Danbury branch commuters on Metro North will be able to have their tickets cross-honored on the Harlem line as the railroad works to fix the signal system. The system's manufacturers are working to fix the problem which is causing crossing gates to operate incorrectly and delay trains.
This applies to any ticket – be it peak or off-peak, a monthly, weekly, 10-trip or one-way/round-trip.
MTA Spokesman Aaron Donovan says they recognize that recurring delays are causing difficulties for commuters' daily schedules.
The problem is with the computerized train detection system in the tracks at crossings. The system is designed to be "fail-safe". Trains are operating with a “Stop-and-Warn” requirement before entering the affected crossing and to determine if the crossing protection is activated. That requires the train to come to a complete stop, leading to major delays.
As for people with parking permits at stations along the Danbury branch, Metro North officials say parking lots on the Harlem Line are controlled by a variety of entities and for the most part already filled to capacity. Commuters are being encouraged to consider seeking a ride from a family member, friend or neighbor to the station, or utilize one of three HART shuttles to the Harlem Line.
The Danbury shuttle runs from Park & Rides on Federal Road, at Exit 2 of I-84 and White Turkey Road and ends at the Brewster station. The Ridgefield shuttle runs from Jesse Lee Church, South Salem and Cross River to the Katonah station. The New Fairfield shuttle to the Southeast station runs from Company A Fire House, the Ball Pond Fire House and Temple Beth Elohim in Brewster.
