Dave Sweet
WMAL.com
WASHINGTON — (WMAL) WMATA General Manager Paul Wiedefeld released a statement Monday confirming single-tracking on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines that caused delays for morning commuters would continue for the rest of the day. Commuters who rely on those modes of transportation are advised to seek “travel alternates” if possible.
At about 4:30 a.m. Monday morning a fire broke out at McPherson Square Station closing down service and causing 30 to 60 minute delays along the Blue and Orange Lines. Silver Line trains were contained between Wiehle-Reston East and Ballston to reduce congestion.
According to Wiedefeld, rail service for the rest of the day is as follows:
- Blue and Orange line trains will continue to share a single track between Foggy Bottom and Federal Triangle during the afternoon and evening hours. This will result in delays in both directions. You should consider travel alternates if possible, such as the Yellow Line between DC and Virginia or Metrobus options if available.
- Silver Line trains will continue operating between Wiehle-Reston East and Ballston only. Customers should use Orange Line trains to complete their trip between Virginia and DC.
- During the evening rush hour, Blue and Orange eastbound trains will skip Farragut West and McPherson Square to reduce delays. Listen for station announcements, check platform signs or sign up for MetroAlerts for details.
- Starting at 9 p.m., all rail service will be suspended in both directions between Foggy Bottom and Federal Triangle to allow for repairs. Metro will provide shuttle bus service between the affected stations. Please allow additional travel time.
“I have directed that repairs start at 9 p.m. tonight when ridership is lower,” said Wiedefeld. “At that time, rail service will be suspended on both tracks between Foggy Bottom and Federal Triangle.”
For more information on the WMATA schedule for the remainder of the day see their press release.
(Photo: wikipedia.org)
