Increased Metro-North train service begins

The Metro-North Railroad implemented a new schedule Monday with trains running more frequently on the New Haven Line during off-peak weekday hours and on weekends. Trains now run every half-hour between New Haven and New York City.

“For the first time ever, Metro-North will run New Haven Line trains to New York City around the clock on the weekends and during off-peak hours,” Gov. Dannel Malloy said in a press release reminding riders of the change.

The schedule enhancement is a response to the Metro-North’s promise to ensure trains are more “frequent, reliable and convenient,” Malloy said.

Three new midday trains depart from New Haven on weekdays, at 11:25 a.m., 12:25 p.m. and 1:25 p.m. Four new trains depart from Grand Central Terminal at 9:34 a.m., 10:34 a.m., 11:34 a.m. and 12:34 p.m.

On Saturdays, new trains depart from New Haven at 2:25 p.m., 3:25 p.m. and 6:25 p.m. New trains depart from New York at 10:34 a.m., 11:34 a.m., 12:34 p.m., 1:34 p.m., 2:34 p.m. and 10:34 p.m.

On Sundays, new trains depart from New Haven at 2:25 p.m., 3:25 p.m. and 7:25 p.m. New trains depart from New York at 11:34 a.m., 12:34 p.m., 1:34 p.m., 2:34 p.m. and 10:34 p.m.

On Saturday and Sunday nights, a new 10:10 p.m. train departs Waterbury ”“ two hours later than the final train previously ran. A new train departs from Grand Central at 10:04 p.m. and Bridgeport at 11:41 p.m. ”“ an hour later than before.

“A modern and efficient transportation network is one of the key components of a competitive business climate, and more frequent service between New Haven and New York, along with other upgrades to the Metro-North system, will add more options for business travelers and improve service along the critical New Haven Line,” said Joe Brennan, executive vice president of the Connecticut Business & Industry Association, in the press release.

The New Haven Line runs between Manhattan and New Haven, with branches to New Canaan, Danbury and Waterbury.