UTA begins service test of commuter rail trains

UTA's new FrontRunner commuter rail service will be warming up the tracks starting today as the agency begins a "pre-revenue" service test.

Trains will be running on their projected normal schedules, making scheduled stops along the 44-mile run from Salt Lake to Weber County. Today's virtual service will run from 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Carrie Bohnsack-Ware, UTA spokeswoman, said that "quiet-zones" will not be in effect for the trial, so trains will be issuing warning horn blasts at all of the 43 street crossings on the route.

Bohnsack-Ware said the exercise allows the agency to conduct tests under conditions that reflect the day-to-day rigors of service. The train can operate at speeds up to 79 mph.

The FrontRunner North line is on schedule to begin passenger service this spring.