WMATA improves services with more trains, buses and simpler fares

Credit: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has announced that its customers can expect several service improvements in the coming week, as it implements its tenth enhancement since summer 2022. In response to post-pandemic travel patterns, the transit agency aims to provide safe, reliable and frequent service throughout the day and week, catering to all types of customers and facilitating connections across the region.

Starting 26 June 2023, Orange Line trains will operate every 10 minutes from opening until 21:30, and every 15 minutes thereafter, seven days a week. This represents an improvement over the current 12-minute weekday peak frequency and 15-minute off-peak frequency. Customers are advised to note the ongoing summer construction work on the Orange Line until 16 July.

In addition, Blue and Silver Line trains will run every 12 minutes from opening until 21:30, and every 15 minutes thereafter, seven days a week. This signifies an improvement over the current 15-minute off-peak weekday frequency.

These service enhancements will result in WMATA providing the highest train service levels in its 47-year history. Compared to July 2022, there will be 58% more trains in service on weekdays, resulting in a 73% increase in train trips.

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WMATA‘s bus service will also achieve a significant milestone, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 4% as of 25 June 2023. A total of 68 routes will experience improvements, including an expanded Frequent Service Network and enhanced connectivity. Noteworthy enhancements to the Metrobus service include increased frequency on Route B2 in the District of Columbia, extended service on Route A12, the introduction of new Route L12 in Maryland and the extension of service on Columbia Pike via new Route 16M in Virginia.

Simplifying fare structures is another positive development. On weekdays before 21:30, Metrorail rides will be subject to a distance-based fare, eliminating peak fares during rush periods. After 21:30 and on weekends, customers will continue to benefit from a $2 flat fare per trip. Regular Metrobus fares will remain $2 per trip, and the maximum fare for MetroAccess will be reduced to $4 per trip.

According to WMATA, ridership on Metrorail and Metrobus continues to increase, reaching a combined post-pandemic high of 802,000 trips on 6 June 2023. Peak-period travel is also on the rise, as evidenced by the busiest morning commute and highest single hour of Metrorail ridership since the pandemic began.