metro

From WMATA:

“Metro has a message for fare evaders: operating buses and trains isn’t free. Customers riding Metrobus and Metrorail are required to pay fares and will be warned accordingly. Starting Oct.4 your Metro will begin a warning campaign to alert people who neglect to pay fares that there are fines associated with fare evasion in each jurisdiction.

The warning campaign will begin with notices displayed on digital signs throughout the system. After the digital signs run for two weeks, Metro Transit Police (MTPD) officers and other Metro personnel will start distributing physical fliers to fare evaders with the same warning information. (more…)

photo by Victoria Pickering

From WMATA:

“Metro is “Working Differently” to launch several public safety initiatives that will strengthen and support customer safety and community service for those who use our transit system.

Metro Transit Police (MTPD) have strategically increased officer availability to be more visible throughout the Metrobus and Metrorail system to offer customers additional support. Officers are riding trains and buses in intervals throughout the day as part of the new safety patrol operation “HelpingHands.”

“We’ve been listening to customers over the past two months, and it’s clear that a better, safer customer experience is paramount to rebuilding ridership and customer trust,” said GM and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. “The steps we are taking are part of a larger framework that enhances the work MTPD is already implementing to improve Metro daily.”

In the coming months, Metro will hire several Crisis Intervention Specialists trained in mental health awareness and de-escalation methods. They’ll be paired with an MTPD officer or Operating staff to respond to customers with mental health disorders, intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Since the pandemic, MTPD has seen a 40 percent increase in people in need of mental health assistance. (more…)

From WMATA:

“Beginning Sept. 11, Metro will implement five station name changes on signage and maps across the system as requested by local jurisdictions and approved by the Metro Board of Directors. Customers will see immediate changes on digital maps throughout rail stations and on bus displays as well as on wmata.com, Trip Planner, and Next Arrivals. Destination signs on Metrobuses and announcements also will recognize new station names. Static maps will be gradually updated once new Silver Line stations and Potomac Yard Station open for passenger service.

Five Station Name Changes: (more…)