“Metro today announced service plans for July 4, 2020, including extended service at selected stations following the Salute to America fireworks display on the National Mall.” Wait, What? Seriously. WTF

Photo via Secretary David Bernhardt

Secretary David Bernhardt tweets yesterday:

“It’s going to be another BIG firework show in DC this year! Thank you Fireworks by Grucci for making another generous donation to the @NatlParkService!”

From WMATA:

“Metro today announced service plans for July 4, 2020, including extended service at selected stations following the Salute to America fireworks display on the National Mall. While it is not known how many visitors will attend the event due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, all indications are that crowds will be much lighter than in past years. However, because the event may result in a modest increase in Metro’s ridership versus current levels, Metro will run more frequent trains and extend service beyond 9 p.m. at designated stations closest to the National Mall.

Customers are reminded that Metro cannot guarantee that social distancing will be possible at all times. Trains and stations may become crowded, and those planning to attend should consider all of their transportation options prior to traveling. Off-peak fares will be in effect all day, and parking will be free at all Metro-operated parking garages and lots.

For the safety of Metro’s frontline workforce, as well as other riders, Metro requires the wearing of cloth face coverings or masks while on the system, including all stations, platforms, trains and buses.

Service Information for July 4, 2020:

Metrorail will open at 8 a.m. with service on a “Covid-19 weekend schedule” during daytime hours.
More frequent service will begin on all lines at approximately 4 p.m. to accommodate the Salute to America event on the National Mall.
The following stations near the National Mall will remain open for “entry only” for 30 minutes after the conclusion of the fireworks display:
L’Enfant Plaza Orange Line Blue Line Yellow Line Green Line
Smithsonian Orange Line Blue Line
Federal Triangle Orange Line Blue Line
Metro Center Orange Line Blue Line Red Line
McPherson Sq Orange Line Blue Line
Farragut West Orange Line Blue Line
Foggy Bottom Orange Line Blue Line
Rosslyn Orange Line Blue Line
Farragut North Red Line
Gallery Place Red Line Green Line Yellow Line
After 9 p.m., most other stations will only be available for “exit only.” Metro will continue to run trains on all lines, in both directions until all customers have been accommodated.
Nine Orange/Silver line stations west of Ballston are served by shuttle buses, rather than trains, due to planned summer construction work. (Shuttle buses will be available at Ballston until the last train arrives)
Arlington Cemetery remains closed for both entry and exit until further notice.”