WMATA seeks public input on new schedule to boost maintenance time

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Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is requesting public input on proposed changes to its hours of operation in response to federal directives and to provide adequate time for maintenance to ensure the system’s safety.

WMATA says the four proposals add eight hours of track access per week, which would allow crews to enhance the safety, reliability and maintenance of the system.

To allow for as many public comments as possible, WMATA has planned a 9.5-hour public hearing for Oct. 25. The system is also facilitating multiple methods of comment submissions for community members who cannot attend the session, such as through an online survey, email submissions, in-person feedback opportunities with staff at several stations and an open house set for Oct. 20.

While WMATA temporarily adjusted service hours last June to implement its SafeTrack accelerated track repair program, the Federal Transit Administration and other experts say the system requires more time on the tracks to ensure adequate maintenance.

WMATA says the adjusted hours of operation and increased access to tracks will allow for efficient maintenance the rehabilitated tracks and signals, enabling crews to mitigate water ingress and carry out other safety-related maintenance and inspection tasks beyond the completion of SafeTrack. Officials say the revised hours are also expected to reduce the frequency of system shutdowns for major repairs.

Supplemental bus service is also under consideration by WMATA as an option to provide riders with travel alternatives during the system’s additional closure of eight hours per week. The transit service offers a preview of its bus service network here wmata.com/hours.