In article <fu1549$frc$2@reader2.panix.com>, <sch@panix.com> wrote:
> Peter Schleifer <pschleif@speakeasy.org> wrote:
> : On Sun, 13 Apr 2008 14:18:39 +0000 (UTC), sch@panix.com wrote:
>
> : >For some reason, they will no longer use the express tracks in Brooklyn to
> : >route trains around problem trains,
>
> : "Some reason" being the fire several years ago at Bergen St that
> : destroyed the equipment needed to operate those switches (they can be
> : moved manually which is OK for a weekend of diversions but can't be
> : done in the middle of rush hour). Rebuilding was apparently not a
> : priority, but it is supposed to be possible again real soon now.
>
> : The MTA has promised to consider extending the V to Church as an
> : express in 2012 (after the viaduct reconstruction is complete), so the
> : switches should be operational by then.
>
> Except that they can route trains around Ft. Hamilton, 15th Stree, 7th Ave
> and 4th Ave and then go back to the local track. At least they could do
> that a few months ago. They will not do that today.
They don't do that usually since the F would then get stuck behind a
relaying G train at 4th Ave. There are also times when they can't
reroute at Church Ave because there is no Tower Operator on duty.
>
> Also, in a recent news article, the MTA was talking about extending the G
> to Church Avenue, not the V. I think with the current volume, extending
> the V makes more sense. In fact, it would be great for me, since Church
> Avenue is my home stop!
>
> None of this explains the poor car maintenance and the "new" less frequent
> schedule with more crowded trains.
The daily timetable that currently runs on the F has not changed at all
since May 2004. If you have suddenly noticed a change then it is a
result of something not timetable related.
>
> -SCH! (Stuart C. Hellinger sch@panix.com)