KEOLIS DELIVERS RECORD ON-TIME PERFORMANCE FOR MBTA COMMUTER RAIL PASSENGERS DURING SEPTEMBER

Weekday unadjusted OTP averages 91.9 percent, highest since 2006

BOSTON, MA – October 8, 2015 – Keolis Commuter Services, which operates the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail system, ended September with an unadjusted on-time weekday performance rate of 91.9 percent, the best September performance since 2006.

When the figures are adjusted to take into account delays caused by issues beyond the company’s control, as specified in Keolis’ contract with the MBTA, OTP was at 94 percent for September, exceeding the targets set in the Service Improvement Plan announced in August.

“While we’re pleased with September’s performance, we remain focused on doing what’s necessary to deliver strong results like these for the people of this community each and every month,” said Keolis General Manager Gerald C. Francis.

“As another winter approaches, the on-time performance rates are certainly trending in the right direction,” said MBTA General Manager Frank DePaola.  “We’ll continue to work very closely with our Commuter Rail partners to provide our tens of thousands of daily Commuter Rail customers with the level of service they expect and deserve.”

As part of a Service Improvement Plan approved by the MBTA this summer, Keolis pledged that trains would be on-time an average of 92 percent throughout the year, with no single month falling under 90 percent. To support that target, Keolis is increasing the number of conductors on trains, with a special focus on collecting fares, re-engineering the way locomotives and coaches are cleaned and maintained, and revamping the passenger information system.

Keolis officials advised passengers that they could experience delays this fall as falling leaves on tracks create “slippery rail” conditions that sometimes require trains to operate at lower speeds to ensure safety.

“Keolis is working in close partnership with the MBTA in preparation for these and other weather-related challenges so our passengers can feel confident in the service we provide – not just this fall, but throughout the year,” Francis said.