Despite glitches, mass transit is way to go

The winter snow blast took its toll on the valley's transit system Friday, resulting in snow-marooned buses, a derailed light rail train and stuck crossing arms.

But the system is still operational and officials are encouraging its use. Given poor road conditions, the system is still a good option for weekend shoppers daring enough to brave the snow in search of post-Christmas bargains.

"Definitely take UTA. We will be fully operational and running, but just be patient because there may be delays," Utah Transit Authority spokesman Justin Jones said.

With more snow expected over the weekend, however, UTA officials asked for particular caution by motorists approaching TRAX intersections.

"The biggest problem we're having is the power outages in the mid-valley area," UTA spokesman Justin Jones said.

As a safety measure, Jones said, TRAX crossing arms come equipped with a backup battery. But, because the outages have lasted longer than usual, "our battery backups are draining," Jones said.

Because the default position for the arms is in the down position, Jones said UTA is concerned that cars will begin to drive around them without looking. "TRAX train operators are treating these intersections as four-way stops," and motorists should do so as well, he said.

Friday morning, commuters on TRAX were delayed about 12 minutes after several tree branches fell on top of the lines near 3000 South.

UTA crews were busy all day, dealing with spun-out buses and other such delays.

"We did have a minor derailment at the (University of Utah) Medical Center stop, caused by the deep snow," Jones said. While crews worked into the afternoon to get the train back on track, Jones said UTA buses were called in to transport patrons to and from the hospital.

Snow also caused problems for TRAX train doors, which could not close all the way. That caused some trains to stall until snow could be removed from platforms.

Buses servicing ski resorts also experienced delays from road closures and difficult conditions, even with chains.

UTA officials said crews were working to correct the problems and that buses and trains are expected to run through the weekend.

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E-mail: gfattah@desnews.com