Outage Delays Amtrak, Commuter Trains

A two-hour power outage in parts of Union Station in Northeast Washington delayed departing Amtrak and commuter trains late yesterday afternoon and early evening, authorities said.

The power failure knocked out lights on platforms and electronic train signs from about 4:50 to 6:40 p.m., said Marc Magliari, an Amtrak spokesman.

Power to the main terminal was not affected.

Amtrak trains did not lose power but ran 10 to 15 minutes behind schedule to help ensure that passengers boarded the right trains, Magliari said.

MARC and VRE trains were delayed by malfunctioning rails switches caused by the outage, authorities said.