Riders can now pay fares with contactless credit or debit cards, as well as mobile wallet and smartwatch virtual cards. This will allow tourists and anyone who would prefer not to use the fare machines a quick and easy way to ride the Metrorail.
It’s important to note that if you use SmartBenefits or have a fare discount, you must still use your designated SmarTrip card. For the full list of everything you need to know about Tap. Ride. Go., read the press release here.
Automatic Train Operation (ATO) has fully launched for the entire Metrorail system. According to the WMATA press release about ATO launching on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines, “ATO controls the train’s acceleration, deceleration, and speed. Trains get signal and speed commands from equipment located between the tracks for a smoother ride, enhanced safety, and improved on-time performance.”
Train operators will remain in the cab and continue to be responsible for customer safety, even with ATO handling some train functions. ATO is not used during inclement weather, single tracking, or when workers are on the tracks, allowing operators to stay focused on monitoring conditions and ensuring safe operations.
Longer weekend hours for the Metrorail began on Saturday, June 22. On Saturdays and Sundays, the rail system will open one hour earlier at 6 a.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, trains will run until 2 a.m., an hour later than before.
Metro is introducing new service patterns to improve convenience for riders. The Silver Line will now run with half of trains traveling between Ashburn and Downtown Largo and the other half between Ashburn and New Carrollton, with extra trains during weekday rush hours. Metro leaders say these changes support growing ridership and improve service without raising fares. Don’t forget to check the destination of the train before getting on! Updated maps will be displayed on digital screens, and paper maps will be available in stations and trains in the near future.
New Metrobus signs have been popping up across Arlington and the entire DC region as WMATA gets ready to launch the Better Bus Network Redesign on Sunday, June 29. This historic redesign is the first comprehensive upgrade to Metrobus service in 50 years. WMATA aims to improve efficiency and better meet riders' needs with the change of service routes and schedules.
Metrobus routes are getting new, simplified names based on the area they serve, and riders can use WMATA’s Trip Planner to easily find updated routes and stop locations, keeping in mind that some stops will no longer be serviced. To help you prepare for the changes, Arlington Transportation Partners has gathered everything you need to know to plan your commute. To get all the details, check out our blog post.
Big changes are happening across Metro, and a little preparation can help make your commute a lot easier. Whether it’s new Silver Line service patterns, updated Metrobus routes, or contactless fare payment, these improvements are designed to make getting around simpler and more reliable. Be sure to double-check your route, give yourself a little extra time, and explore the new options.
Want to learn more about the upcoming Metrobus changes and have the chance to ask questions? ATP is hosting a webinar on July 8 at 11 AM to help you prepare. Registration is free and open now.
Photo Credit: Sam Kittner/kittner.com for Arlington Transportation Partners