Maryland Launched Direct MARC Route to Baltimore
Commuters and businesses in Montgomery County gain a new transit link that bypasses Washington's Union Station.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Transportation
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The Maryland Transit Administration has launched a new weekday MARC train service connecting Montgomery County directly to Baltimore. By bypassing Union Station, the route streamlines travel for workers heading to employers and medical centers in the region.
Why it matters
This service change expands regional mobility for Maryland employers by directly linking Montgomery County hubs with Baltimore's commercial centers. It offers businesses in both corridors a more efficient commute option for staff and clients, potentially reducing transit times compared to traditional routes via D.C.
The new service features one daily round trip, with travel times of 57 minutes from Silver Spring and 78 minutes from Gaithersburg to Camden Station. Riders currently receive a $2 discount on one-way tickets to specific stations.
The players
Maryland Transit Administration
The state agency responsible for managing and operating public transit services throughout Maryland.
The details
The train operates by switching to the Camden Line immediately after departing Silver Spring, maintaining efficiency by skipping the stop at Union Station in Washington. The route includes strategic stops at College Park and Laurel to facilitate access to schools and employment hubs. Morning service begins in Brunswick at 6 a.m., with the return trip departing Baltimore's Camden Station at 5 p.m.
Timeline
The new weekday through service officially launched on September 28, 2026.
Morning trains depart Brunswick at 6 a.m. daily.
Evening return trains depart Camden Station at 5 p.m. daily.
Market Landscape
This route adjustment follows the pattern set by the Maryland Transit Administration's regional transit expansion plan. By prioritizing direct links between suburban employment hubs and Baltimore, the agency is shifting away from the traditional, hub-and-spoke dependency on Washington-area terminals.
Businesses should evaluate how this new transit connection impacts employee commute reliability and access to the Baltimore labor market. Managers should track the upcoming announcement of discounted weekly and monthly passes to potentially subsidize or offset transportation costs for staff.
The takeaway
The addition of this direct rail link signals an increased focus on Maryland-centric commuting infrastructure. Operators should monitor the Maryland Transit Administration portal for the official rollout of bulk fare discounts, which could provide a new avenue for regional talent recruitment.
Further reading
For more information on regional rail updates, visit the Transportation section.
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Do you support the expansion of direct commuter rail lines in your area?
