Metro to replace track switch to comply with NTSB recommendation

DRAFT PRESS RELEASE Washington, D.C., Metro officials will replace a track switch to improve rail system safety and conduct several additional projects between the Takoma and Glenmont Metrorail stations, which will necessitate the closure of five Red Line stations throughout Labor Day Weekend, (Sept. 3-7). The track switch replacement is work that has been recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board. 



In addition, track
workers will focus on replacing old components to keep the rail system in a
state of good repair. They will replace two old track switches at the Silver
Spring Metrorail station and install 750 new track fasteners, 1,720 new
crossties, 525 feet of new track, 500 new rail insulators, new tunnel safety
lights and repair up to 4800 feet of water leaks in the tunnels.

To help ensure fire-safe
conditions, Metro will also replace 6,400 feet of emergency fire lines along
the tracks. To support upgraded cell phone access in the Metrorail system,
2,400 feet of new fiber optic communications cables will be installed. The
improved cell phone access is a Congressional mandate and serves as an added
customer convenience as well as a safety enhancement.

New heater tape will be
installed along the outdoor tracks to help improve rail conditions during times
of the year when ice and snow is expected. Heater tape helps ensure that there
is less of a build-up of ice or snow on the tracks during inclement winter
conditions and helps maintain rail service during such storms. 



The Takoma, Silver
Spring, Forest Glen, Wheaton and Glenmont Metrorail stations will be closed
during the Labor Day Holiday weekend from 10 p.m., Friday, Sept. 3 through 1
a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 7. Service will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 7, at 5 a.m.,
although speed restrictions will be in place through the work zone. 



This will be one of the
largest maintenance projects involving station closures in Metro’s 34-year
history. By consolidating the work during the Labor Day Holiday weekend, Metro
will save more than $1 million in late-night maintenance costs that would have
otherwise resulted in 150 days of single-tracking. Officials anticipate having
more than 500 employees and four contractors working during the Labor Day
Holiday weekend.