2/3 of the cost of the Kirk Project is federal funding and the FTA is requiring the MTA to finish the project in a timely fashion due to their financial involvement. On the other project as noted at today?s staff meeting, we conducted a value engineering review of the Metro Railcar/Signaling Project and were able to eliminate $75 million from the projected cost. There is a request for reprogramming of these funds to other safety sensitive rail projects and the capital improvements attached for your consideration. Paul W. Comfort, Esq. Administrator/CEO Maryland Transit Administration 6 St. Paul St. Baltimore, Maryland 21202 410-767-6635 Office pcomfort@mta.marvland.qov M'l' Mary and Providing safe, efficient and reliable transit services across Maryland with world class customer service. Metro Fleet and Train Control Replacement Project Project Scope and Cost Summary and Status August 2015 Overall Project Goals and Obiectives: The project involves the replacement of the Metro Railcar ?eet and the train control system speci?cally, the existing railcar ?eet will be replaced with modern vehicles of service proven design with the objective of increasing availability while ensuring improved safety, reliability, and passenger comfort; and similarly, the existing legacy train control system will be replaced by Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) in its entirety (with the exception of certain items of trackside equipment such as signals and switch machines). In addition, a new robust ?ber optic communications backbone will be installed. The replacement of the railcars, train control system and associated equipment with modern equipment will enhance passenger comfort, ensure better reliability, and offer improved safety. Project also includes removal and disposal of existing equipment (lOO-railcars and train control system). The project objective is to implement an integrated railcar/train control solution that is cost effective from a design, installation, and maintainability perspective; and is based on proven, reliable equipment that can be installed and commissioned with minimal impact to existing operations. The project Request for Proposal (RFP) Scope of Work (SOW) is for procuring the services of a quali?ed contractor to provide a new Metro Railcar Fleet integrated with the new Metro Train Control System. Preliminary Engineering (PE) Activities: Development; Request for Information (RFI) process; Value Engineering (VE) study; Final RFP Document Ready to Advertise) PE activities on the project are nearly complete. As part of the preliminary SOW development, an exhaustive survey/inspection of existing Train Control assets (cables, wayside control equipment, communication equipment, etc.) was performed to ascertain the existing condition and to decide repair vs. replacement of selected components. A formal RFI process was also carried out to establish industry interest in the project as well as to ascertain suppliers and train control technologies. In addition, under the guidance of a Certi?ed Value Specialist (CVS) a formal VE study was completed. The objective of the VE study was to identify opportunities that may improve project value in terms of Capital cost improvements, improved constructability, and provide the basic functional requirements of the project among other value opportunities; the VE study and industry outreach identi?ed the following key recommendations that were considered for inclusion in the ?nal RFP document: 0 Signi?cantly improve constructability by de?ning the number of shutdowns and work windows 0 Provide ?exibility in work location of speci?ed contractor team members home of?ce versus mandating working from Baltimore 0 Provide ?exibility (smooth or corrugated) on Railcar sides provides economy if a contractor is already building either a corrugated or smooth sided railcar. 0 Reduce the number of powered axles on Railcars 0 Eliminate one cab by including an option for a triplet in lieu of a married pair The above value propositions combined with additional feedback gained from the RFI process as well as from train control experts during industry events such as Positive Train Control (PTC) conference, Next Generation Train Control conference, APTA Railcar/Train control committee brie?ngs, etc., assisted the project team in re?ning the SOW and the engineers estimate, which resulted in the overall estimated project cost to be reduced by approximately (in comparison to the preliminary engineers estimate). Page 1 of 2 File 2015_08_19 Metro Railcar-Signaling Status HI14I15 Construction and Cost: The project construction will consist of a phased approach that will include CBTC design and installation; Railcar design and manufacturing; delivery of 90-Railcars; testing/safety certi?cation/commissioning of Train control and Railcars on Metro Right of Way (validation will include testing Railcars and Train control system ?rst as individual elements; and subsequently, as an integrated system); and ?nally, decommissioning the existing train control system and 100-railcars. 0 Planned Schedule Target date for RFP advertisement September 2015 Projected Award date September 2016 Projected CBTC installation and 1st revenue Railcars Award 36 months Projected construction duration 66 months Warranty period duration 24 months 0 Estimated construction cost Federal $266,624,000 State $269,800,000 Total Cost $536,424,000 File 2015_08_19 Metro Railcar-Signaling Status RBC 811312015 Kirk Bus Division Modernization Projects Phase 1, Phase 2 Temp, and Phase 2 Ultimate Project Scope and Cost Summary - August 2015 Overall Kirk Bus Division Modernization Proiect Goals and Obiectives: To provide a new state of the art facility that ef?ciently supports operation of bus service, provides a safe and comfortable environment for employees, and address community concerns related to bus visibility, noise, and emissions from the site by enclosing operation inside the new buildings. MTA wants to ?be a good neighbor? with the community. History of the Kirk Modernization proiect The existing Kirk Division facility was constructed in 1947 to provide a bus operation, maintenance and storage facility for a portion of bus ?eet. The Kirk Bus Division is one of four (4) Divisions that support bus operation and service to the traveling public. Approximately 175 buses are stored, operated, and maintained at the Kirk Division. The Kirk Bus Division supports 16 bus routes, primarily in the Northeast Baltimore Metropolitan area. Functions at the site include: preventive maintenance, vehicle inspections, heavy repairs, fueling, washing, radio dispatching, administrative of?ces and operator support facilities. During the Flaming and partial Engineering phase this project was not funded for construction. In 2011 MTA applied for, and was awarded, a $43.3m grant for Kirk Phase I as part of State of Good Repair Initiative. At that time, FTA noted that, due to the award, they were expecting that MTA would also complete Phase II of the project and would make its funding a priority. Phase II was able to be funded via the 2013 Revenue Increase. Estimated Construction Cost: Federal $96,150,000 State $54,393,000 Total Cost $150,543,000 The design of the replacement facilities (Ph. 1 Maintenance Bldg. and Ph. 2 Transportation/Storage Bldg.) accommodates the 175 buses, including articulated and hybrid vehicles. When the project was transitioned from the Flaming phase into the Engineering phase, MTA decided to proceed with a design that enclosed all the maintenance and bus storage activities, thereby allowing for signi?cantly better control of noise, exhaust fumes, and visibility of the buses that was conveyed by the community as a concern during the Planning phase of the project. Operational ef?ciency is increased by separation of the bus maintenance and bus storage functions into stand-alone buildings across the street from each other. This required MTA to acquire additional property (Reese Press site) across Kirk Avenue from the existing facility in 2008. Employee/visitor parking is being constructed as part of the Phase 1 project for both the maintenance and transportation/storage buildings. This too was a commitment MTA made to the community by providing MTA employees parking on MTA property versus in the surrounding neighborhood streets. Page 1 of 2 Kirk Bus Division Modernization Projects Project Scope and Cost Summary August 2015 Page 2 of 2 Proiect Descriptions and Current Status: Kirk Phase (Maintenance Building) The project involves the demolition and grading of the existing Reese Press building and site. Construction includes a new bus maintenance building (approx 100,000 SF building) and associated employee parking area on the former Reese Press Site. The new bus maintenance facility will provide for 6 articulated bus maintenance bays, 9 standard bus maintenance bays, 13 dead bus storage bays, two chassis wash bays, parts/tire/material storage area, shop area, and associated maintenance administration and support spaces. Exterior to the building, the site will include construction of an employee parking lot, providing refuse and recycling dumpster enclosures, and some site storage space. The new building is utilizing sustainable design principles. 0 Construction NTP issued on 9/20/2013. 0 Total Phase 1 project construction cost: (loaded) 0 Estimated construction completion Spring (May) 2016 Kirk Phase 2 ?Temporary?: As part of the overall Phase 2 project, MTA has selected a temporary facility off-site location to provide for dispatching, fueling, fare vaulting, bus storage, and offices for bus transportation staff during the construction period of the new Phase 2 facility (Transportation Building). The temporary facility is to be located at the former Anderson showroom and lot located at 25?h Street and N. Howard St. 0 This facility was included with Phase 2 ?Ultimate? project improvements in advertised Phase 2 contract (T-0705-O340) BPW approved lease of off-site property on 4/01/15 for a 3 year period This is the first order of work under Phase 2 construction contract Estimated construction duration 6-7 months Estimated Construction cost $5.1m (neat) Total Ph. 2 construction cost is listed below Kirk Phase 2 ?Ultimate?: (Transportation Building) This project involves the demolition of the existing Kirk Bus Division building and replacing it with a new modern bus transportation/storage building (approx 200,000 SF) that will accommodate approximately 175 buses, including articulated/hybrid vehicles. The Phase 2 building will provide bus storage, fueling, washing, dispatching, administrative of?ces, and operator support facilities. 0 Advertised on 6/04/15. Bid Opening scheduled for 9/8/15 0 Current schedule for NTP 12/18/15. 0 Construction of ,Phase 1 project (Maint. Bldg.) and Phase 2 Temp. project improvements must be complete before Ph. 2 Ultimate construction site work can commence 0 Estimated construction duration: 3 years 0 Estimated Construction cost $62.9m (neat) Total Ph. 2 construction cost is listed below Total Phase 2 project construction cost: $80m (loaded) both Phase 2 Temp and Phase 2 Ultimate MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System Vehicle Replacement Project Background In the FY 16-21 CTP, MTA had budgeted $611.4m for the Metro Signal System and Vehicle Replacement project. This was based on initial cost estimates and early engineering. To match industry best practices, MTA changed the type of signal system for the replacement and completed a Value Engineering exercise which resulted in a cost savings of $75m over the life of the project. Proposal MTA has a number of safety critical projects that have been unable to be funded to this point. This proposal recommends that the savings from this project be reprogrammed in 2"d Quarter CWS submission as detailed in the table below. These projects will allow MTA to meet its mission of providing safe, ef?cient, reliable service with world class customer service. This funding will also be focused on MTA core service, primarily in Baltimore City and will help to improve the reliability of the overall transit system. MTA 2nd Quarter CWS Proposal for Savings from Metro Si nal System Vehicle Replacement Project Amount Needed Project Name ($000s) Category Justi?cation Funding for the Capital portion of BNIP - new shelters, signage, and pylons as well as additional buses to meet the Peak Vehicle BNIP Improvements 20,000 Enhancement Requirement. Metro Two Block Ties are reaching the end Metro Two Block Tie of their useful life and must be replaced for Procurement 3,000 Safety the system to run safely. Metro MOW has a number of critical safety issues that must be repaired in the near term. Metro Maintenance of Way This project will address all of the rail safety (MOW) Improvements 15 52,000 Safety issues on the Metro System. Proposed Total 75,000 Metro Signal System and Savings from industry best practices and Vehicle Replacement Savings 3 (75,000) value engineering. Change to MTA portion of CTP - Kelly Bell From: Paul Comfort Sent: Friday, October 09, 2015 4:06 PM To: Pete Rahn Cc: Ed McDonald Subject: FW: MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28-15 Attachments: MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28-15.docx FYI per your request. Also Kirk Bus Garage Phase II bids have come in $12 mill over estimates. We are working on further negotiations but won?t at this point be able to reduce all of this. Paul Comfort, Esq. MTA Administrator and CEO Maryland Transit Administration Office of the Administrator 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 Office: 410-767-3943 Fax: 410-333-3279 Providing safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. a, i u?x Mapland Department .1 Iarylt'md 0? WISDOMHOH From: Kevin Quinn Sent: Friday, October 09, 2015 3:42 PM To: Paul Comfort Subject: FW: MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28-15 Here it is electronically From: Holly Arnold Sent: Thursday, October 08, 2015 12:13 PM To: Kevin Quinn Subject: MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System 8-28-15 MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System Vehicle Replacement Project Background 0 In the FY 16-21 CTP, MTA had budgeted $611.4m for the Metro Signal System and Vehicle Replacement project. This was based on initial cost estimates and early engineering. 0 To match industry best practices, MTA changed the type of signal system for the replacement and completed a Value Engineering exercise which resulted in a cost savings of $75m over the life of the project. Proposal 0 MTA has a number of safety critical projects that have been unable to be funded to this point. This proposal recommends that the savings from this project be reprogrammed in 2'1d Quarter CWS submission as detailed in the table below. 0 These projects will allow MTA to meet its mission of providing safe, ef?cient, reliable service with world class customer service. 0 This funding will also be focused on MTA core service, primarily in Baltimore City and will help to improve the reliability of the overall transit system. MTA 2nd Quarter CWS Proposal for Savings from Metro Signal System Vehicle Replacement Pro ect . Amount Needed . . Pr0ject Name ($0008) Category Justification Metro MOW has a number of critical safety issues that . must be repaired in the near :tfsway 20,000.00 Safety term. This project will 6 address all of the rail safety issues on the Metro System. Light Rail MOW has a number of critical safety Light Rail Maintenance of issues that must be repaired Way (MOW) 16,000.00 Safety in the near term. This Improvements project will address all of the rail safety issues on the Light Rail System. Batteries on the hybrid . buses must be replaced Bus Battery 16,000.00 Reliability when the vehicle reaches 6 Replacement years old in order for the bus to continue in service. Light Rail Interlocking Replacement Fund 12,000.00 Safety The Interlockings on the Light Rail system are reaching the end of their useful life. This funding will allow MTA to design and construct replacements. Metro Two Block Tie Procurement 3,000.00 Safety Metro Two Block Ties are reaching the end of their useful life and must be replaced for the system to run safely. Bus Dual Band Radios 3,000.00 Reliability MTA must move from the existing 490 radios to 700 radios. These radios are also needed to allow full utilization of the improvements from the Bus Uni?ed Systems Architecture project. MARC Positive Train Control 2,500.00 Safety The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) published additional requirements for the Positive Train Control cab signalling system. Light Rail Central Business District Cable Replacement 2,500.00 Reliability The ?ber cable in the Central Business District has reached the end of its useful life and must be replaced. If it fails, Light Rail will be unable to run in the CBD. Proposed Total 75,000.00 Metro Signal System and Vehicle Replacement Savings (75,000.00) Savings from industry best practices and value engineering. Change to MTA portion of CTP MTA Proposal for Cost Savings from Metro Signal System Vehicle Replacement Project Background 0 In the FY 16-21 CTP, MTA had budgeted $611.4m for the Metro Signal System and Vehicle Replacement project. This was based on initial cost estimates and early engineering. 0 To match industry best practices, MTA changed the type of signal system for the replacement and completed a Value Engineering exercise which resulted in a cost savings of $75m over the life of the project. Proposal 0 MTA has a number of safety critical projects that have been unable to be funded to this point. This proposal recommends that the savings from this project be reprogrammed in Quarter CWS submission as detailed in the table below. 0 These projects will allow MTA to meet its mission of providing safe, ef?cient, reliable service with world class customer service. 0 This funding will also be focused on MTA core service, primarily in Baltimore City and will help to improve the reliability of the overall transit system. MTA 2nd Quarter CWS Pr0posal for Savings from Metro Signal System Vehicle Replacement Pro ect . Amount Needed . . Pr0ject Name @0008) Category Justification Metro MOW has a number of critical safety issues that . must be repaired in the near 20,000.00 Safety term. This project will 0 address all of the rail safety issues on the Metro System. Light Rail MOW has a number of critical safety Light Rail Maintenance of issues that must be repaired Way (MOW) 16,000.00 Safety . in the near term. This Improvements project will address all of the rail safety issues on the Light Rail System. Batteries on the hybrid . buses must be replaced Bus Hybr?d Battery 16,000.00 Reliability when the vehicle reaches 6 Replacement years old in order for the bus to continue in service. Light Rail Interlocking Replacement Fund 12,000.00 Safety The Interlockings on the Light Rail system are reaching the end of their useful life. This funding will allow MTA to design and construct replacements. Metro Two Block Tie Procurement 3,000.00 Safety Metro Two Block Ties are reaching the end of their useful life and must be replaced for the system to run safely. Bus Dual Band Radios 3,000.00 Reliability MTA must move from the existing 490 MHZ radios to 700 radios. These radios are also needed to allow full utilization of the improvements from the Bus Unified Systems Architecture project. MARC Positive Train Control 2,500.00 Safety The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) published additional requirements for the Positive Train Control cab signalling system. Light Rail Central Business District Cable Replacement 2,500.00 Reliability The ?ber cable in the Central Business District has reached the end of its Useful life and must be replaced. If it fails, Light Rail will be unable to run in the CBD. Proposed Total 75,000.00 Metro Signal System and Vehicle Replacement Savings (75,000.00) Savings from industry best practices and value engineering. Change to MTA portion of CTP Kelly Bell From: Jim Ports Sent: Wednesday, February 14, 2018 10:34 AM To: Erin Henson;Brandi Bottalico;Doug|ass Mayer Chasse ?GOV-;Shareese Churchill PoweII;Pete Rahn;R. Earl Lewis;Charles GIass;Mark Crampton;Ed McDonald;Heather Murphy;Kevin Quinn;James Gillece;Veronica Battisti;Sandy Arnette;Pau| Cc: Gary Witherspoon;Teri Winslow Subject: RE: HEADS UP - Bus Bridges Day 2 - Metro Shutdown Erin: They are still getting the ridership numbers wrong There is a difference between trips and riders. We need them to understand that. or Jim Ports, CCTM, csso MARYLAND DEPARTMENT Deputy Secretary for Operations or Maryland Department of Transportation 7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover, MD 21076 410?865?1002 (direct) 1 410-865-1340 (fax) CHANGING 410-562-0086 (cell) h/[arvland iports@mdot.state.md.us ?nal): 13,7,? mm -. ?u aw-? MISSION STATEMENT ?The Maryland Department of Transportation is a MARYLAND DEPARTMENT customer-driven leader that delivers safe, sustainable, OF intelligent, and exceptional transportation solutions in order to connect our customers to life?s opportunities.? From: Erin Henson Sent: Tuesday, February 13, 2018 7:32 PM To: Brandi Bottalico Douglass Mayer Amelia Chasse -GOV- Shareese Churchill -GOV- Sean Powell Pete Rahn Jim Ports R. Earl Lewis Charles Glass Mark Crampton Ed McDonald Heather Murphy Kevin Quinn James Gillece Veronica Battisti Sandy Arnette Paul Shepard aiden.gaIloway@maryland.gov Cc: Gary Witherspoon Teri Winslow Subject: HEADS UP - Bus Bridges Day 2 - Metro Shutdown All, See the news coverage below on Day 2 of Bus Bridges with Metro SubwayLink Bus Bridges. Erin Commuters say Baltimore's 'bus bridge? running better, with a few bumps, on second day . Christina TkacikContact ReporterThe Baltimore Sun The second day of the $2.2 million ?bus bridge? meant to replace the Baltimore area?s metro system while it?s closed for emergency repairs seemed to go more smoothly than the first, though many riders still reported commutes taking a half hour or more longer than normal. Officials with the Maryland Transit Administration said they made some changes after Monday?s rollout of the service, including beginning express bus service an hour earlier at 5 am. and adding more signs in and around shuttle stops, according to Kevin Quinn, MTA administrator. The first day of a sudden, monthlong shutdown of Baltimore?s Metro for emergency track repairs brought confusion and frustration for many riders Monday and finger?pointing about how the system fell into such disrepair that service had to be halted with less than 24 hours? notice. The head The first day of a sudden, monthlong shutdown of Baltimore?s Metro for emergency track repairs brought confusion and frustration for many riders Monday and finger-pointing about how the system fell into such disrepair that service had to be halted with less than 24 hours? notice. The head Some riders noticed the difference. "Day two is much better than day one,? said Carlisa Jones as she waited for an express shuttle on Madison Street at Broadway, near the Johns Hopkins station. Jones said she observed more buses and better communication about where passengers should wait. ?Of course, it will get better as each day goes by. They had to work out the kinks,? she said. Still, her commute on the metro took her 18 minutes. "Now, it's taking an hour,? she said. The subway was closed over the weekend for safety inspections after the need for emergency repairs on the above ground, northwest leg to Owings Mills were discovered late last week, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation. Problems discovered on the underground portion led to a closure ofthe full system. Metro has a ridership of 40,000 each weekday, officials said, and about 17,000 on weekends. Glenn Smith, vice president of the Baltimore Transit Equity Coalition a group that advocates reinstatement of the Red Line rail project that Gov. Larry Hogan dismissed in 2015 said the closure reflects larger problems in the city?s transportation system. The shutdown is a major inconvenience for people who rely on the subway system to get to work and school, he said. "it?s really throwing peoples? time off,? he said. The change added an extra 30 minutes to Donte Daniels? commute to his job as a stacker at Family Dollar. But, as he walked to catch the northbound bus home Daniels, 24, praised the quality of the charter buses some hired from Coach USA. "It?s a nice bus,? he said. Not all riders were on board with the shuttle. "It sucks,? said Deb Constantineay, 61, who typically takes the metro as part of her commute between herjob at Johns Hopkins and her home in Glen Burnie. Tuesday afternoon she said she waited 40 minutes for a bus that would drop her off at Lexington Market the rest had been express buses, going straight to Mondawmin Mall, she said. Typically, she only has to wait a few minutes for the subway to arrive. "We do nothing but stand here and wait,? she said. ctkacik@baltsun.com Kelly Bell From: PComfort@mta.maryland.gov Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2017 7:40 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Letter Attachments: Metro Update Letter to Stein.docx; ATT00001.htm Jim Here is the letter we sent delegate Stein Per your request. Paul Comfort MTA Administrator Sent on my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Joshua Wolf Date: May 9, 2017 at 7:24:44 PM EDT To: Paul Comfort Subject: RE: Letter See attached. From: Paul Comfort Sent: Tuesday, May 09, 2017 7:07 PM To: Joshua Wolf Subject: Letter Can you send me the final copy of the letter we sent to delegate Dana Stein with a list of all of our accomplishments on the metro subway fix up? Paul Comfort MTA Administrator Sent on my iPhone mas Maryland Maryland Transit Administration 6 St. Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21202 410.539.5000 TTY 410.539.3497 Toll Free 1.866.743.3682 April 11,2017 The Honorable Dana M. Stein Maryland House of Delegates 6 Bladen Street, Room 251 Annapolis MD 21404 Dear Delegate Stein, Thank you for your email regarding the Maryland Department of Transportation?s (MDOT) Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) Metro Facilities and our plans that address the issues raised regarding the cleanliness and state of repair of several of our station facilities. The MTA is committed to maintaining safe facilities for our passengers and our employees. I would like to provide you the following update on our progress. The following steps were taken after our initial tour on November 23, 2016: A memo detailing important safety precautions was distributed to all Metro Facilities Maintenance and Environmental Services Personnel. This memo details the safe practices required while operating in the metro tunnels. The memo was reviewed during regular staff meetings and trainings. A campaign to reduce the rodent population was implemented and is ongoing. Substantial upgrades and deep cleanings were performed at the Station Control Centers at the Mondawmin, Penn North, and Upton Stations. The ceiling tiles, ?oor tiles, sub?oor, and lighting were replaced. Additionally, a new HVAC system was installed to address environmental concerns. A review of the air pressure issues at certain spots in the station was conducted and a plan was developed to address the identi?ed issues. The employee restrooms at Mondawmin are being renovated including the installation of new ?berglass panels on walls, new ceilings, and new ?xtures. Additionally, upgraded accessories, such as mirrors towel dispensers, new LED light ?xtures, and access key card locks are being added for employee comfort and safety. HARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF Maryland Department of Transportation Larry Hogan, Governor Boyd K. Rutherford, Lt. Governor Pete K. Rohn, Secretary Paul Comfort, Administrator main Maryland The Honorable Dana M. Stein Page Two 0 We implemented electronic tracking, reorganized our Environmental Services staff, and renewed our commitment to cleanliness within our stations. 0 Engineering and Metro Facilities Maintenance have continuously monitored Mondawmin station for water intrusion since the repairs were completed and rehabilitation is underway. 0 We conducted an inspection and developed a plan to address the deteriorating conduit to the SCC booths. Conduits with minimal rust deterioration have been cleaned and spray coated with a waterproof rubberized coating. Conduits with more signi?cant deterioration from rust have been cleaned to the maximum extent possible without causing further damage. The pipes have then been wrapped with a non-metallic, insulated sleeve secured in place with ties. These repairs have been performed to provide immediate protection while the long-term solution is in progress. 0 We continue to host regular meetings between Metro Management and Local 1300 shop leadership to ensure an open dialogue in regards to the safety and security of our employees. 0 We initiated a study which will evaluate the current con?guration of the metro tunnel ventilation system. Computer models are being developed of the systems to help con?rm that their con?gurations will work as intended. The report for this study is still on target for completion in June 2017. In addition to the study, Engineering and Metro Maintenance are jointly evaluating and identifying possible ventilation system modi?cations that can be achieved via ?eld modi?cations. Some of these modi?cations identi?ed include: the purge and recirculation cycles, set point temperatures that trigger activation, review operational logic in the SCADA controls, adjust station fan dampers into permanent open mode. 000 The Honorable Dana M. Stein Page Three All ventilation fans at Mondawmin went through a comprehensive annual preventative maintenance to ensure a state of good repair. Systems Maintenance and Facilities Maintenance formed a focus group to inspect, maintain, calibrate and repair all associated equipment and sensors and is monitored utilizing a maintenance management system (Maximo). The fans include 6 station vent fans 0 4 under platform fans 0 2 station supply fans 0 3 traction power substation fans The malfunctioning doors at Mondawmin Station have been repaired and the Access Control department has installed the door hardware and access card panels. Finally, following the malfunction of the doors at Mondawmin, we made repairs at that facility and we completed a system-wide assessment of the safety and ?lnctionality of all doors within the underground metro facilities. The results of this study were reviewed by our system engineering department and a plan and RF are being developed for the replacement of those doors found to be de?cient. As you can see, we have addressed the vast majority of issues raised during our previous meetings and have begun to complete the remaining few projects. Should you still like to schedule an in-person update, please let me know and one will be arranged. Thank you again for your email. If you need further assistance, please contact Eric Bakes. Deputy Director of Governmental Affairs, at 410-767-2536 or EBackes@mta.maryland. gov. Mr. Backes will be happy to assist you. Sincerely, Paul Comfort, Esq. Administrator CEO Kelly Bell From: PComfort@mta.maryIand.gov Sent: Thursday, December 01, 2016 7:25 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Emergency Track Work on Metro FYI Paul Comfort MTA Administrator 6 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21202 Phone 410-767-3943 Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "Sean Adgerson Date: December 1, 2016 at 5:51:18 PM EST To: Paul Comfort Ryan Nawrocki John Duncan John Gavrilis James Knighton Suhair AlKhatib Subject: Emergency Track Work on Metro Paul, FYI. The METRO MOW team discovered an issue with two of our switches leading into the Johns Hopkins station. Below is a detailed description of the issues: 0 Track 2, both turnout frogs have significant breaks/cracks, that would be the 3A and 1A switches; this eliminates any movements over either frog while moving straight through or crossing over. The frog on switch 1A needs to be replaced and this will begin tonight at 10PM. MOW will be working on the weld repairs and frog replacement concurrently until both are complete. The expectation is that it may take the entire weekend due to the nature of the work and limited resources. 0 Train service will be limited to use of track 1 only between Charles Center and Johns Hopkins whereas Charles Center is the next available crossover west ofJohns Hopkins. In order to properly space out trains on the east end and to keep the service running without major delays, we will have to send every other train to Johns Hopkins versus every train for Friday only. We will not have to do this on Saturday and Sunday because we have less trains operating and we can manage the headways without having to skip trains going into JH. In order to successfully communicate this change to the public, we are begun the work of crafting messages for the system as well as for eAlerts. They should be ready shortly for release. We have also worked out a plan for ensuring that Train Operators are communicating effectively to customers through proper train designation signs and through PA announcements on the train. We will 1 also have a Supervision on?site at Charles Center to help with the customers that may have gotten on the wrong train. We will also be reaching out to Police to request additional coverage at Charles during peak periods to help with any potential crowd control efforts. Let me know if you have any questions related to this important track work. Sean L. Adgerson Deputy Chief Operating Officer Maryland Transit Administration Transit Operations 1515 Washington Blvd. Baltimore, MD 2i 230 Office: 410-454-7228 Fax: 410-454-7230 sadqersonl @mtamarylandam Maryland Providing safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. Maryland Department of Transportation The Maryland Department of Transportation is a customer-driven leader that delivers safe, sustainable, intelligent, and exceptional transportation solutions in order to connect our customers to life?s opportunities. MTA Maryland MARYLAND TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Larry Hogan, Governor 0 Boyd K. Rutherford, Lt. Governor Pete K. Rahn, Secretary 0 Paul Comfort, Administrator May 9, 2016 David McClure President and Business Agent Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300 126 W. 25th Street Baltimore, Maryland 21218 Dear Mr. McClure, In June of 2015, the Maryland Transit Administration began extensive reconstruction at the Mondawmin Metro Subway Station in order to address the issue of water intrusion behind the Station Attendant Booth. The MTA hired KCI Technologies to investigate the premises for water damage and possible mold. To ensure safe and habitable conditions for all employees, The MTA immediately set-up a temporary booth until the renovation project was completed. That being said, the Mondawmin Metro Subway Station has passed inspection and is readily available for use. Sincerely, Brian K. Williams, Director Employer/Employee Relations Cc: John Duncan, Deputy Chief Operating Of?cer/Core Operations Fletcher Hamilton, Director Metro Operations Keith Jenkins, Acting Deputy Director Metro Operations 6 St. Paul Street 0 Baltimore, Maryland 21202-1614 0 TTY 410-539-3497 0 Toll Free 1-866-743-3682 DAVID mamas plenum: Business Agent S. CARTER Vice President BERTRAND Financial Secretary-llama ROBIN RAY Recording Secretary ROBERT BURLEY Assistant B.A. Non 0P EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Division MICHAEL Metro Division S. ROPE Bush Division ANTHONY K. JOHNSON Light Rail Shop LEROY K. CARPENTER Division Facilities/Mandarin RICE Northva Shop [rar/ LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET - BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 2l218 Af?liated with (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 May 26, 20l6 Paul Comfort Administrator Maryland Transit Adminstration 6 Saint Paul Street, Floor Baltimore, MD 21202 Dear Mr. Paul Comfort. The Union has recently received information that Members are being intimidated and coerced by the MTA management staff into not reporting and ?ling health and safety violations. With this correspondence, the Union is addressing the posting of the OSHA report which is attached with this letter that should be disseminated amongst all of the divisions for both Operation and Non-Operation locations. Awareness is something that should be made apparent to all to ensure a safe work environment. Should there be any circumstances where an employee is being approached in a negative manner, they should be made fully aware of their rights. Furthermore, it is deeply concerning to the Union that safety issues exist within the following areas: Track issues - Metro Rail Cracks in tracks Metro Signals issues Light Rail MOW issues - Metro Failure to maintain required safety equipment (Le. minors, brakes, wiper blade replacement - Bus Maintenance Failure to maintain required safety equipment (Le. f'ue extinguishers, exposed wiring, inoperable emergency devices. etc.) poww- 9? For several months, we have attempted to schedule meetings with your of?ce on important safety issues that directly affect our Members, the riding public and the public at large. No meetings have taken place as oftoday?s date of May 26, 20l6. Far too o?en, these matters are only addressed alter a major accident andlor the loss of life have occurred. Seeing that the Maryland Transit Administration stresses the impedance of ?Safety First?, the Union would appreciate your prompt attention Sinc David Me Clure President/Business Agent Amalgamated Transit Union Local it [300 Cc: Lawrence Henley, ATU lntemational President Paul Bowen, international Vice President Edward Watt, ATU international Rep VB'rian Williams, Department of Labor and Relation - MTA El" steamers {moses-1 Whistleblower Protection for Public Transportation Agency Workers Individuals Working for public transportation agencies are protected from retaliation for reporting potential safety or security violations to their employers or to the government. On August 3, 2007, the National Transit Systems 6 U.S.C. 51142, became law as part of The Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act (Public Law 110-53). establishing retaliation protections for public trans- portation agency workers. Covered Employees In general, NTSSA covers employees of a public transportation agency or its contractors or subcon- tractors if the public transportation agency pro- vides regular and continuing general or special transportation to the public (3.9.. public subway. commuter rail or bus systems). Employees of providers of school bus, charter, or sightseeing transportation are not covered; however, these employees may be protected against retaliation for complaining about workplace safety and health conditions under the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 or Section 11(0) of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act or an equivalent state law. Protected Activity If you are covered under NTSSA, your employer may not discharge you or in any other manner retaliate against you because you provided infor- mation to, caused information to be provided to, or in an investigation by a federal regulatory or law enforcement agency, a member or commit- tee of Congress, or your company about an alleged violation of federal laws and regulations related to public transportation safety and security, or about fraud, waste or abuse of funds intended for public transportation safety or security. Your employer may not discharge or in any other manner retaliate against you because you filed, caused to be filed, participated in, or assisted in a proceeding under one of these laws or regulations. In addition, under NTSSA. your employer may not discharge or in any manner retaliate against you because you reported a hazardous safety or security condition. refused to work under certain conditions, or refused to authorize the use of any safety- or secu- rity-related equipment, track or structures. You may also be covered if you were perceived as having engaged in the activities described above. Adverse Actions Your employer may be found to have violated NTS SA if your protected activity was a contributing factor in its decision to take adverse action against you. Such actions may include: - Firing or laying off - Blacklisting - Demoting - Denying overtime or promotion - Disciplining - Denying benefits - Failing to hire or rehire - Intimidation - Making threats - Reassignment affecting promotion prospects - Reducing pay or hours Deadline for Filing a Complaint Complaints must be filed within 180 days after the alleged adverse action occured. How to File a Complaint A worker, or representative of a worker, who believes that he or she has been retaliated against in violation of this statute may file a complaint with OSHA. The complaint should be filed with the OSHA of?ce responsible for enforcement activities in the geographical area where the worker lives or was employed, but may be filed with any OSHA officer or employee. For more information. call your nearest OSHA Regional Office: - Boston {617) 565-9860 - New York (212) 337-2378 Philadelphia {215) 861-4900 - Atlanta (404) 562-2300 - Chicago (312} 3534220 We?; .31: . - Dallas (972) 850-4145 - Kansas City (816} 283-8745 - Denver (720) 264-6550 - San Francisco (415) 625-2547 0 Seattle (206) 553-5930 Addresses, fax numbers and other contact informa- tion for these offices can be found on the Whistleblower Protection Program's website. and in local directories. Complaints may be filed orally or in writing, by mail (we recommend certified mail), e-maii, fax, or hand-delivery during business hours. The date of postmark, delivery to a third party carrier, fax, e? mail, phone call, or hand-delivery is considered the date filed. if the worker or his or her representative is unable to file the complaint in English, OSHA will accept the complaint in any language. Results of the Investigation If the evidence supports your claim of retaliation and a settlement cannot be reached, OSHA will issue a preliminary order requiring the appropriate relief to make you whole. Ordered relief may include: - Reinstatement with the same seniority and benefits. - Payment of backpay with interest. IF.- 2+ JET-L mic 2" 3.33535 - Compensatory damages, including compensa- tion for special damages, expert witness fees and reasonable attorney's fees. - Punitive damages of up to $250,000. OSHA's findings and preliminary order become a final order of the Secretary of Labor, unless a party objects within 30 days. Hearings and Review After OSHA issues its findings and preliminary order. either party may request a hearing before an administrative law judge of the U.S. Department of Labor. A party may seek review of the administra- tive law judge's decision and order before the Department?s Administrative Review Board. Under NTSSA, if there is no final order issued by the Secretary of Labor within 210 days after the filing of the complaint. then you may be able to file a civil action in the appropriate U.S. district court. To Get Further Information For a copy of the statutes, the regulations and other whistleblower information. go to whistleblowers.gov. For infermation on the Of?ce of Administrative Law Judges procedures, decisions and research materials, go to and click on the link for "Whistleblower." This is one in a series of informational fact sheets highlighting OSHA programs, policies or standards. It does not impose any new compliance requirements. For a comprehensive list of compliance requirements of OSHA standards or regulations, refer to Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations. This information will be made available to sensory impaired individuals upon request. The voice phone is (202) 693-1999; teletypewriter i'iTYi number: i877) 889-5627. For more complete information: Occupational Safety and Health Administration U.S. Department of Labor racer 321-OSHA DEP 5/2010 DAVID Floridan a Business Agent MICHAEL MW Vice President a BRYANT HOPE Financial Secretary-Thaw OLIVIA mm? Recording Sacral-y ROBERT BURLEY Assistant B.A. Non DP EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bulb Division VIVIAN OKOLI Northwest Division LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division LEROY K. CARPENTER Bull: Division Fad JEFFREY RICE Northwest Shop 1mm cums um Shop LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET 0 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AFL-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-554] July 13, 2016 Dear Administrator Comfort, I submit this letter to you to demonstrate the extent to which Amalgamated Transit Union Local it 1300 has attempted to engage you and your office in a results-driven discussion regarding the serious safety hazards plaguing the MTA Metro Subway system. These attempts have been met with limited interest where responses have been offered, they have been disappointing and primarily focused on shoring up the agency?s reputation among its workforce and ridership. Therefore, it is the conclusion of ATU Local it 1300, its Officers and Membership that the only method to ensure funding and administrative attention are applied to averting life-threatening crises facing our rail system is to engage the riding public. To reiterate, the hazards reported ad nauseam by this union include, but are not limited to: faulty wiring and exposed conduits in work and public areas that can lead to electrocution, persistent rodent infestations, substandard and unsafe rodent abatement efforts, ?ooding of critical safety and operational equipment, and inoperable fire management systems. This list accounts for those issues discovered at just one station, Mondawmin. We believe such hazards put not only our members at risk, but our passengers as well. While we have been unable to inspect all stations within the system, we have reason to believe that this utter neglect is not isolated and that all stations should be assessed as thoroughly as possible. The following is a timeline of meetings, requests for meetings, and public actions taken to raise awareness on these safety Issues since March of 2015: March 5, 2015: The contract was discussed as well as the Rail System. November 12, 2015: Local 1300 leadership sent a letter to your office, as being the Administrator, demanding a meeting to address the numerous safety issues that members have been reporting. The MTA declined to schedule a meeting to address the union?s concerns. March 8, 2016: Local 1300 leadership and representatives met with MTA Director of Labor Relations, Brian Williams around health and safety concerns. 0 March 23, 2016: as being the Administrator and MDOT Deputy Secretary Jim Ports went to Mondawmin Station, where Local 1300 representatives confronted Comfort and his staff over the ?ooding and rat Infestation issues. 0 March 29, 2016: Local 1300 leadership and representatives met with you directly around systemic safety issues. DAVID MICLURI President Business Agent MICHAIL Vice health! S. BRYANT Financial Secretary-Mm OLIVIA Recording Semth BURL-IV Alain-1| BA. NM 01? BOARD mu GREGORY D1008 Bush Division VIVIAN OKOLI Nuthwul Division LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division LEROY K. CARPENTER Bush Division FocilitiedMahitmmoe JEFFREY RICE Nathwat Shq: JAMES CARTER Northwest Shop 126 WEST 25TH STREET 0 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AFL-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 0 April 2016-May 2016: As a result of the March 29"?meeting between Local 1300 and yourself, the MTA in April erected a temporary, plastic relief shed for station operators while the MTA cleared booths of rodent-related refuse. in May, the MTA removed the shed. While addressing some of the consequences of rat infestation at one station, the MTA made no effort to address the causes. 0 June 2, 2016: ATU Local 1300 members lea?et passengers and hold a press conference to demonstrate that the serious rat infestation issue at Mondawmin persists. The MTA responds publicly, lobbing unfounded accusations at the union and its officers. 0 June 2, 2016: ATU Local 1300 meets with Mr. Williams and MTA Chief Safety Of?cer Bernadette Bridges on the phone again to discuss numerous safety issues, this time providing detailed visual evidence. ATU Local 1300 demanded a joint of Mondawmin station with MTA management, the establishment of a joint union-management safety subcommittee, the right to bring non-MTA health and safety officers on MTA properties, and access to MTA non-work areas for the purpose of health and safety surveys, education, and interviews. To date, no response to these demands has been received. The was cancelled through the Department of Labor Relations. 0 June 16, 2016: ATU Local 1300 and the MTA schedule a of Mondawmin Station. The MTA cancels last minute. The union demands a the following day. a June 17, 2016: ATU Local 1300 and the MTA do a of Mondawmin Station. In this further safety Issues are uncovered. To date, none of have been addressed. Local it 1300 has done more than its due diligence over the past seven months to inform the MTA of these issues and has been met with callous disregard for the responsibilities of MTA management to ensure safe working conditions and a safe system for riders. At best, the current approach being pursued is a result of complacency. At worse, it seems aimed at guiding the system into an unnecessary state of crisis that could be leveraged to justify political objectives like privatization or further divestment from Baltimore CitVs transportation system. DAVIDMMR Presidenth WNW 8. Finch] Sonny-m OLIVIA amen. Sammy Rom Am BA. Non OP EXECUTIVE BOARD mm GREGORY D1005 MW VIVIAN OKOLI Nadine-1 Division WUISDURANT mm Tl. mm? ruce North's: shop JAMES CARTER Nu?mui Ship LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET - BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21213 A?'iliated with AFL-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 The public workers we represent stand ready, willing and able to work with the MTA to bring our system to the state of good repair that Baltimoreans and all Marylanders deserve. We once again urge you, Secretary Rahn, and Governor Hogan to prioritize investment in the operations and maintenance of existing MTA services and publicly? accountable and -operated expansion of our bus and rail systems. Sincerely, David Mc Clure President] Business Agent ATU - Local it 1300 Mondawmin Walk Through 2016 Action Items ITEM Discrepancy Action Plan Progress esponsih ilityiStatus Date [Target Completion lDate Integrity of the Secure and reinforce Floor was secured, EMTA-FAC COMP 35-24-16 SCC booth Floor. the SCC booth ?oor. reinforced and is no 7-7-16 longer a safety issue. 7 M-001b Integrity of the Replace SCC ?oor Task Order 80W WMO PRG 9-15?16 SCC booth Floor. and upgrade HVAC developed similar to 7-7-16 system. the current task to upgrade 3 station SCC booths during 21-day shutdown. Mondawmin will be ?rst station upgraded after shutdown on . new task. Penn North and Upton will be 1 included in the new task- . . M-OOZ Conditions under Inspect and correct Water leak repaired MTA-FAC IcoMr {6-24-16 the SCC booth water intrusion and and water no longer I7-7-16 ?oor. Water, debris issues. present under ?oor. moisture and Investigate smoke Detector was abandon debris issues detector issue and during 201 1 Fire identi?ed. Smoke correct. Protection upgrade. detector Detector was discovered as well removed. 0 and appears 2385290 defective. Friday, July 08, 2016 Mondawmin Walk Through 2016 Action Items ITEM Discrepancy Action Plan Progress IResponsibili tatus/ Date Target Completion Date SCC Booth Secure Cables Cables will be secured 7-7-16 interior-Cables to 7-7-16. wo #2478114. L7-7-16 the fare gate 5 control box loosely installed. M-004 Complaint of Investigate During inspection of COMP 6-24-16 mold under ?oor, no mold I '6?24?16 was visible and past test reports were i ative. ?005 (FMP) Fire COMP 7-7-16 Management 7-7-16 Panel 1. Secure l. Secured 1.Detetcor not detector box Complete W0 secured to the box 2458417 2. Wire hanging 2. Secure wires 2. Complete W0 - inside the 2458417 I compartnient of the FMP and not properly terminated. - 3. Remove 3. Complete i 3. FMP covered Plastic Plastic has I I with plastic been removed I Friday, July 08, 2016 Mondawmin Walk Through 2016 Action Items intrusion. ITEM Discrepancy Action Plan Progress lResponsibilityiStatus Date arget ompletion Date Non-Public Area 1. Negative 1. The issue is in l. NTP given for MA-FAC 1. COMP l. 7-7-16 pressure of the the Metro door study. A ENG 7-7-16 ventilation system Safety Hazard Survey began created an issue Log for July 5, 2016. where the door tracking Labels added to was dif?cult to purposes. doors. open while the Apply fans were running. warning labels on doors to alert workers of the hazard. 2. Residual dirt 2. Clean ?oors 2. Floors MTA-FAC 2. INPRG 2. 7-17-16 and water le? scheduled for 7-7-16 from water cleaning 7-8-16 Friday, July 08, 2016 Mondawmin Walk Through 2016 Action Items ITEM Discrepancy Action Plan Progress 'ResponsibilityiStatus Date Target Completion - .Date I I M-007 Rm. 301 Fan/Coil i Room 3 . . 1. SSF (station 1. Change 1. Filters will be '7-8-16 supply fan) ?lters iltets. replaced 7-8- 7-7-16 need to be 16. changed. 2. Complaint that 2. Coordinate 2. Alerted MTA-FAC MGR TINPRG 7-22-16 ?lters are not supplies with storeroom 7-7- '7-7-16 available Storeroom 16 of need to adjust inventory on supply of ?lters so facilities can begin campaign . to replace I system wide. I M-OOS Supply Vent to Investigate and Vent is currently ICOMP 6-24-16 SCC booth. There change ?lter. ?ltered at unit on 6-20-16 is a vent in the return side but is not tunnel of visible. Filter was Mondawmin that replaced supplies fresh air approximately 3 to the SCC booth weeks ago. 7-?7-16 I and no apparent ?lter. Friday, July 08, 2016 Mondawmin Walk Through 2016 Action Items IITEM Discrepancy Action Plan I Progress lResponsibility?Status Date [Target i Completion I ?Date M-009 Emergency Egress Secure wires Wire Secured and 0MP 6-24-16 Identi?ed wires investigation I 1 -?7-16 labeled 277 volts discovered same I I hanging directly conditions on West in ?oat of the end, both ends Bilco hatch at the secured. East Emergency egress. Deluge Repair deluge system The system is being MTA-FAC COMP I1-7-16 System/Tunnel at Mondawmin. repaired tested and 7-7-16 Stand Pipe Engage engineering upgraded as required. A MGMT {Hazard Log to cenduct Mondawmin deluge Tracking will study of entire system repairs are completed be ongoing for integrity and 7-7-16 effort. program replacement Item is tracked going I as required by study. forward in Metro I Hazard logL I Friday, July 08, 2016 LMC PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Dwight Langhum Thursday, July 14, 2016 LMC 202.546.9170 UNADDRESSED SUBWAY REPAIRS POSE LIFE AND DEATH THREAT Baltimore, MD?Today the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) made public ?ve critical subway safety threats that the Maryland Transit Authority (MTA) has failed to address. These problems are known to have caused fatal accidents in other systems like Washington, DC and New York City. ATU is compelled to take today?s action in the wake of the refusal to act on urgent public safety matters. ?We have tried hard to work with the MTA to ?x these problems but our public sense of duty can no longer be ignored. These repairs must be made and they must be made now?, said David McClure, president, ATU Local 1300. ATU's initial inspection at only one station revealed the ?ve highlighted problems among an estimated 15 repairs that need to be performed. A thorough inspection and maintenance schedule have proven effective in ?xing these problems. Details of the most serious issues include: 1. Track Gaps?There are actual gaps between the tracks that have resulted in speed reductions so as to avoid rail derailments. 2. Fire Hazards?-?The ?re sprinkler system has improper pressurization. Also there is trash on the tracks near the third rail. 3. Electrical Hazards?Exposed wiring in station metal ?oor boards that could lead to electrocution. 4. Ventilation System?Insuf?cient fans that do not adequately clear smoke. 5. Emergency Exits?They are blocked, improperly ventilated, and have exposed high voltage wires. ATU began to formally notify the MTA about these problems and others more than a year ago. Please see the attached letter that documents the noti?cation attempts. PEEL If HMS IN Ilisuustell? Angry? Worried for you hnaltll? In Metro Subway, station managers experience this everyday. Often station managers will arrive at work with entire nests of rats sitting right below their feet. Frequently, the station managers need to vacate the station because the smell is so bad. Researchers at Johns Hopkins have found that rat exposure not only puts people at risk for serious pulmonary diseases, and parasitic infections, but can also cause acute depression. Unfortunately the MTA refuses to do anything to address the root causes of this rat problem, despite years of complaints. cm MIA AnMINIsmmn - I "v WC nus Is 410-454-711!" Like Us facebook.com/atu 1300 atulocal1300.org 1) 2) 3) Establishment of a joint union-management safety committee that will meet on a schedule, more often if required. LU 1300 President/Business Agent will select the union members of?the committee. Lost time for these meetings will be paid by MTA The right to bring health and safety experts on the MTA property. Access to the MTA non work areas for the purpose of health and safety surveys, education and interviews, by designees ofthe LU 1300 President/Business Agent. Kelly Bell From: Jim Ports Sent: - Sunday, February 11, 2018 11:37 AM To: - Kevin Quinn;Pete Rahn Cc: - James Giliece Subject: - Re: MDOT MTA Metro Subway - Shutdown Update Thanks Kevini Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone Original message From: Kevin Quinn Date: 2/11/13 10:45 AM To: Pete Rahn Jim Ports Cc: James Subject: MDOT MTA Metro Subway - Shutdown Update Pete and Jim- I wanted to provide an update on where we are with the shutdown based on the latest information. Tunnel Work Status . 0 Over the weeke nd we completed our inspection of the tunnel tracks. That inspection identified about 6,000 linear feet of rail that needed to be replaced. a We have mobilized all MDOT MTA MOW forces to work on the tunnel and repair work began on Saturday morning. . WMATA is providing both equipment and manpower assistance (aroundlz people) to speed up and assist with tunneltrack replacement. - - . Tunnel track work is currently estimated to be com piete next Tuesday That estimate" will be updated throughout the week. 1 Elevated Track Work Status - . Work on elevated section of track will begin on Monday. The-contractor has been given a Letter of intent for replacement of 33,000 linear feet of rail. 0 Work is expected to take 2 to 3 weeks. Bus Bridge . . Last night at 6 PM, Letters of Intent were issued to 2 Bus Bridge contractors for ?Express? and "Local? services that will begin on Monday?morning. . Cost of the bus bridge is estimated at for-El weeks. - We?wili closely modify hours, frequency, and length of the bus bridge based on ridership demands and as segments of the system come on-line that will likely reduce the cost. - . Express Service: I 0 Will operate Monday through Friday during peak hours (6 AM to 11 AM.) and (3 PM to 8 PM) Buses will run roughly every 20 minutes and stop at 6 of the 14 stations 0 Local Service: I 0 Will operate 7 days/week from 5 AM to midnight Buses will run roughly every 30 minutes and stop at all 14 stations - Transit Ambassadors will be deployed at key stations, with a focus on the northern stations in the AM and a focus on the southern stations are coordinating with Baltimore City DOT provide them with intersections where traf?c enforcement officers can assist with enhanced enforcement of dedicated bus la nes and bus stop parking enforcement We are workingwith Erin on a press release that we are ?nalizing to get out ASAP. The team is having regular calls at 10 AM (Senior Management) and 4 PM (Engineeringand Track Maintenance - detailed discussion) each day. This will'continue throughout the shutdown. . Please let me know if you have any questions. I?ll continue to keep you updated. -kq Kevin B. Quinn, Jr. Administrator Maryland Transit AdministrotIOn Office of the Administrator 6 St. Poul Street, BoltimOre,- MD 21 202 Office: 4i 0-767?3943 Fox: 410333-3279 kouinn?mto.morvlond.qov M..L.1Drnanvtano DEPARTHEHT or: saauspon'mloa. MARYLAND The Department of Transportation is uslomer?drtven leader that delivers sore. sustainable. intelligent. and exceptional transportation solutions in order to connect our customers to life?s opportunities. The Maryland Transit providing sate. efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class Customer service. Kelly Bell From: . - Jim Ports Sent: . Friday, February 16,2018 11:51 AM To: Kevin Quinn;James Gillece Subject: FW: METRO rail problems FYI from'Bob Mowry below. Jim Parts, com. csso Deputy Secretary for Operations 5:35:21: HARVLAN DE PARTH EHT OF TRANSPORTATION. Maryland Department of Transportation 7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover, MD 21076 410-865-1002 (direct) 410-365-1340 (fax) 410-562-0086 (celi) Niaryland ioorts@mdot.state.md.us for Barn-r _htt land. oy MISSION STATEMENT I . ?The Maryland Department of Transportation is a MARYLAND DEPARTMENT customer-driven leader that delivers safe. sustainable, OF TRANSPORTATION, intelligent, and exceptional transportation solutions in order to connect our customers to life?s opportunities.? From: Robert Mowry Sent: Friday, February 16,2013 12:26 AM To: Jim Ports Subject: METRO rail problems . Hello Jim, Guess this message from me will surprise you. Not trying to meddle but this situation on the METRO line has caught my attention. I spent seven (7) years of my 32 years at MTA managing the METRO system. Can?t help but think if this had happened on my watch, my career would have ended much sooner than it did. - Anyhow, i read the article in today?s Sunpaper which contained a link to a story published on Monday that included a video of your testimony on Monday in Annapolis. . I?m sure you are involved and hopefully have been fully informed about the many intricacies and moying parts surrounding this track issue. I wanted to share my own personal and professional insight on this problem with you. First, track inspections: A section of the mainline is supposed to be inspected daily culminating in a complete line inspection during a one week period. Inspectors are required to examine track condition (including wear, spalling, cracks, welds), ball of rail, gauge between rails, concrete ties or wooden ties, fosters, tie plates, insulating pads, switch points (frogs), cabling, switch blocks, IJ connections and ballast. I may have missed a few. Any problem areas or areas of concern are noted and field marked. Serious problems result in immediate repair including implementing speed . restrictions in the affected area and or single tracking. Problem areas are reported to OCC and then incorporated into the Daily Operating Report (DOR) which is posted daily for operators to read prior to pulling ?out. Immediate problems are reported to OCC and result in an all call via the radio to operators informing them of the change intheir train operation. Each Operator much acknowledge receipt of that cummunication. Second, rail transposition: As rail wears, and if measurements are properly read, it is recorded and scheduled for . corrective action. One solution is to transpose the rail, basically flipping rails from one side to the other. The ball of the rail is designed to allow this action and extends the life of the track and reduces the cost of replacement. i would be curious if any of the current track has been transposed and if so when. Another note, once rail is transposed METRO should be requesting capital funds to purchase new rail. Transit properties never keep enough track on site to replace the entire line but there still needs to. be minimum lineal feet on site. - Third, rail grinding and profile: Every few years i 3-5 on ave rage if I recall) MTA would contract with a company that performs this. function. .it is expensive and was usually performed after revenue service. You need to schedule this work well in advance because the equipment is highly specialized and is in high demand. All railroads, freight and transit utilize this equipment. The cost was usually requested as part of the capital programming process, hence the need for scheduling the work during the fiscal year funds were programmed. This machine both grinds the top of the rail for smoothness but it also pro?les the ball of the rail where the wheel flange interfaces with the rail. Fourth, ballast regulator: Another capital expense, but necessary, is to shake and temp the ballast around the ties. The MTA has field tam pers but the ballast tamper actually lifts the tracks and ties and then vibrates the ballast which tightens the integrity of the track bed. It also helps remove the dust and grime that naturally occurs from the ballast grinding ca used by the weight-of trains passing over the track bed. Some of the stories i have read in the paper noted operators reporting swaying of trains..This is definitely a sign of ballast instability. Tacks will also pump if the ballast has settled. - Fifth, wheel profile: Now that MTA has determined tracks need to be replaced then I would be concerned about the interface of the wheel profile against the ball of the rail. If the rail is worn as badly as reported, then shutting down the line was absolutely the correct call. That tells me the wheel could be hunting on the rail which of course can lead to derailments. Once the rails are replaced then the wheel profile needs to be checked. I seem to recall METRO was requesting replacement of the wheel true machine in the shop, which cuts the wheels to the appropriate profile, but don?t know if it was ever replaced. I know sometimes this equipment can be upgraded but if that piece of equipment is still there then it's the original. New track and worn wheels will not insure a return to full operation speeds once emergency repairs are made. Sixth, training "and follow through: Obviously training records should be revieWed, especially for the track inspectors. Is the equipment they?re using, like gauge bars properly calibrated. Do they know how to use new equipment, I?m sure . theirtools of the trade have probably changed since my tenure. If so, is this equipment calibrated per manufacturers recommendations. Revisit SOPS for reporting and tracking reported problems. Hate to say this but are reports being monitored by upper management and are issues being properly vetted during weekly staff meetings when Work Orders are discussed for the following week. How are major projects for capital programming being prioritized? I remember we were having problems on Trackz (outbound) in the curve between Charles Center and Lexington Market. We were wearing rail and wheels out like crazy. Implemented a speed restriction and ordered tests. We actually were fearful that the super elevation was improper. At that time a contractor was hired to perform an extensive lateral dynamic test which examined lateral and vertical loads, on both the tracks and car trucks. Can't - remember the name of the firm that did the work but the test results were Well worth the expense. Fortunately the 2 super eieyation was okay but the wheel to ball of rail profile Was wrong. We ending up grinding the rail and replacing a significant number of wheels. You can google rial profileand numerous papers and reports will pop up. Always good to check what other properties have done and of course APTA, TRB and PTA would be good resources. 1 read HTNB examined the track and confirmed and/or recommended the immediate rail replacement to the the Administration. I?m also sure you are all over this issue and will provide the required direction. Feel free to ignore my rant but I still can't just sit by idling when I see news reports slamming an agency that i stiil care about. I Hope your doing well and if you want to chat please feel free to drop me a note or give me a can" Bob Kelly Bell From: Jim Ports Sent: Sunday, November 12. 2017 7:43 AM To: - John Duncan;i Subject: Metro Mainline De'railmen't A Metro Mainline Derailrnent occurred at Location: West of State Center interlocking mainline track 1 Date: 11/12/2017 Time: 02:31 am - Details: On 11/ 12/201? at 01:33 am Maintenance of Way 7626 contacted Metro Operation Control Center via radio requesting a route back to the Portal from State Center to retrieve additional materials At approximately 02:24 am 7626 contacted Metro Operation Control Center via radio requesting that Metro Operation Control Center contact 7621 or 7616 to assist him'west of State Center interlocking on-track 1 7621 responded and stated that he was in route to his location At approximately 02:31 am 7626 contact Metro Operation Control Center via land line stating that Hi Rail vehicle 720 derailed west of State Center interlocking on - track 1 7626 also stated that another Hi Rail vehicle was needed at the scene to lift the derailed truck out of the track bed Per 7626 the derailment was caused by a bolt that became dislodged from the wheel on Hi Rail vehicle 720 additional information is as follows at 02:43 am 7626 reported no damage to the track, running rail, and 3rd rail at 02:45 am 7626 was in route to Old Court to pick up Hi Rail Speed Swing 703 at 02:48 am Mechanics in route to State Center at 04:03 am 7626 entered the mainline from Old Court to State Center to begin repairs on the derailed Hi Rail vehicle 720 Metro Operation Control Center was contacted by the on duty safety officer and the Metro on call duty of?cer no additonal information to report at this time Car or Equipment Number: Hi Rail 720 . Direction: Eastbound - . Departments Telephoned: Metro Operation Central, Center Manager Kelly Bell From: I Kevin Quinn Sent: Monday, February 12, 2018 1:05 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: Metro Maintenance funding .lim- See below. We?ve spent in Metro maintenance projects over the last 10 years. Last 3 years was nearly And 'the FY17 amount of was more than we had spent in a single year since FY09. FY 07 19,466 FY08 34.320 FY 09 - 31,555 FY10 29,628 FY11 194247 FY12 16,345 FY13 20.499 FY14 16.895 FY15 - 14.103 FY16 17,960 FY17 29,837 Total 250,355 Kevin B. Quinn, Jr. Administrator Transit Administration Office of The Adminis?rrc?ror 6 31. Paul Sireet. Baltimore. MD 21202 Office: 41 0-767-3943 Fax: 41 0-333-3279 kouirmmiomorviondaov MiLQ.Drr-Mnnmo oemnmem OF TRANSPORTATION. 11:111me TRANSITADMINISTRATION The Maryland Department of Transponoiion is a cusfomer?d?ven leader that delivers safe. sustainable. and excepiimiai rn order in connect on: cusiomers in Me's opportunities. The Maryland Aciminisiroiion. providing safe. efficient and fE-liCiOlE? irons}! ucros5 Momma with Cusiomer service. Kelly Bell From: . Kevin Quinn Sent: . Sunday, February 11, 2018 9:01 PM To: - Jim Ports;Pete Rahn Cc: - James Gillece Subject: RE: MDOT MTA Metro Subway - Shutdown Update Petefiin'iw Some updates on the shutdown for use in your meetings tomorrow if you need it: Rail Repair MTA and WMATA forcesare continuing to work throughout the night to replace rail in the tunnel; WMATA asSistance will complete tonight - 0 Work on elevated section still scheduled to begin tomorrow as contractor mobilizes . I walked 2 miles of tunnel track this afternoon with MTA and WMATA staff; get a good, in-depth overview of some of the issues - Bus Bridge . 0 Bus Bridge signage has been completed at all Metro stations as of 745 PM I This evening we conducted meetings with bus bridge contractor and did a dry run of the Local and Express bus routes a Bus bridge contractors have been given ?Local? and ?Express? signage for the front windshield of their buses - . i conveyed our bus bridge turn?by?turn directions and requested the City to assist with dedicated lane enforce ment in key areas . 0 Transit Ambassadors trained and ready to go in the morning MTA Supervisors and MTA Police will also assist passengers and monitor the bus bridge- Media] Communications Press release sent out today at 230 PM - Conduct?d TV interviews with WJZ, WBAL, Fox45, and WMAR between 4 and 5 PM Also conducted newspaper interviews with AP and Baltimore Sun Posted advisories, sent e-alerts to customers, recorded and deployed updated audio announcements at all Light Rail and'Metro Stations 0 Updates posts to Facebook, Twitter, and website Attendants at each Metro station have been provided leaflets to he nd out to passengers indicating alternative travel options - I Bus Operators have been alerted to the bridge and will instruct passengers boarding the vehicle and exiting at Metro stations . . . Call Center agents have been provided alternative travel information to assist customers; also, over the weekend our call center was open from 6 AM to 4 PM (it's usually closed) - Coordinated with SHA to place variable message signs at 7 Metro Stations Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks!_ -kq From: Jim Ports . Sent: Sunday, February 11, 2018 11:37 AM To: Kevin Quinn Cc: James Gillece Subject: Re: MDOT MTA Metro Subway - Shutdown Update Thanks Kevin! Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone Original message From: Kevin Quinn uin'n mta.ma land. ov> Date: 2/11/18 10:45 AM To: Pete Rahn .lim Ports orts mdot.state.rnd.us> Cc: James Gillece Subject: MDOT MTA Metro Subway - Shutdown Update Pete and Jim- I wanted to provide an update on where we are with the shutdown based on the latest information. Tunnel Work Status I Over the weekend we completed our inspection of the tunnel tracks. That inspection identified about 6,000 . linear feet of rail that needed to be replaced. - Wehave mobilized all MTA MOW forces to work on the tunnel and repair work began on Saturday morning. . . - WMATA is providing both equipment and manpower assistance (around 12 people) to speed up and assist with tunnel track replacement. - Tunnel track work is currently estimated to be complete next Tuesday That estimate will be updated throughout the week. - . Elevated Track Work Status . - . Work on elevated section of track will begin on Monday. The contractor has been given a Letter of Intent for replacement of 33,000 linear feet of rail. - Work is expected to ta ke.2 to 3 weeks. Bus Bridge . - . - . - a Last night at 6 PM, Letters of intent were issued to 2 Bus Bridge contractors for ?Express" and ?Local? services that will begin on Monday morning. Cost of the bus bridgeis estimated at for 4 weeks. We will closely modify hours, frequency, and length of the bus bridge based on ridership demands and as segments of the system come on?line that will likely reduce the cost. . Express Service: 0 Will operate Monday through Friday during peak hours (PM) Buses will run roughly every 20 minutes and stop at 6 of the 14 stations 0 Local Service: 0 Will operate 7 days/week from 5 AM to midnight 'o Buses will runroughly every 30 minutes and stop at all 14 stations . TransitArnbassadors will be deployed at key stations, with a focus on the northern stations in the AM and a focus on the southern stations in the PM . We are coordinatingwith Baltimore City DOT provide them with intersections where traffic enforcement of?cers can assist with enhanced enforcement of dedicated bus lanes and bus stop parking enforcement We are working with Erin on a press release that we are ?nalizing to get out ASAP. 2 The team is having regular calls at 10 AM [Senior Management) and 4 PM (Engineering arid Track Maintenance- detailed discussion) each day This Will continue throughout the shutdown. Please let me know if you have any questions. i it continue to keep you updated. -kq Kevin B. Quinn, Jr. Administrator Maryland Transit Administration Office of the Administrator 6 St. Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21202 Of?ce: 410? 767? 3943 Fax: 410- 333- 3279 kouinn@mto. moo/land. Ciov Mai: ?menu-Ia DEPARTMENT OF mansponm?lou MARYLAND TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION The ?Maryland Depart meni of Is a customer driven leader that oetivers safe- sustainaoie intelligent. and exceptional transportation Solutions: in orde: to connect our Customers to life 5 opportunities. The Maryland Tmnsii Adminisholion prox iding sate. efficient and reliable lr-onsi! across xvi-among with woitd- c1035 customer senate Kelly Bell From: - Paul Comfort Sent: Saturday.- Februaiy 04, 2017 6:20 AM To: - Brian Williams;PeterTollini Subject: . Monday Just want to be sure you are aware we are meeting with Delegate Dana Stein and others to include Dave McClure on Monday at 1 pm_in the 5th floor conference room to discuss a follow up on Metro cleanliness and safety issues. Please notify Vastina. We will not be having any business on the 12th floor. Paul Comfort MTA Administrator Sent on my iPhone ?y Bell 1. From: Paul Comfort Sent: Sunday, September 06. 2015 To: Jim Ports - Subject: Fwd: Bed Bugs at Lexington Market Station Just FYI Paul Comfort MTA Administrator Sent from my iPhone Begin ferwa rded message: From:"Eric Bowser" . To: ?Chuck Brown" Cc:"Kim mtama land. Davis" ?John Duncan" ?Paul Comfort" Childress" Subject: RE: Bed Bugs at Lexington Market Station Good morning All. Progress Update: Lexington market Benches: The benches at Lexington Market were removed from the portal and disposed ol?at the city dump. Two temporary benches were installed on the platform at Lexington Market Station. Additional temporary benches will be installed, however they will not be similar. Please see the attached photo of what was installed. On Behalf ot the Metro Team, I would like to express toy-appreciation to everyone that came to the aid of Metro to remedy an issue that could have escalated to serious matter. The project is still in progress, however the worst is behind us as we work to improve service on the Metro.- Thank you, this could not have happened without your support. Rail Replacement Progress update: Sunday, September 06, 2015 Pick up and deliver Benches from - MOW Complete Lexington Market . . Load and deliver the remainder of the rail onto site at State Center place in the gage of the track. Begin unclipping the old'rail MOW In progress/Scheduled for Saturday and Sunday Finish unctipping the- old rail, mark MOW In progress/Scheduled for Sunday where it is to be cut Perform a Vehicle Inspection of Mainline Begin cutting and removing the old MOW In Pregress/Scheduled for Monday rail and installing the new into place Lexington Market Platform Benches?Updates to follow: Progress Update: Sunday. September 06, 20l5 Home Paramount to treat affected Home Paramount Complete benches immediately Remove benches from platfomi Facilities Complete Maintenance Metro - Quarantine benches and cover Facilities Complete with-ply-wood . Maintenance Metro Remove affected benches from MOW Complete platform and deliver to portal temporarily Home Paramount to treat every Facilities Complete station and all floors of The Maintenance Central Control Center Metrofl-Iome Paramount . . Home Paramount to treat the Railcar/llome In Progress/will coordinate with Railcar . entire Metro Fleet Paramount Maintenance as to not impact revenue service. . pro-active measure even though no bed bugs reported. Remove affected benches from MOW Complete Portal and dispose ol? at City Dump . . Install temporary benches on the Facilities In Progress/Two benches were installed Saturt platform Maintenance Metro More benches will be installed See attached photos Select and install new benches on MetroiEngineering In progress Metro and Engineering will meet I: the platform - Tuesday at Lexington Market to make a determination if the pedestal should be removi and entire newly designed bench should be installed 1 . . Select/Design and install new Metro! Facilities in Progress/No selection made at this point bench on the platform Maintenance Replace all benches in the Metro/Engineering Phase II underground Metro Stations/and wooden benches in the Aerial Stations. if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me. fm glam *Manager not Maintenance (Acting) Phone: 410454-7356 Fax: 410?454-1810 Email: EBowseertamaryiandgov From: Eric Bowser .. . .. . Sent: Saturday, September 05, 2015 4:23 AM To: Chuck Brown; Michelle Holly; Leslie Salgado; Priya Iyer. Cc: Kim Bush;-Keith Jenkins; Catrice Davis; John Duncan; Paul Comfort; Joseph Childress; Suhair AlKhatib; Fred Damron; David Varner Subject: RE: Bed Bugs at Lexington Market Station Good morning all, Lexington market Benches: 'l?he benches at Lexington Market have been removed. Facilities crew dismantled the bench and alter revenue. MOW crews came to remove the wooden benches from the platform and re-locate them to the'Portal. Metro'will have the wooden benches properly diSposed at the city dump later today. Will keep you updated Home-Paramount pest control technician did not readily see or observe and bugs yesterday afternoon. However he did treat the affected benches before the crews began to dismantle the them. Rail Replacement Maintenance of Way (MOW) delivered rail yesterday and this morning in preparation for - I welding, removing the defective rail and installation. I will keep updated on the progress as the information becomes available. Action Plan: Lexington Market Platform Benches-Updates to follow Home Paramount to treat affected Home Paramount Complete benches immediately Remove benches From platform . Facilities Complete Maintenance Metro 3 Quarantine benches and. cover with ply-wood Facilities Maintenance Metro Complete/see photos install temporary benches on the platform Maintenance Metro Remove affected benches from MOW Complete platform and deliver to portal temporarily Home Paramount to treat every Facilities Complete station and all floors of The Maintenance Central Control Center Metro/Home Paramount Home Paramount to treat the RailcarIHome in Progress/will coordinate with Railcar entire Metro Fleet Paramount Maintenance as to not impact revenue service. pro? ?active measure even though no bed bugs . . reported. Remove affected- from Contractor In progress! scheduled for Saturday? Portal and dispose of at City Dump Facilities In progressischeduled for Saturday Select and install new benches on the platform MetroXEngineering lnprogress Metro and Engineering will meet 0 Tuesday at Lexington Market to make a determination if the pedestal should be remove and entire newly designed bench should be installed Metro! Facilities underground Metro Stations/and wooden benches in the Aerial Stations. Select/Design and install new In Progressto selection made at this point bench on the platform - Maintenance Replace all benches in the Metro/Engineering Phase II If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me. - - Manager of Maintenance (Acting) Phone: 410-454-7356 Cell: 410-336-8139 Fax': 410-454-1810 Email: From: Chuck Brown Sent: Friday, September 04 2015 10:13 PM To: Michelle Holly Cc: Kim Bush; Chuck Brown; Keith Jenkins; Eric Eowser; Catrice Davis; John Duncan Subject: Re: Bed Bugs at Lexington Market Station 4 . Make sure to keep on message and use the points in the email as a guide. Thanks. Sent from my iPhone On Sep 4, 2015, at 9:26 PM, Michelle Holly wrote: After further discussion with Mr. lenkinsand Ms. Davis each station attendant working Lexington Market Station will receive a personnel call from management regarding the issue at that station. Contact began tonight. Michelle Holly On Sep 4, '2015, at 8:19 PM, Kim Bush wrote: Michelle, change of plans. Please inform the staff verbally only. Do not post. Thank you. . From: Michelle Holly Sent: Friday, September 04, 2015 08:15 PM To: Chuck Brown Co: Keith Jenkins; Eric Bowser; Catrice Davis; Kim Bush; John Duncan Subject: Re: Bed Bugs at Lexington Market Station Metro is prepared to distribute a memorandum to all personnel regarding this issue first thing tomorrow. Mail is normally delivered to stations on Friday mornings. We will have Field Supervision distribute. - Michelle Holly On Sep 4, 2015, at 8:04 PM, Kim Bush wrote: See below From: Kim Bush Sent: Friday, September 04, 2015 08:02 PM To: Chuck Brown; John Duncan - . Subject: Re: Bed Bugs at Lexington Market Station - Good point. They do not have email, I will ask Metro to post it for them. From: Chuck Eli-town - Sent: Friday, September 04, 2015 07:54 PM To: Kim Bush; John Duncan Subject: RE: BedBugs at Lexington Market Station - Thanks again Kim. Question(s): What about the employees who actually work inside the station? Are they on this distribution list? Would hate to leave them off since they work closer to these benches. From: Kim Bush Sent: Friday, September 04, 2015 5:59 PM To: Avanti Fulwood; Betty Thomas; Cecelia Baker; David Powell; Dean Adkins; Donna Dorsey; Eva Cortes; Faye Hayes; Frank Thomas; Greta Williams-Gray; James Newton; Khadijah All; Kim Harris; Latronda Williams; Leonard Talbot; Portia West; Shalon Emptage; She-Ron . Thomas; Sheila Trotter-Shipman; Shelby Lapps; Stacey Hill; Terri German; Terria Key; Anwar Bethea; Arthur Maison; Lewis; Cyprian Johnson; Dorothy Mullinlx; Helen Morgan; Jandanesha McNair; Johnette McKoy; Kenneth Spencer; Maria Pierce; Martina Squire; Niesha Goodwin; Paxton Bowden; Randy Boatswain; Richard Stanley; Sean Givens; Shedrick Williams; Steven Hennigan; Tamika Patterson; William Johnson, R. Alphonso Smith; Brad Budd; Dana Tapley; Darwin Clifton; Gregory Huiswoud; Gregory Williams; Jeffrey Howard; Jill Williams; Kamau Robinson; Karen Cutler; Latasha Williams; Marguerite Howard? Pittman; Marvain Wall; Phillip Johnson;'Rhoda McCullough; Charles Neal; Jonathan Newsome; Kim Bush; LaToya Pratt; Vinnette Johnson; Brenda Mackv Thomas; Cheryl Savage; Cheryl White; Darlene Jordan Subject: Bed Bugs at Lexington Market Station Dear MTA Employees, I want to alert you to the presence of bed bugs found at the Lexington Market Metro Subway Station. Following several recent pest-control inspections, bed bugs were found on all three wooden benches located at the lower level of the station. We are treating these benches today and will remove and dispose of all three benches - later this evening. As a precaution, we immediately inspected all similar wooden benches in the seven other .- underground Metro Subway Stations today for the presence of these bugs. Although we found no signs of bed bugs in any other benches at the other statio ns, we are having the pest-control company treat these benches today out of an abundance of caution. The inspection of'all other station's will start today and be - complete in the next several days. While this situation appears to be isolated and limited to the three wooden benches at the Lexington Market Station, we are taking it very seriously and will do everything necessary to protect our Customers and employees. To ensure the safety of MTA employees working in the Operations Control Center, we will inspect the entire OCC facility and Metro Subway fleet starting tonight. This inspection will be complete in the next few days. While all trains were inspected on Friday, August 28, and no evidence of bed bugs were found, we will inspect the entire Metro Subway fleet again and treat as necessary. This inspection will be complete in the next few days. Based on the results of all these inspections, we will plan for possible further inspections and/or treatment. i will keep you updated via email on our progress over the next several days. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Thank you, Kim Kim L. Bush Director Operations Control Center Maryland Transit Administration 301 N. Eutaw St. Baltimore, MD 21201 Office 410?454-7748 Cell 443-740~0433 Kelly Bell I I From: . Jim Ports Sent: -. Friday, July 15, 2016 7:21 AM To: - Erin Henson;Craig Williams -GOV-;Jeannie Riccio McGrath - Clark - - DeLeaver-Churchill -GOV-;Hannah Marr Hall -GOV-;Corbett Webb Rahn;R. Eari Lewis;Geoffrey Hengerer -GOV-;Kevin Reigrut;CharIes Glass;Heather Murphy;Deborah Haynie;Sarah Hoyt;.lane Wiliiams;John Trueschler?eri Moss;Gary Witherspoon Cc: Paul Comfort;Ryan Nawrocki;$andy Amette;Paul Shepard;.lames Knighton Subject: RE: Transit union media coverage tonight Re: HEADS UP Media - Tonight Union Claims MTA Metro Subway is Unsafe i guess he didn?t notice the deplorable conditions in the previous Administration. After ?decades of neglect.? Jim Ports, CCTM. csso Deputy Secretary for Operations I Maryland Department of Transportation CHANGING 7201Corporate Center Drive Maryland Hanover, MD 21075 Better 410-865-1002 (direct) 410-865-1340 (fax) 410?562?0086 (cell) iports@mdot.state.md.us Mar, 1a dDepartment ?Transportation "'l'hr Mair-$11331 ?I'li ?i?llilbil is a I w: autumn-mil? under that andexrie'ptimul transportation isolulmns 1n unit-r :1 . {unravel ?ux?{customers From: Erin Henson Sent: Thursday; July 14, 2016 3:07 PM . - . To: Craig Williams Jeannie Riccio Roy McGrath Matt Clark -GOV- douglass.mayer@maryland.gbv; Shareese Hannah Marr Kata Hall Corbett Webb Pete Rahn; Jim Ports; R. Earl Lewis; Geoffrey Hengerer Kevin Reigrut; Charles Glass; Heather Murphy; Deborah Haynie; Sarah Hoyt; Jane Williams; John Trueschl?er; Teri Moss; Gary Witherspoon - Cc: Paul Comfort; Ryan Nawrocki; Sandy Amette; Paul Shepard; James Knighton . Subject: Transit union media coverage tonight Re: HEADS UP - Media - Tonight - Union Claims MTA Metro Subway Is Unsafe 1 All, See below media coverage'of transit union and safety concerns. Erin Hansen Director of Public Affairs Maryland Department of Transportation 410-865-1025 (office) 443-829-9385 (cell) Email: ehenson@mdot.maryland.gov MDOT website: Twitter: Fox 45 also Will cover the story this evening. To view the video with this story, click: http: baltimoresun. com/news/marvland/baltimore- city/bs-md- htmi Transit union says more work needed to fix Baltimore?s Metro safety issues Andrew DunnThe Baltimore Sun I Baltimore transit union called for more repairs on subway system Thursday and released photos showing serious The local transit union on Thursday said the plans to fix the Baltimore Metro subway fall short of addressing the major safety and health issues that put riders and workers at risk. David McClure, president of Baltimore Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300, said the Maryland Transit Administration has neglected the main issues his workers have raised, despite this week?s announcement of a 23-day partial shutdown for critical maintenance that wili cost $16 million. "This Is not only about the union, it's about the riding public as well McClure said I "We have one objective here and that's to provide a safe and efficient service to the riding public which at this point, I can't say that we re actually doing that. in a statement, MTA of?cials said safety is their No. 1 priority. Nearly $670 million was spent in the past year on planned safety upgrades, according to the agency. $600 million of that was spent on 90 new rail cars and a new signaling system. ."We take every step to ensure our customers and employees are safe on our System," an MTA statement said. McClure called the potential for smoke or a fire breaking out ?very likely" if the fire and electrical hazards are not addressed. When asked about the idea of anemergency subway shutdown, McClure said that is the type of action he would seek. "That's what'needs to happen," McClure said at a news conference. The 2,700?member union released photos from a June 17 walk through of the Mondawmin station with MTA safety officials, "showing unsafe and decrepit subwayconditions. I Brian Sherlock, a worker safety specialist for the national transit union, said he observed decades Of neglect when he toured and documented the station. "It doesn?t get much worse," Sherlock said. The photos show high voltage rat zappers in public places where people could touch them, outdated and decomposing smoke detectors, exposed live-wires, wet floors, a defective ventilation system, rusting pipes and substandard fire extinguishers on the floor. The administration said in its statement that many of- the issues described by the union were since corrected. MTA spokeswoman Sandy Arnette said the agency has not yet seen the pictures. - - Sherlock said the visit reminded him of the Washington metro system. A smoke-filled train in Washington's metro killed one woman and left more than 80 passengers with respiratory issues in January 2015. He Said a similar situation could happen in Baltimore. - McClure said workers informed him of how bad the conditions were in the past couple months. - "i feel guilty myself right now beca'uSe l'm allowing my members to go into a deplorable situation that they should not have to begoing into," McCiu're said. McClure said he questioned whether MTA officials were taking the situation seriously after months of rescheduled and canceled meetings. In a statement, the MTA said their leadership team "regularly" meets with employees in a timely manner to discuss their concerns. The union also met with state and city lawmakers recently to discuss the possibility of legislation that may help address the issues. The MTA's repair plan will begin July 22 and run through Aug. 14. It will shut down service between Mondawmin Mail and Milford Mill, providing free shuttle buses as a temporary substitute for riders. . Union Calling For Emerge ncy? Shutdown 0f Baltimore Metro Subway iuly 14, 2016 4:21 PM By Meghan McCorkell BALTIMORE (W32) The transit union is calling for an immediate emergency shutdown of the Baltimore Metro Subway, saying safety hazards threaten the lives of both ride rs and workers. . MTA is already planning to shut down part of the system this month for track work, but union of?cials say that?s not enough. Faulty wiring, rotted pipes, a broken sprinkler system, decaying smoke detectors and live wires hanging across emergency exits those are just some of the safety issues union leaders say were found inside one Baltimore Metro Subway station. ?This 'is not only about the union, it's about the riding public a swell,? said David McClure, Local 1300 president. Now they' re calling for emergency shutdowns to address safety concerns. 3 ?People?s lives are being put at risk across a wide array of hazards,? said Brian Sherlock, union safety specialist. in January of 2015, a smoke-?lled D.C. Metro tunnel killed one woman and injured dozens more. I Union safety specialist 'Br-ian Sherlock says the same thing could easily happen in Baltimore. 'f'From the fire suppression systems that are supposed to put out the flames to the ventilation that are supposed to make sure people can breathe. All of those systems are in disrepair said Sherlock Transit officials will already shut down part of the system for-track work. From July 22 to August 14, re pairs will stop- service between Mondawmin and Milford Mill. MTA officials say they?ve been planning the repairs and shutdown for the past two years. ?We want to avoid a situation where We have to be In an emergency situation,? said Suhair AI Khatib Maryland Transit Administration. But union officials contend it already is urgent. "Where?s the safety? Who?s safe down there? Because it certainly ain?t my members and it?s certainly not the riding . public,? McClure said. . Union officials met with local lawmakers Thursday morning to discuss their safety concerns. On Jul 14, 2016, at 6:03 PM, Erin Henson wrote: All, See attachedthe press release from the ATU Local 1300 claiming thatthere are unsafe conditions on MTA Metro Subway. In addition to reminding media that wejust announced the shutdown of Metro Subway because of our commitment to safety and addressing know issues MTA provided the additional attached response to media outlining all the investments made to address the safety issues and our partnership with the union to address these Issues. Erin Henson - Director of Public Affairs Maryland Department of Transportation 41078654025 (office) 443?829-9336 (coll) Email: MDOT website: Twitter: 0530. IPG. Response to Local 1300 docx} Metro Shutdown Release Kelly Bell. From: Paul Comfort Sent: Sunday, }anuary 15, 2017 12:31 PM To: . Bud Frank:Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Lexington. Street fire FYI - City Fire department caused flooding in our Lexington Market metro station. Our top ops management team is on site working to mitigate. Bus bridge is up as station is closed. .. 15-Jan-2017 11:49 HM . I Paul Comfort MTA Administrator Sent on my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: John Duncan Date: January 15, 2017 at 11:52:27 AM EST To: Paul Comfort Subject: Fwd: Lexington Street fire 4 Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Timothy Perry Cc: Fred Darnron Subject: Lexington Street ?re Mobile Command has clearedthe scene,_however fire is not under control. They will be bringing in heavy equipment later today. Contact: Captain Don Cruz, BCFD Communications 410.396.5684 Captain Radd (Office of Emergency MAnagement 410.960.7128) will Send personnel over to meet with Eric Bozer, MTA Facilities to see how they can divert the water. Lt. Timothy R. PerryI Commander, Administrative Unit Ma ryiand Transit Administration - Police Force . 4?01 Mt Hope Drive, Baltimore, MD 21215 Of?ce: 410?454-1644 Fax: 410-764-5431 tgeermtamamlandgov Proving safe, 'efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer seerce. Kelly Bell From: Jim Ports Sent: Wednesday, November 23, 2016 7:43 AM To: Paul Comfort;James Knighton Subject: FW: REMINDER - RATS - NEWS TOMORROW - MTA Tour - Baltimore City Elected Officials and Union Mondawmin Paul and Jim: Looking back at this, did we receive any calls from the public after this stunt? See information below. From: Erin Henson Sent: Tuesday, November 22, 2016 6:44 PM To: douglass.mayer@maryland.gov; Amelia Chasse -GOV- Shareese DeLeaver-Churchill -GOV- Cc: Gary Witherspoon Ryan Nawrocki Jim Ports Sarah Hoyt Subject: REMINDER - RATS NEWS TOMORROW - MTA Tour - Baltimore City Elected Officials and Union - Mondawmin Doug, Amelia, See is the union and Baltimore City Delegation that we talked about last week. Last time the union toured the Mondawmin was the result. Erin To view video: MTA workers protest subway rats WMAR Staff 11:52 AM, Jun 2,2016 Members of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1300 will protest the subway's ongoing rat problem. Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: WMAR Maryland Transit Administration workers donned rat masks and handed out ?yers asking subway passengers how they'd like it if they had rats in their of?ce during a protest Thursday morning. Members of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300 said they were protesting the subway's ongoing rat problem. The ?yers also asked the public to call the MTA about the problem. MTA workers protest subway rats WMAR Staff 152 AM. Jun 2, 20H) 17 mins ago Maryland Transit Administration workers donned rat masks and handed out ?yers asking subway passengers how they'd like it if they had rats in their of?ce during a protest Thursday morning. Members of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300 said they were protesting the subway's ongoing rat problem. The ?yers also asked the public to call the MTA about the problem. In a statement, MTA spokeswoman Sandy Arnette defended the agency's extermination policy and called the union's tactics "a publicity stunt." The full statement reads: The goal is to provide safe, e??icient, reliable transit with world-class customer service. We at the MTA take every step necessary to ensure our employees? work conditions meet the highest levels of safety and cleanliness and that our customers have a positive experience while on our transit system. We have no recent records of any customer complaints about rodents in our Metro system. The MTA and Local 1300 signed a new collective bargaining agreement within the past month that was overwhelmingly ratified by union membership. During these negotiations, the issue of rats in the Metro Subway was not brought up. It seems that today?s publicity stunt is nothing more than an attempt for union leadership to solidify votes leading up to their elections next week. An on-call company routinely exterminates all Metro Subway stations, including the Mondawmin Metro Station. In fact, this contract was recently increased to ensure that we have an effective defense against vermin. MTA management regularly meets with union and non-union employees to discuss issues that concern them. This includes regular brown-bag lunches Administrator Paul Comfort holds to listen to and address employee concerns throughout the organization. In fact, we?re in constant contact with our union employees and have taken steps to address all of their complaints in a timely manner. We also strictly enforce a no-eating and no-drinking policy in our system with both uniformed and plain- clothed MTA police officers. No matter how hard we work to keep areas clean and free of pests, we need our employees and transit riders to work with us. That means not eating in the system and placing trash in the proper receptacles. We recently created a deep-cleaning initiative in our transit system. This includes a 9-person crew that deep cleans our Metro Subway stations. Each station is deep cleaned at least every two weeks. Deep cleaning includes in-depth scrubbing of floors, cleaning station granite and entrance ways, cleaning windows, escalators, platforms, common areas and employee works areas and removing trash in the track area. We also have crews that do daily routine cleaning such as sweeping and mopping floors, removing trash, picking up litter and removing vermin that may be found as a result of our extermination efforts. We are committed to a healthy, safe environment for our staff and customers. Download the ABCZ News app for the iPhone Kindle and Android Fox 45 also will cover the story this evening. To view the video with this story, click: Transit union says more work needed to ?x Baltimore's Metro safety issues Andrew DunnThe Baltimore Sun Baltimore transit union called for more repairs on subway system Thursday and released photos showing serious 4 The local transit union on Thursday said the plans to ?x the Baltimore Metro subway fall short of addressing the major safety and health issues that put riders and workers at risk. David McClure, president of Baltimore Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300, said the Maryland Transit Administration has neglected the main issues his workers have raised, despite this week's announcement of a 23-day partial shutdown for critical maintenance that will cost $16 million. "This is not only about the union, it's about the riding public as well," McClure said. "We have one objective here and that's to provide a safe and ef?cient service to the riding public, which at this point, I can't say that we're actually doing that." In a statement, MTA of?cials said safety is their No. 1 priority. Nearly $670 million was spent in the past year on planned safety upgrades, according to the agency. $600 million of that was spent on 90 new rail cars and a new signaling system. "We take every step to ensure our customers and employees are safe on our system," an MTA statement said. McClure called the potential for smoke or a ?re breaking out "very likely" if the ?re and electrical hazards are not addressed. When asked about the idea of an emergency subway shutdown, McClure said that is the type of action he would seek. "That's what needs to happen," McClure said at a news conference. The 2.700-member union released photos from a June 17 walk through of the Mondawmin station with MTA safety of?cials, showing unsafe and decrepit subway conditions. Brian Sherlock, a worker safety specialist for the national transit union, said he observed decades of neglect when he toured and documented the station. "It doesn't get much worse." Sherlock said. The photos Show high voltage rat zappers in public places where people could touch them, outdated and decomposing smoke detectors. exposed live wires, wet ?oors, a defective ventilation system, rusting pipes and substandard ?re extinguishers on the ?oor. The administration said in its statement that many of the issues described by the union were since corrected. MTA spokeswoman Sandy Arnette said the agency has not yet seen the pictures. Sherlock said the visit reminded him of the Washington metro system. A smoke-?lled train in Washington's metro killed one woman and left more than 80 passengers with respiratory issues in January 2015. He said a similar situation could happen in Baltimore. McClure said workers informed him of how bad the conditions were in the past couple months. feel guilty myself right now because I'm allowing my members to go into a deplorable situation that they should not have to be going into," McClure said. McClure said he questioned whether MTA of?cials were taking the situation seriously after months of rescheduled and canceled meetings. In a statement, the MTA said their leadership team "regularly" meets with employees in a timely manner to discuss their concerns. The union also met with state and city lawmakers recently to discuss the possibility of legislation that may help address the issues. The MTA's repair plan will begin July 22 and run through Aug. 14. It will shut down service between Mondawmin Mall and Milford Mill, providing free shuttle buses as a temporary substitute for riders. Union Calling For Emergency Shutdown Of Baltimore Metro Subway July 14, 2016 4:21 PM By Meghan McCorkell BALTIMORE (WJZ) The transit union is calling for an immediate emergency shutdown of the Baltimore Metro Subway, saying safety hazards threaten the lives of both riders and workers. MTA is already planning to shut down part of the system this month for track work, but union of?cials say that?s not enough. Faulty wiring, rotted pipes, a broken Sprinkler system, decaying smoke detectors and live wires hanging across emergency exits those are just some of the safety issues union leaders say were found inside one Baltimore Metro Subway station. ?This is not only about the union, it?s about the riding public a swell," said David McClure, Local 1300 president. Now they?re calling for emergency shutdowns to address safety concerns. ?PeOple?s lives are being put at risk across a wide array of hazards,? said Brian Sherlock, union safety specialist. In January of 2015, a smoke-?lled DC. Metro tunnel killed one woman and injured dozens more. Union safety specialist Brian Sherlock says the same thing could easily happen in Baltimore. "From the ?re suppression systems that are supposed to put out the ?ames to the ventilation that are supposed to make sure people can breathe. All of those systems are in disrepair,? said Sherlock. Transit officials will already shut down part of the system for track work. From July 22 to August 14, repairs will stop service between Mondawmin and Milford Mill. MTA officials say they?ve been planning the repairs and shutdown for the past two years. ?We want to avoid a situation where we have to be in an emergency situation,? said Suhair Al Khatib, Maryland Transit Administration. But union of?cials contend it already is urgent. ?Where?s the safety? Who?s safe down there? Because it certainly ain?t my members and it?s certainly not the riding public,? McClure said. Union of?cials met with local lawmakers Thursday morning to discuss their safety concerns. From: Erin Henson Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2016 10:36 PM To: Amelia Chasse Douglass Mayer -GOV- Cc: Jim Ports Sarah Hoyt Ryan Nawrocki Gary Witherspoon Subject: Could make news. Fwd: Reminder: MTA tour next week with Baltimore City Delegation members Doug, Amelia, This will probably make news. See below. Erin Henson Director of Public Affairs Maryland Department of Transportation 410-865-1025 (of?ce) 443-829-9386 (cell) Email: ehenson@mdot.maryland.gov MDOT website: Twitter: Begin forwarded message: From: Sarah Hoyt Date: November 15, 2016 at 6:37:16 PM EST To: Erin Henson Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Reminder: MTA tour next week with Baltimore City Delegation members Sent from my iPhone Sarah Hoyt State Legislative Of?cer Of?ce of Government Affairs Maryland Department of TransportationI Hanover, MD 21076 p: 410 865-1024 0:443 603-2344I e: shovt@mdot.state.md.us Begin forwarded message: Kelly Bell From: Jim Ports Sent: Thursday, September 01, 2016 11:25 AM To: Paul Comfort Cc: James Knighton Subject: FW: Follow Up Letter to the 550 From Cummings Attachments: 4461-Sharp Color Copier Paul: FYI Jim Ports, CCTM, csso Deputy Secretary for Operations 1 Maryland Department of Transportation CHANGING 7201 Corporate Center Drive Maryland Hanover, MD 21076 r/x Brim 410-865-1002 (direct) 410-865-1340 (fax) 410-562-0086 (cell) iports@mdot.state.md.us Maryland of Transportation he \laryl?alhd Dr'erqu?ul ni"l'mmpomtinn a cummur lldV'L?n lender that its safe. mulli?m m. and cxceptibiml solutions in Ude muu?cl gut? eunmn?rs lu lifc?s 's From: James Knighton Sent: Thursday, September 01, 2016 11:00 AM To: Deborah Haynie; Paul Comfort; Sean Adgerson (MTA) Cc: Bud Frank; Sarah Hoyt; Larry White; John Trueschler; Catherine Kahl; Jim Ports Subject: RE: Follow Up Letter to the 550 From Cummings Thanks, Deb. It seems to me that the Congressman is asking for different types of information from MTA and from 880. My advice at this point is that we schedule a call with staff from MTA and from TSO as early as possible next week to discuss how we want to respond and how best to handle the request for the brie?ng. I have copied Paul Comfort, Sean Adgerson, Fletcher Hamilton, and Phil Thomas from MTA on this reply because the September 16 timeframe for a response is relatively tight. They would be the appropriate principals to be involved in the discussion. I'd like to ask your assistance in setting up the call for next week as I am on leave today and tomorrow and will be traveling out of state later today. Jim Knighton MTA Chief of Staff \Ia Vamhmg Gala? 12- I at l' -l(n I, I It Simulpiimlc -- Original message From: Deborah Haynie Date:09/01/2016 10:49 AM To: James Knighton Cc: Bud Frank ,Sarah Hoyt ,Larry White ,John Trueschler ,Catherine Kahl Subject: FW: Letter for the 880 Hi Jim, Please see the attached letter from Congressman Cummings as a follow-up to his initial inquiry re: Metro Safety. A hard copy is NOT on its way. Please advise on how this should be handled. Thanks! Deb Deborah J. Haynie, Federal Legislative Officer, MDOT, 410?865-1096 443-481-7335 (M) From: Lessley, Lucinda Sent: Thursday, September 01, 2016 9:50 AM To: Deborah Haynie Subject: Letter for the 880 Hi Deb - please ?nd a new letter ??om Rep. Cummings attached. Thanks, Lucinda ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS 7m DISTRICT MARYLAND RANKING MEMBER. COMMITTEE ON OVERSIGHT AND GOVERNMENT REFORM RANKING MEMBER, SELECT COMMITTEE ON BENGHAZI COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE Suacomumee ON COAST Guano AND MARITIME TnAnsr-onmnon on HAILHOADS, PIPELINES, AND HAZARDOUS MATERIAI 5 Mr. Larry White Program Manager at the ?dtlniteh ?tates Tarmac at Representatives Washington, Eat 20515 September I, 2016 2230 RAYBURN HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20515-2007 12021 225?4741 FAX: (202) 225?3178 DISTRICT OFFICES. IDID PARK AVENUE SUITE 105 BALTIMORE, MD 21201-5037 14101 685-9199 FAX: I410) 685-9399 754 FREDERICK ROAD CATONSVILLE. MD 21228-4504 (410171943777 FAX: i410) 455-0110 8267 MAIN STREET ROOM 102 ELLICOTT CITY. MD 21043-9903 (4101465 3259 FAX: (410) 455-8740 wmv.cummings.house.gov Rail Safety and Security State Safety Oversight (880) Of?ce of Homeland Security, Management Rail Safety MDOT Headquarters Building 7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover, MD 21706 Dear Mr. White: On August 2, 2016, I wrote a letter requesting that the Maryland Department of Transportation?s (MDOT) State Safety Oversight (SSO) entity provide a list of all safety de?ciencies it has identi?ed at stations on the Maryland Transit Administration?s (MTA) Metro system, as well as copies of any safety advisories issued to MTA and any corrective actions ordered by the 880 in each of the last 5 years. In a letter dated August 23, 2016, and sent by the Administrator of the MTA, I received an update on projects implemented by the MTA to correct safety hazards at the Mondawmin Metro station, including a checklist of ?Mondawmin Walk Through 2016 Action Items.? While I appreciate receiving this information on the impmtant investments the MTA is making to correct safety de?ciencies at Mondawmin, this information is not fully responsive to the data requests I made of the 830. The data requests I made were intended to enable me to understand the 880?s ?ndings if any identifying safety de?ciencies along the entire MTA Metro system, including operational safety de?ciencies as well as structural de?ciencies and safety hazards. I write today to renew my original data requests and would like to receive this information by September 16, 2016. I also request that I receive a brie?ng by October 7, 2016, regarding the 380?s ?ndings, as well as its operations and resources. I would also appreciate hearing about any planned changes to the 880?s operating structure to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Final Rule issued by the Federal Transit Administration implementing the provisions of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 215' CentUIy Act requiring that an 830 be ??nancially and legally independent from any public transportation entity that the State safety oversight agency oversees? (49 U.S.C. 5329(e)(4)). Please contact Lucinda Lessley on my staff at (202) 225-4290 to schedule this brie?ng. Sincerely, Ijah ings Membe ress PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER Matt NemEhos . Jim P'orts Monday, July 25, 2016 1:22 PM Pete Rahn FW: PowerPoint From: Sent: To: Subject: . Pete: Se highlighted area below. From: Paul Comfort Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 11:55 AM To: Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: PowerPoint - FYI Paul Comfort MTA Administrator 6 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21202 Phone 410-767?3943 Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Suhair AlKhatib Date: July 25,2016 at 10:35:19 AM EDT To: Paul Comfort Vernon Hartsock Subject: RE: PowerPoint Current and Train Initial 'Prop?-salr?viewg BAFO period 1/ 116/2016 . - BPW- 414/12 11.210 177*- NTP W?wm Period) and NTP date estimated (BPW schedule not set through this period) Suhair Al Khatib Deputy Administrator Chief Planning, Program and Engineering Of?cer Maryland Transit Administration Planning, Program, Engineering, IT, MARC and CB 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 Of?ce: 410-767-3787 Fax: 410-333~0489 SAlKhatib@mta.marvlandgov Providing safe, ef?cient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. From: Paul Comfort Sent: Monday, July 25, 2016 9:54 AM To: Suhair AlKhatib; Vernon Hartsock Subject: PowerPoint The PowerPoint is very helpful on the metro train car replacement project. However i need some additional info: What is the current project timeline - such as due date for bids, project evaluation period, planned award date, when will new cars start arriving I need this info by 11:15 am emailed to me. Paul Comfort MTA AdministratOr 6 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21202 Phone 410-767-3943 Sent from my iPhone Kelly Bell From: Jim Ports Sent: Friday, July 15, 2016 7:21 AM To: Erin Henson;Craig Williams -GOV?;Jeannie Riccio McGrath - Clark - DeLeaver-Churchill ~GOV?;Hannah Marr Hall -GOV-;Corbett Webb Rahn;R. Earl Lewis;Geoffrey Hengerer -GOV-;Kevin Reigrut;Charles Glass;Heather Murphy;Deborah Haynie;Sarah Hoyt;Jane Williams;John Trueschler;Teri Moss;Gary Witherspoon Cc: Paul Comfort;Ryan Nawrocki;Sandy Arnette;Pau| Shepard;James Knighton Subject: RE: Transit union media coverage tonight Re: HEADS UP - Media - Tonight - Union Claims MTA Metro Subway Is Unsafe I guess he didn?t notice the deplorable conditions in the previous Administration. After ?decades of neglect.? Jim Ports, CCTM, csso Deputy Secretary for Operations 1 Maryland Department of Transportation CHANGING 7201 Corporate Center Drive Maryland Hanover, MD 21076 fort/x Bemr 410-865?1002 (direct) 410-865-1340 (fax) 410-562-0086 (cell) inorts@mdot.state.md.us m? Maryland Department of Transportation l'lu- \lar} land Department nf ['rsimpurumn driven leulcr ilm rs safe. sustainable. mulliguu. and solutions in "I'de in unm ct our Court-morn It: lifo'a umnirlumlk'? From: Erin Henson Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2016 8:07 PM To: Craig Williams Jeannie Riccio Roy McGrath Matt Clark -GOV- douglass.mayer@maryland.gov; Shareese DeLeaver?Churchill Hannah Marr Kata Hall Corbett Webb Pete Rahn; Jim Ports; R. Earl Lewis; Geoffrey Hengerer Kevin Reigrut; Charles Glass; Heather Murphy; Deborah Haynie; Sarah Hoyt; Jane Williams; John Trueschler; Teri Moss; Gary Witherspoon Cc: Paul Comfort; Ryan Nawrocki; Sandy Arnette; Paul Shepard; James Knighton Subject: Transit union media coverage tonight Re: HEADS UP - Media - Tonight - Union Claims MTA Metro Subway Is Unsafe 1 All, See below media coverage of transit union and safety concerns. Erin Henson Director of Public Affairs Maryland Department of Transportation 410-865-1025 (office) 443-829-9386 (cell) Email: ehenson@mdot.marvland.gov MDOT website: Twitter: Fox 45 also will cover the story this evening. To view the video with this story, click: Transit union says more work needed to fix Baltimore's Metro safety issues Andrew DunnThe Baltimore Sun Baltimore transit union called for more repairs on subway system Thursday and released photos showing serious The local transit union on Thursday said the plans to fix the Baltimore Metro subway fall short of addressing the major safety and health issues that put riders and workers at risk. David McClure, president of Baltimore Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300, said the Maryland Transit Administration has neglected the main issues his workers have raised, despite this week's announcement of a 23-day partial shutdown for critical maintenance that will cost $16 million. "This is not only about the union, it's about the riding public as well," McClure said. "We have one objective here and that's to provide a safe and efficient service to the riding public, which at this point, I can't say that we're actually doing that." In a statement, MTA officials said safety is their No. 1 priority. Nearly $670 million was spent in the past year on planned safety upgrades, according to the agency. $600 million of that was spent on 90 new rail cars and a new signaling system. "We take every step to ensure our customers and employees are safe on our system," an MTA statement said. McClure called the potential for smoke or a fire breaking out "very likely" if the fire and electrical hazards are not addressed. When asked about the idea of an emergency subway shutdown, McClure said that is the type of action he would seek. "That's what needs to happen," McClure said at a news conference. The 2,700-member union released photos from a June 17 walk through of the Mondawmin station with MTA safety officials, showing unsafe and decrepit subway conditions. Brian Sherlock, a worker safety specialist for the national transit union, said he observed decades of neglect when he toured and documented the station. "It doesn't get much worse," Sherlock said. The photos show high voltage rat zappers in public places where people could touch them, outdated and decomposing smoke detectors, exposed live wires, wet floors, a defective ventilation system, rusting pipes and substandard fire extinguishers on the floor. The administration said in its statement that many of the issues described by the union were since corrected. MTA spokeswoman Sandy Arnette said the agency has not yet seen the pictures. Sherlock said the visit reminded him of the Washington metro system. A smoke-filled train in Washington's metro killed one woman and left more than 80 passengers with respiratory issues in January 2015. He said a similar situation could happen in Baltimore. McClure said workers informed him of how bad the conditions were in the past couple months. feel guilty myself right now because I'm allowing my members to go into a deplorable situation that they should not have to be going into," McClure said. McClure said he questioned whether MTA officials were taking the situation seriously after months of rescheduled and canceled meetings. In a statement, the MTA said their leadership team "regularly" meets with employees in a timely manner to discuss their concerns. The union also met with state and city lawmakers recently to discuss the possibility of legislation that may help address the issues. The MTA's repair plan will begin July 22 and run through Aug. 14. It will shut down service between Mondawmin Mall and Milford Mill, providing free shuttle buses as a temporary substitute for riders. Union Calling For Emergency Shutdown Of Baltimore Metro Subway July 14, 2016 4:21 PM By Meghan McCorkell BALTIMORE (WJZ) The transit union is calling for an immediate emergency shutdown of the Baltimore Metro Subway, saying safety hazards threaten the lives of both riders and workers. MTA is already planning to shut down part of the system this month for track work, but union officials say that?s not enough. Faulty wiring, rotted pipes, a broken sprinkler system, decaying smoke detectors and live wires hanging across emergency exits those are just some of the safety issues union leaders say were found inside one Baltimore Metro Subway station. "This is not only about the union, it?s about the riding public a swell,? said David McClure, Local 1300 president. Now they're calling for emergency shutdowns to address safety concerns. 3 "People?s lives are being put at risk across a wide array of hazards,? said Brian Sherlock, union safety specialist. In January of 2015, a smoke-filled DC. Metro tunnel killed one woman and injured dozens more. Union safety specialist Brian Sherlock says the same thing could easily happen in Baltimore. "From the fire suppression systems that are supposed to put out the flames to the ventilation that are supposed to make sure pe0ple can breathe. All of those systems are in disrepair," said Sherlock. Transit officials will already shut down part of the system for track work. From July 22 to August 14, repairs will stop service between Mondawmin and Milford Mill. MTA officials say they?ve been planning the repairs and shutdown for the past two years. "We want to avoid a situation where we have to be in an emergency situation," said Suhair AI Khatib, Maryland Transit Administration. But union officials contend it already is urgent. "Where?s the safety? Who?s safe down there? Because it certainly ain?t my members and it?s certainly not the riding public,? McClure said. Union officials met with local lawmakers Thursday morning to discuss their safety concerns. On Jul 14, 2016, at 6:08 PM, Erin Henson wrote: All, See attached the press release from the ATU Local 1300 claiming that there are unsafe conditions on MTA Metro Subway. In addition to reminding media that we just announced the shutdown of Metro Subway because of our commitment to safety and addressing know issues, MTA provided the additional attached response to media outlining all the investments made to address the safety issues and our partnership with the union to address these issues. Erin Henson Director of Public Affairs Maryland Department of Transportation 410-865-1025 (office) 443-829?9386 (cell) Email: ehenson@mdot.maryland.gov MDOT website: Twitter: Response to Local 1300.docx> Metro Shutdown Release From: Erin Henson Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 5:36 PM To: Pete Rahn Cc: Ed McDonald; Jim Ports; R. Earl Lewis Subject: MEDIA CALL - WMATA Shutdown Pete, Patrick's Day release is out. Bob McCartney at the Post sent an email while I was on my drive back from Frederick. Just caught up on my email. He is asking for your thoughts. I will call you about this one. Erin From: McCartney, Robert Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 1:57 PM To: Erin Henson Cc: McCartney, Robert Subject: Can I get Rahn's thoughts on lessons from Metrorail shutdown? Erin - Can I get a summary or statement of Secretary Rahn?s thoughts about what lessons we should draw from Metrorail?s unprecedented shutdown? I'm doing a story for tomorrow?s paper that will include some discussion of what this means for governing agencies and funders, such as the state of Maryland. The new GM, Paul Wiedefeld, has said Metro stakeholders have long identified funding and governance as major problems. is there greater urgency than before about addressing them? Thanks and regards, Bob PS. I left you a voicemail message about this, too. Robert McCartney Senior Regional Correspondent Associate Editor The Washington Post 202-334-6849 (office phone) 202-302?5032 (mobile phone) Kelly Bell From: Sent: To: Subject: Thanks! Jim Ports Thursday, March 17, 2016 6:59 AM Paul Comfort RE: Metro Cable Testing Jim Ports, CCTM, csso Deputy'Secretary for Operations Maryland Department of Transportation CHANGING 7201 Corporate Center Drive Maryland Hanover, MD 21076 r12: Bc'm'r 410-865-1002 (direct) 410-865-1340 (fax) 410-562-0086 (cell) ip0rt5@mdot.state.md.us Maryland Department of Transportation l'lu- \laqhnd Dcputuuni nf Transpornunu is a cu Date: March 16, 2016 at 4:54:17 PM EDT To: Paul Comfort Subject: Metro Cable Testing When the previous ?re happened at WMATA, we looked into the differences between how MTA connects hi-voltage cables to the 3rd rail compared to WMATA. WMATA uses a pig tail termination that leaves exposed conductor touching the ground and it has been said that may be where arching has caused ?res in the past. The MTA bolts the cables to the 3rd rail and no exposed conductors touch the ground. Therefore MTA has far less risk from having a similar ?re. Yesterday's newspaper report referred to 3rd rail jumper cables which are short cables that join two sections of 3rd rail. MTA also has jumper cables but they are connected as described above. Currently, we have a contract to test Metro cables, it was given NTP in October and thus far they've been doing testing in the Wabash yard with next being in the tunnels. The contractor will be performing visual inspections of the jumper cables for MTA. Suhair AI Khatib Deputy Administrator Chief Planning, Program and Engineering Officer Maryland Transit Administration Planning, Program, Engineering, IT, MARC and CB 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21 202 Office: 41 0?767-3787 Fax: 410?333?0489 SAIKhatib@mta.marvland.aov Providing safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. Maryland Department 0? Transportation Kelly Bell From: - Jim Ports . Sent: Friday, February 09, 2018 9:02 AM To: Pete Rahn:Sean Powell Cc: Ed McDonald;Kevin Quinn I Subject: FW: Metro Rail Replacement Attachments: Metro Shutdown Memo Sean: K. Attached are the briefing materials for the Governor regarding the Metro shutdown. We anticipate updates after we complete-further inspections, which at this time, we anticipate will be. completed by this weekend. . Jim Ports, CCTM, CSSO Deputy Secretary for Operations . or Maryland Department of Transportation 7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover, MD 21076 -- 410?865-1002 (direct) . - 3 410-865-1340 (fax) CHANG l'N 410-562?0085 (cell) Marvland iDOrts@mdot.state.md.us ?r?dw 33m,- - STATEMENT ?The Maryland Department of Transportation is a customendriven tender that-dietivers safe, sustainable, intelligent, andexoop?onal transportation solutions to an: gemstomersfto: ?it-24?s - MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATEON. From: Kevin Quinn . Sent: Friday, February 09, 2018 8:49 AM To: Jim Ports Subject: RE: Metro Rail Replacement Jim- Please See attached. Engineering was not able to get me more detail regarding the 33,000 feet of linear rail, except that the issues exist on both NB and 58 tracks. I have incorporated your our earlier discussion into the first paragraph of Next Steps._ Note that the memo is from me to Pete. Not sure if this needsto be from Pete to the Governor. 1 Thanks. I _kq From: Jim Ports Sent: Friday, February 09, 2018 7:11 AM - To: Kevin Quinn - Subject: RE: Metro Rail Replacement Kevin: Not sure if you sent the briefing over to me or not but just wanted to let you know that I have not received it. Jim, Ports, CCTM, csso Deputy Secretary for Operations maviannpemmn on or Inmaeommon! Maryland Department of Transportation 7201 Corporate Center Drive Hanover, MD 21076 410?865-1002 (direct) I 410-865?1340 (fax) CHANG-NC 410-562?0086 .(cell) . Niafvland iports@mdot.state.md.us Egg? MISSION STATEMNT i ?Whe-Mir?m? Departmenmf Transportation is a 5 customer-worker: .iea?or intelligent?,- and. exceptional transport-ration order-w- connect on: customers-ltd Efois opgmt'unitioelTR-a-NSPo-Rmnon - _From:? Kevin Quinn Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2018 5:22 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: Fwd: Metro Rail Replacement Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: Larry Hogan Governor - Boyd K. Rutherford MARYLAND DEPARTMENT Lt? Governor OF TRANSPORTATION Pete K. Rahn Secretary MARYLAND TRANSIT Kevin B. Quinn, Jr. ADMINISTRATION Administrator 1 MEMORANDUM T0: SECRETARY PETE K. RAHN . FROM: . MDOT MTA ADMINISTRATOR KEVIN QUINN SUBJECT: MDOT MTA METRO SHUTDOWN DATE: FEBRUARY 9, 2018 RESPONSE REQUESTED BY: BACKGROUND In preparation for this summer?s Metro lO-weekend single-tracking work between West Cold Spring and Owings Mills on the Baltimore Metro Subway system, the Maryland Department of TraESportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) commissioned a consultant, conduct ?eld inspections of the Metro rails and prepare a package of rail replacements to be implemented under the Light Rail/Metro Ancillary contract. On February 8, 2018., MDOT MTA received the preliminary results of the ?eld inspections and learned that HNTB is recommending immediate replacement of 33,000 linear feet of rail on both northbimnd and Southbound tracks in the elevated part of the system due to severely deteriorated rail. The deterioration in question exceeded the safety standards prescribed in MDOT Track Inspection Manual which is based upon industry best practices. Further ?eld inspections will be initiated tomorrow to inSpect rail in the tunnel part of the system. - MDOT MTA has initiated the procurement of a contract for emergency work on the Metro system. The work that must be completed before resuming service on the elevated portion of the Metro was already scheduled to take place in uly/August of 2018, but the deterioration was I signi?cantly more advanced than anticipated. MDOT MTA does not, under any circumstances, risk the safety of our riders or neighbors and has initiated a shutdown of the Metro system. SERVICE RECOMMENDATION AND IMPACT The entire Metro system (Owings Mills to Hopkins Hospital) will be shut down from Friday, February 9 through Sunday, February ll. There are approximately 34,000 average daily boardings throughout the system, or roughly 17,000, riders. MDOT MTA is investigating the possibilityof resuming service on the underground portions of the Metro (Mondawmin through Johns Hopkins Hospital) on Monday if possible. MDOT MTA has requested the contractor visually inspect the tracks today to assess the scope of work and determine the cost and time needed to complete the task. This inspection will conclude over the ?soint PouISIreet. Baltimore, 4I0.539.5000 I.866.RIDE.MTA TIY4IO.539.3497 mtomorylondgov Maryland weekend and provide information as to whether it is feasible to partially reopen the underground section of the system. CUSTOMER OUTREACH MDOT MTA has initiated extensive customer outreach immediately which will include alternate transportation options. The following actions have been taken: . A press release with information regarding the shutdown was sent out to all-maj or media outlets . 1' Webpage banner posted with links to alternate transportation options Social media updated, including Facebook and Twitter postings Customers have been alerted via email blast alerts Audio announcements are being made at all Metro and Light Rail Stations - MDOT MTA Administrator Kevin Quinn conducted over-the-phone interviews with WBAL, WJZ, FOX-45, and WMAR Attendants at each Metro station have been provided lea?ets to hand out to passengers indicating alternative travel options 0. Bus operators have been alerted and will instruct passengers boarding the vehicle and exiting at Metro stations of their closure I I Signs have been put up at each station indicating the closure of the system q. Call Center agents have been provided alternative travel information to assist customers; I the call center opened one hour earlier (5 am.) on February 9 and Will remain open I throughout the weekend - 0 Coordination with SHA to place variable message signs at each Metro Station and at strategic locations around the region 0 Coordination with Baltimore City Public Schools, who have distributed through their mass text message communication system i - MTA Police are assisting with the effort and monitoring station activity. Additional noti?catiOns that have been made include: . I Terry Garcia Crews, Regional Administrator for Federal Transit Administration a David McClure, President, ATU Local 1300 - - 0 Michelle Pourciau, Director of Baltimore City Department of TranSportation NEXT STEPS We have enlisted the help of an emergency contractor who is inspecting rail today and anticipate the contractor being able to start repair work within one to two weeks. We are waiting for the assessment of the tracks to determine when service will resume. - Once inspections are complete, MDOT MTA will have additional information to determine the . safety of a partial re-openingof the system. A press release will be issued on Sunday notifying riders of the status of the system. - Keli! Ben I From: Kevin Quinn Sent: Friday, February 16, 2013 1:04 PM To: Jim Ports Subject: FW: Metro Before and After Attachments: MetroBeforeAndAfter.pdf See attached. is'this ok? From: Kenneth Good Sent: Friday, February 16, 2018 1:01 PM To: Kevin Quinn Subject: Metro Before and After Kenneth Good Assistant to the Administrator Moryiand Transit Administration Office of the Administrator . 6 St. Pout Street, Room 2600,.Bciltimore, MD 21202 Office: 410?767-3945 Fax: 4i 0?333-3279 Mirgarmermua new-terms: or tameeoerman, MAHYLJAND marten The Moryiond Departrnent of Transportation is a customer?driven ieoo'er that delivers safe, sustainobte, and exceptionot transportation solutions in order to connect our customars to iife '3 opportunities. The Maryland Transit.AdministratiOn, providing safe, ef?cient and reiiobie transit across Maryland with wand-class customer service Kelly Bell I From: Kevin Quinn . Sent: Sunday, February 11, 2018 9:01 PM To: - Jim Ports;Pete Rahn Cc: James Gillece Subject: . RE: MDOT MTA Metro Subway - Shutdown Update Pete/iim? Some updates on the shutdown fo'r'use in your meetings tomorrow if you need it: Rail Repair - 0 MTA and WMATA forces are continuing to work throughout the night to replace rail in, the tunnel; WMATA assistance will complete tonight - 0 Work on elevated section still scheduled to begin tomorrow as contractor mobilizes I l'walked 2 miles of tunnel track this afternoon with MTA and WMATA staff; got a good, in?depth overview of some of the issues . - Bus Bridge .0 Bus Bridge signage has been completed at all Metro stations as of 745 PM - Thisevening we conducted meetings with bus bridge contractor and did a dry run of the Local and Express bus' I routes a Bus bridge-contractors have been given ?Local? and ?Express? signage for the front windshield oftheir buses in i conveyed our bus bridge turn-by-turn directions and requested the City to assist with dedicated lane enforcement in key areas . - Transit Ambassadors trained and ready to go in the morning - MTA Supervisors and MTA Police wilt also assist passengers and monitor the'bus bridge Media/Communications 0 Press release sent out today at 230 PM . I - Conducted TV interviews with WJZ, WBAL, Fox45, and WMAR between 4 and 5 PM in Also conducted newspaper interviews with AP and Baltimore Sun . 1 Posted advisories, sent egalerts to customers, recorded and deployed updated audio announcements at all Light Rail and Metro Stations - . I - . - Updates posts to Facebook, Twitter, and website Attendants at each Metro station have been prbvided leaflets to hand out to passengers indicating alternative travel options 0 Bus operators have been alerted to the bridge and will instruct passengers boarding the vehicle and exiting at Metro stations . - - - Call Center agents have been provided alternative travel information to assist customers; also, over the weekend ourcall center was open from 6 AM to 4 PM (it?s usually closed) -- Coordinated with SHA to place variable message signs at 7 Metro Stations Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks! _kq From: Jim Ports- Sent: Sunday, February 11, 20181137 AM . To: Kevin Quinn Pete Rahn Cc: James Gillece Subject: Re: MDOT MTAMetro Subway - Shutdown Update Thanks Kevin! I Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone Original message From: Kevin Quinn Date: 2/11/18 10:45 AM - To: Pete Rahn Jim Ports Cc: James Gillece . - Subject: MDOT MTA Metro Subway Shutdown Update Pete and Jim- I wanted to provide an update on where we are with the shutdown based on the latest information. Tunnel Work Status 0 Over the weekend we completed our inspectionof the tunnel tracks. That inspection identified about 6,000 . linear feet? of. rail that needed to be replaced I I - We have mobilized all MDOT MTA MOW forces to work on the tunnel and repair work began on Saturday morning. - WMATA is providing both equipment and manpower assistance (around 12 people) to speed up and assist with tunnel track replacement. Tunnel track work is currently estimated to be complete next Tuesday That "estimate will .be updated throughout the week. - Elevated Track Work Status . a Work on elevated section of track will begin on Monday. The contractor has been given a Letter of intent for replacement of 33,000linear feet of rail. - - - Work is expected to take 2 to 3 weeks. Bus Bridge a Last night at 6 PM, Letters of intent were'issued to 2 Bus Bridge contraCtors for ?Express? and "Local" services that will begin on Monday morning. 0 Cost of the bus bridgeis estimated at for 4 weeks. I . 0 We will closely modify hours, frequency, and length of the bus bridge based on ridership demands and as . . segments of the system come on-line that will likely reduce the cost. . Express Service: - . . 0 Will operate Monday through'Friday during peaklhours (Buses will run roughly every 20 minutes and stop at 6 of the. 14 stations I 0 Local Service: 0 Will operate 7 days/week from_5 AM to midnight Buses will run.roughly every 30 minutes and stop at all 14 stations 0 I Transit Ambassadors will be deployed at key stations, with a focus on the northern statiOns in the AM and a I focus on the southern stations in the PM 0 We are coordinating with Baltimore City DOT provide them with intersections where traffic enforcement officers can assist with enhanced enforcement of dedicated bus lanes and bus stop parking enforcement We are working with Erin one press release that we are finalizing to get out ASAP. 2 The team is having regular calls at 10 AM (Senior Management) "and 4 PM (Engineering and Track Maintenance - detailed discussion) each day. This Will continue throughout the shutdown. - Please let meknow if you have any questions. continue to keep you updated. Kevin B. Quinn, Jr. Administrator I Maryland Transit Administration Office of the Administrator - 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 2i202 Office: 4i 0-767~3943 Fax: 410?333?3279 kauinn@mta.mawlana.aov aspen-meet or: tagger: R'l?gtt'flmi. - MARYLAND TRANSIT The Maryland Department of Transportation is a customenariven leader that delivers safe, sustainable, intelligent, and exceptional transportation solutions ln order to connect our customers to life?s opportunities. The Maryland Transit Administration, providing safe, efficient and reliable transit across arytancl with world-Class customer service. DAVID President Business Agent S. CARTER Vice President BERTRAND Financial Secretary-Treasurer ROBIN RAY Recording Secretary ROBERT BURLEY Assistant B.A. Non OP EXECUTIVE BOARD GREGORY DIGGS Bush Division MICHAEL Metro Division S. BRYANT HOPE Bush Division ANTHONY K. JOHNSON Light Rail Shop LEROY K. CARPENTER Northwest Division FacilitieslMaintenance JEFFREY RICE Northwest Shop . 57/? 539W, 126 WEST 25TH STREET 0 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Affiliated with AF L-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243?5541 May 26, 2016 Paul Comfort Administrator Marydand Transit Adminstration a Saint Paul Street, 26th Floor Baltimore, MD 21202 Dear Mr. Paul Comfort: The Union has recently received information that Members are being intimidated and coerced by the MTA management staff into not reporting and ?ling health and safety violations. With this correspondence, the Union is addressing the posting of the OSHA report which is attached with this letter that should be disseminated amongst all of the divisions for both Operation and Non-Operation locations. Awareness is something that should he made apparent to all to ensure a safe work environment. Should there be any circumstances where an employee is being approached in a negative manner, they should be made fully aware of their rights. Furthermore, it is deeply concerning to the Union that safety issues exist within the following areas: Track issues Metro Rail Cracks in tracks Metro Signals Issues Light Rail MOW issues - Metro Failure to maintain required safety equipment (Le. mirrors, brakes, wiper blade replacement - Bus Maintenance Failure to maintain required safety equipment ?re extinguishers, exposed wiring, inoperable emergency devices, etc.) For several months, we have attempted to schedule meetings with your of?ce on important safety issues that directly affect our Members, the riding public and the public at large. No meetings have taken place as of today?s date of May 26, 2016. Far too often, these matters are only addressed after a major accident and/or the loss of life have occurred. Seeing that the Maryland Transit Administration stresses the importance of ?Safety First?, the Union would appreciate your prompt attention. ?ing}? M1 David Mc Clure President/Business Agent Amalgamated Transit Union - Local I300 Cc: Lawrence Hanley, ATU International President Paul Bowen, International Vice President Edward Watt, ATU International Rep Brian Williams, Department of Labor and Relation - MTA DAVID President Business Agent ALE Vice President S. BRYANT HOPE Financial Secretary-Treasmer OLIVIA WHETSTONE Recording Secretary ROBERT Assistant BA. Non OP BOARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Division VTVIAN GKOLI Northwest Division LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division LEROY K. CARPENTER Bush Division FacilitieslMaintenance JEFFREY RICE Northwest Shop JAMES CARTER No-rthwesl Shop ll 09? LOCAL 1?300 126 WEST 25TH STREET I BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AFL-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 July 13, 2016 Dear Administrator Comfort, I submit this letter to you to demonstrate the extent to which Amalgamated Transit Union - Local 1300 has attempted to engage you and your office in a results-driven discussion regarding the serious safety hazards plaguing the MTA Metro Subway system. These attempts have been met with limited interest where responses have been offered, they have been disappointing and primarily focused on shoring up the agency?s reputation among its workforce and ridership. Therefore, it is the conclusion of ATU Local 1300, its Officers and Membership that the only method to ensure funding and administrative attention are applied to averting life-threatening crises facing our rail system is to engage the riding public. To reiterate, the hazards reported ad nauseam by this union include, but are not limited to: faulty wiring and exposed conduits in work and public areas that can lead to electrocution, persistent rodent infestations, substandard and unsafe rodent abatement efforts, flooding of critical safety and operational equipment, and inoperable fire management systems. This list accounts for those issues discovered at just one station, Mondawmin. We believe such hazards put not only our members at risk, but our passengers as well. While we have been unable to inspect all stations within the system, we have reason to believe that this utter neglect is not isolated and that all stations should be assessed as thoroughly as possible. The following is a timeline of meetings, requests for meetings, and public actions taken to raise awareness on these safety issues since March of 2015: 0 March 5, 2015: The contract was discussed as well as the Rail System. 0 November 12, 2015: Local 1300 leadership sent a letter to your office, as being the Administrator, demanding a meeting to address the numerous safety issues that members have been reporting. The MTA declined to schedule a meeting to address the union?s concerns. I March 8, 2016: Local 1300 leadership and representatives met with MTA Director of Labor Relations, Brian Williams around health and safety concerns. 0 March 23, 2016: You, as being the Administrator and MDOT Deputy Secretary Jim Ports went to Mondawmin Station, where Local 1300 representatives confronted Comfort and his staff over the flooding and rat infestation issues. 0 March 29, 2016: Local 1300 leadership and representatives met with you directly around systemic safety issues. DAVID President Business Agent MICHAEL MRMILLAN Vice Presidmt S. BRYANT HOPE Financial Secretary-Twas OLIVIA WHETSTONE Recording Secretary ROBERT BURLEY Assistant BA. Non OP EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Division VIVIAN OKOLI Northwest Division LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division K. CARPENTER Bush Division Facilities/Mme JEFFREY RICE Northwest Shop JAMES CARTIER Northwest Shop LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET 0 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AF (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 - April 2016-May 2016: As a result of the March 29thmeeting between Local 1300 and yourself, the MTA in April erected a temporary, plastic relief shed for station operators while the MTA cleared booths of rodent?related refuse. In May, the MTA removed the shed. While addressing some of the consequences of rat infestation at one station, the MTA made no effort to address the causes. 0 June 2, 2016: ATU Local 1300 members leaflet passengers and hold a press conference to demonstrate that the serious rat infestation issue at Mondawmin persists. The MTA responds publicly, lobbing unfounded accusations at the union and its officers. 0 June 2, 2016: ATU Local 1300 meets with Mr. Williams and MTA Chief Safety Officer Bernadette Bridges on the phone again to discuss numerous safety issues, this time providing detailed visual evidence. ATU Local 1300 demanded a joint of Mondawmin station with MTA management, the establishment of a joint union-management safety subcommittee, the right to bring non?MTA health and safety officers on MTA properties, and access to MTA non-work areas for the purpose of health and safety surveys, education, and interviews. To date, no response to these demands has been received. The was cancelled through the Department of Labor Relations. 0 June 16, 2016: ATU Local 1300 and the MTA schedule a of Mondawmin Station. The MTA cancels last minute. The union demands a the following day. 0 June 17, 2016: ATU Local 1300 and the MTA do a of Mondawmin Station. In this further safety issues are uncovered. To date, none of have been addressed. Local 1300 has done more than its due diligence over the past seven months to inform the MTA of these issues and has been met with callous disregard for the responsibilities of MTA management to ensure safe working conditions and a safe system for riders. At best, the current approach being pursued is a result of complacency. At worse, it seems aimed at guiding the system into an unnecessary state of crisis that could be leveraged to justify political objectives like privatization or further divestment from Baltimore City?s transportation system. DAVID President Business Agent MICHAEL MCMILLAN Vice President S. IRYANT nor]: Financial Sequin-Treasurer OLIVIA WBETSTONE Recmding Secretary ROBERT IURLEY Assth BA. Non OP EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMIERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Dm' VIVIAN OKDLI Division LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division LEROY K. CARPENTER Bush Division FaciliticsfMainlcme JEFFREY RICE Northwest Shop JAMES CARTER Nor?twast SW WW WW LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET - BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AF L-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 The public workers we represent stand ready, willing and able to work with the MTA to bring our system to the state of good repair that Baltimoreans and all Marylanders deserve. We once again urge you, Secretary Rahn, and Governor Hogan to prioritize investment in the operations and maintenance of existing MTA services and publicly- accountable and ?operated expansion ofour bus and rail systems. Sincerely, David Mc Clure President/Business Agent ATU Local 1300 Maryland MARYLAND TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Larry Hogan. Governor 0 Boyd K. Rutherford, Lt. Governor Pete K. Rahn. Secretary 0 Paul Comfort, Administrator July 14, 2016 David McClure President and Business Agent Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300 126 West 25th Street Baltimore, MD 21218 Dear Mr. McClure: Thank you for your letter regarding safety and health issues at the Mondawmin Metro Station. Safety is our No. 1 priority at MTA and we take every step to ensure our customers and employees are safe on our system. On June 17, 2016, members of MTA management, along with you and other union representatives, visited the Mondawmin Metro Station. As a result, the MTA further investigated your concerns and took extensive measures to correct them in a timely manner. For example, the Metro ?re sprinkler system has been correctly pressurized, exposed wiring in the station booth ?xed, and all obstacles to emergency exits removed. This is in addition to the repair of over 30,000 feet of de?cient track on our Metro system within the past year. I can assure you that we will take any corrected actions needed to make sure our services are free from safety and health issues to assure our employees and customers a safe and healthy environment. Again, let me take this opportunity to thank you for bringing this to my attention and we look forward to working with you as we seek to move the MTA forward with its mission to provide safe, reliable, and ef?cient transit service throughout Maryland. leadership team is committed to meet with union and non- union employees to discuss and address common concerns and issues to both parties. Sincerely, Paul Comfort cc: John Duncan, Senior Deputy Administrator Brian K. Williams, Director, Labor and Employee Relations 6 St. Paul Street Baltimore, Maryland 21202-1614 0 TTY 410-539-3497 0 Toll Free 1-866-743?3682 Amalgamated Transit Union |0000 New Hampshire Avenue. Silver Spring, MD 209034706 431-7l00 May 9, 2017 Paul Comfort, Esq. Administrator E0 Maryland Transit Administration 6 St. Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21202-1614 Dear Administrator Comfort: During the joint ATU-MTA inspection of the Mondawmin Station last summer, we discussed possible mitigation of the many safety problems that we all witnessed and that I have documented. During that conversation, you informed us that a comprehensive engineering analysis of the station was being performed by an outside consultant. Also, that this report was being done at a substantial cost and would be available to be shared by the end of 201 6. Pointedly, you asked my assistance in evaluating the report, to which I agreed. Obviously, such a report bears directly on our member?s safety and that of the public, our riders. In our review of my records, as of this date, we have not seen the report. We write to request that you furnish the full system Inspection report which you promised to ATU. Please advise us as to your response as soon as possible. Sincerely, aha/4. Brian Sherlock Safety Specialist C: Lawrence Hanley, International President, ATU David McClure. President, ATU Local 1300 Amhai?d mm Federation of Labor and Congress or fndusrnal Organizarrans and Canadian Labour Congress PRINTED ON UNION PAPEFI I.- DAVID President a; Business Agent MICHAEL Vice President S. BRYANT HOPE Financial Smuy?Tmasmer OLIVIA Secretary ROBERT BURLEY Assistant BA. Non 0? EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Division VIVIAN OKOLI Northwest Dwulon LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division LEROY K. CARPENTER Bush Diviswn Facilities/'Maintemncl JEFFREY RICE Northwest Shop- JAMES CARTER Northwest Shop LC?m/yawza/ecf WM LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET 0 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Affiliated with AF (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 July 13, 2016 Dear Administrator Comfort, I submit this letter to you to demonstrate the extent to which Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1300 has attempted to engage you and your of?ce in a results-driven discussion regarding the serious safety hazards plaguing the MTA Metro Subway system. These attempts have been met with limited interest where responses have been offered, they have been disappointing and primarily focused on shoring up the agency's reputation among its workforce and ridership. Therefore, it is the conclusion of ATU Local 1300, its Officers and Membership that the only method to ensure funding and administrative attention are applied to averting life-threatening crises facing our rail system is to engage the riding public. To reiterate, the hazards reported ad nauseam by this union include, but are not limited to: faulty wiring and exposed conduits in Work and public areas that can lead to electrocution, persistent rodent infestations, substandard and unsafe rodent abatement efforts, flooding of critical safety and operational equipment, and inoperable ?re management systems. This list accounts for those issues discovered at just one station, Mondawmin. We believe such hazards put not only our members at risk, but our passengers as well. While we have been unable to inspect all stations within the system, we have reason to believe that this utter neglect is not isolated and that all stations should be assessed as thoroughly as possible. The following is a timeline of meetings, requests for meetings, and public actions taken to raise awareness on these safety issues since March of 2015: 0 March 5, 2015: The contract was discussed as well as the Rail System. Ir November 12, 2015: Local 1300 leadership sent a letter to your office, as being the Administrator, demanding a meeting to address the numerous safety issues that members have been reporting. The MTA declined to schedule a meeting to address the union ?5 concerns. 0 March 8, 2016: Local 1300 leadership and representatives met with MTA Director of Labor Relations, Brian Williams around health and safety concerns. 0 March 23, 2016: You, as being the Administrator and MDOT Deputy Secretary Jim Ports went to Mondawmin Station, where Local 1300 representatives confronted Comfort and his staff over the flooding and rat infestation issues. 0 March 29, 2016: Local 1300 leadership and representatives met with you directly around systemic safety issues. DAVID Presrdent Business Agent MICHAEL Vice President S. BRYANT HOPE Emanuel Secretary-Treasurer OLIVIA WHETSTONE Recording Secretary ROBERT BURLEY BA. Non 0P EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Division VIVIAN OKOLI Northwest Dmsion LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division LEROY K. CARPENTER Bush Division Facihtieeraintenance JEFFREY RICE Shop JAMES CARTER Northwest Shop gin-IE? :3 cg?ma/gama/?d WW LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AFL-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 0 April 2016-May 2016: As a result ofthe March 29"?meeting between Local 1300 and yourself, the MTA in April erected a temporary, plastic relief shed for station operators while the MTA cleared booths of rodent-related refuse. In May, the MTA removed the shed. While addressing some of the consequences of rat infestation at one station, the MTA made no effort to address the causes. it June 2, 2016: ATU Local 1300 members leaflet passengers and hold a press conference to demonstrate that the serious rat infestation issue at Mondawmin persists. The MTA responds publicly, lobbing unfounded accusations at the union and its officers. 0 June 2, 2016: ATU Local 1300 meets with Mr. Williams and MTA Chief Safety Officer Bernadette Bridges on the phone again to discuss numerous safety issues, this time providing detailed visual evidence. ATU Local 1300 demanded a joint of Mondawmin station with MTA management, the establishment of a joint union-management safety subcommittee, the right to bring non-MTA health and safety officers on MTA properties, and access to MTA non-work areas for the purpose of health and safety surveys, education, and interviews. To date, no response to these demands has been received. The was cancelled through the Department of Labor Relations. 0 June 16, 2016: ATU Local 1300 and the MTA schedule a of Mondawmin Station. The MTA cancels last minute. The union demands a the following day. in June 2016: ATU Local 1300 and the MTA do a of Mondawmin Station. In this further safety issues are uncovered. To date, none of have been addressed. Local it 1300 has done more than its due diligence over the past seven months to inform the MTA ofthese issues and has been met with callous disregard for the responsibilities of MTA management to ensure safe working conditions and a safe system for riders. At best, the current approach being pursued is a result of complacency. At worse, it seems aimed at guiding the system into an unnecessary state of crisis that could be leveraged to justify political objectives like privatization or further divestment from Baltimore City?s transportation system. DAVID President Bunnie? Agent MICHAEL Vice President S. BRYANT HOPE Financial Sweaty-want OLIVIAWIIETSTONE Recording Sammy ROBERT BURLEY Alum BA. Non 0P EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Dmaion VIVIAN OKOLI Northwest Division LOUIS DURANT Kirk Division K. CARPENTER Bush Division FacihhuMuiumnoc RICE thwest Shop JAMES CARTER Northwest Shop 7W 9426043 LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET I BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Affiliated with (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 The public workers we represent stand ready, willing and able to work with the MTA to bring our system to the state of good repair that Baltimoreans and all Marylanders deserve. We once again urge you, Secretary Rahn, and Governor Hogan to prioritize investment in the operations and maintenance of existing MTA services and publicly- accountable and -operated expansion of our bus and rail systems. Sincerely, gfh?w?JW/fZ/?c? David MC Clure President/ Business Agent ATU - Local 1300 DAVID haiku A: Bruins Agent summit Wane-Halt s. IRYANT HOPE Fwd-I Secretary-Tm mum AMI 01' MERGERS GREGORY 01005 Bush Divi?m VIVIAN OKOLI Ninth? Divil'au LOUIS DURANT LEROY CARPENTER Division Bull Fu?i?ull?aialcnm JEFFREYRICE JAMES CARTER Nominal Shop Jim: gdWQ?u'on MAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET 0 BALTNORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AFL-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410) 243-5541 Ma} 26. 2016 Paul Comfort Administrator Mainland Transit Adminstration (1 Saint Paul Street. 26?? item Baltimore. MD 11202 Dear Mr. Paul Comfort: The l?nion has recentl} receit ed in Formation that Members are being intimidated and coerced h} the MTA management stall'inlo not reporting and ?ling health and safer} tiolations. With this correspondence. the ttion is addressing the posting ol?the 031 report which is attached tsith this letter tltal should be disseminated amongst all of the di\ isions for both llperation and Mitt-Operation locations. Au. rooms: is something that should he made apparent to all to ensure i1 safe ttorl-t em ironment. Should there be an) circumstances 'l'l here an entPlo} ee is being approached itt a manner. the}. should he made full} or their rights. l'urtltennore. it isdeepl) coneeming to the l'nitm that safety issues esist \tilth the t'ollmting ?11115: I melt issues Metre Rail 2 Cracks in tracks Metro 3. Signals Issues ight Ilail -I MOW issues - Metro 5 Failure to maintain required safety equipment (Le. mirrors. brakes. ttiper hlnde replacement - Bus Maintenance 6 Failure to maintain required sal?et} equipment tie. lire estinguisiters. exposed ttiring. inoperable emergency detiees. etc.) I or seterat months. oe hate attempted to schedule meetings ith war of lice on important safety issues that directl} atl?ect our Members. the riding public and the public at large. No meetings hate talten place as ol'todagt's date of Ma} 26. 2016. for too often. these matters are onl} addressed after a major accident and or the loss ot?iil'e hat occurred. Seeing that the Maryland lransit Administration stresses the importance l-irst?. the [him ould appreciate _\our prompt attention. strata. .. - [5717?; 1 an id McClure President Business Age nt .-\maigarrtated - Local It 13th Ce: 1 1131116} . international President Paul Boa en. lntemational Vice President Eduard Vtutt. MU International Rep Brian Williams Department of Labor and Relation - IA DANID Pmident II. Eminent Agent MICHAEL Vice Milan! 5. BRYANT HOPE Fraulein Secretary-Tumou- DIJWA ?nding my ROBERT BURLEY Assistant BA. Nm OP EXECUTIVE WARD MEMBERS GREGORY DIGGS Bush Division VIVIAN OKOLI Northwest Divirion LOUIS DURANT Kiri Division LEROY K. CARPEBTER Built Division Facilitin-Tvlluum JEFFREY RICE Mm Slop JAMES CARTER Northwelt Shop Si ere-1y, Lyma?wmmka/ @axMQ?um LOCAL 1300 126 WEST 25TH STREET 0 BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21218 Af?liated with AFL-CIO-CLC (410) 889-3566-67 Fax: (410)243~5541 November 12, 2015 Paul Comfort Administrator Maryland Transit Admiusu-ation 5 Saint Paul Street, 25th Floor Baltimore, MD 21202 Dear Mr. Paul Comfort: The Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 1300, requests a meeting on safety concerns vital to both our members and the riding public. For several months, we have attempted to schedule meetings with your of?ce on these important safety issues, that directly affect our members, the riding public and the public at large and none have taken place. Far too often, these matters are addressed only after a major accident and the loss of life. The issues include, but are not limited to rail safety, mold exposure at facilities, blind spots on buses and bathroom access for employees. Since we all agree that safety is job one, we appreciate your prompt attention to scheduling the first of these meetings. 4" . a Mo Clare President/Business Agent Amalgamated Transit Union - Local 1300 Cc: Lawrence Henley, ATU International President Edward Watt, ATU International Rep