ALEXANDRIA, VA – There is good news for Metro riders. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has announced an expansion in rail service hours. The increase also allows for more trains and decreased wait times.
“Thanks to our congressional delegation, CARES federal funding makes it possible for us to restore service in support of economic recovery for the national capital region,” said General Manager and CEO Paul J. Wiedefeld. “As they return, we want our customers to know that facial coverings are required everywhere on the system, and the more frequent trains and buses we are adding will help you ride socially distant.”
According to a WMATA press release, the return to near-normal service will be the biggest effort in the agency’s 44-year history. While Metrorail increased service on August 16, Metrobrus schedule changes will not take effect until August 23.
“Thousands of Metro employees are getting ready to support the region as we restore most Metro service,” said Metro Chief Operating Officer Joe Leader. “The pandemic has posed challenges never before faced by Metro, and I want to extend my thanks to our customers – especially essential workers – for their understanding as we took unprecedented action to protect our essential frontline workforce and the public health.”
Metrorail Service
Rail hours are now:
- Monday through Friday: 5 a.m. until 11 p.m.
- Saturday: 7 a.m. until 11 p.m.
- Sunday: 8 a.m. until 11 p.m.
Eighty-seven of 91 stations are open to customers. Trains are running every eight minutes on each line during rush hours. During off-peak times, they are running every 12 minutes on the Red Line and every 15 minutes the Orange, Blue, Silver, Green, and Yellow Lines.
Metrobus Service
When new bus service begins next week, it will operate starting at 4 a.m. and end at midnight every day. Be aware that the schedule may vary by route. View the timetables HERE.
Keeping Customers Safe
Metro has monitored the use of and met the demand for pandemic-related supplies. This includes gloves, masks, and disinfectant. The agency has worked to identify local suppliers so that they could obtain, for example, three million face masks and 75,000 gallons of hand sanitizer for customers and employees.
Customer Reminders
WMATA reminds riders that face coverings are required on trains, buses, MetroAccess vehicles, and in Metro facilities. As ridership increases, social distancing may be difficult. They advise traveling during off-peak hours.
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