“Metrorail service will remain at the current reduced levels through at least November 15”

photo by Miki Jourdan

From WMATA:

“Metrorail service will remain at the current reduced levels through at least November 15 as Metro continues to work with the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission on a plan to get 7000-series railcars safely back into service.

Trains will continue operating every 15-20 minutes on the Red Line and every 30-40 minutes on all other lines. Silver Line service will continue to operate between Wiehle-Reston East and Federal Center SW only. Customers are encouraged, where it makes sense for them, to use Metrobus service as an alternative.

“It has been a difficult few weeks for those who rely on transit in the region, and we thank our customers for their continued patience as we work to increase service as quickly as we can with safety being our top priority,” said Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld. “We’ve completed inspections of every 7000-series railcar, over 3,000 axles in all, and are now working with the WMSC on a testing plan that will allow the trains to safely return to service. We will continue to provide regular updates to our customers and the public as more is known about a timeline for full service restoration.”

To make service more frequent and reduce crowding at certain times, Metro is working to grow the number of trains available for daily service from 31 trains to 50. That work entails accessing additional 2000, 3000 and 6000-series railcars and ensuring they are safe for service.

Customers are encouraged to use Metro’s trip planning tools for schedule information. Metro’s Trip Planner is updated with the current schedule, and Metro’s Live Train Map provides real-time information on where trains are throughout the system allowing customers to better prepare for their commute. Please allow additional travel time as a result of these schedule changes.”