Question 1

How did Metro close its huge deficit?

Accepted Answer

As a tri-jurisdictional transit agency, Metro lacks a dedicated funding source, and D.C., Maryland and Virginia frequently quarrel over their share of investment in the transit system. In recent years, the funding gap ballooned as ridership collapsed during the pandemic and then federal relief funds expired. In December, Metro warned that amid a $750 million deficit, it would close 10 rail stations and eliminate half its bus lines unless the region’s jurisdictions substantially increased their funding. Then, in February, the transit agency announced that the three jurisdictions had committed $480 million — enough to stave off the cuts, though fare hikes would be necessary. Still, Metro warned there could be funding hurdles in the coming years if the region doesn’t establish dedicated funding for the system. On Wednesday, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, which oversees Metro, convened for the first time with a group of regional leaders to initiate plans for a long-term funding strategy. The group aims to release a draft plan in March and a final plan two to three months later.

Question 2

How much will fares go up?

Accepted Answer

Starting July 1, customers will experience a 12.5 percent fare increase, which Metro says keeps fares in line with inflation. The maximum rail fare will increase from $6 to $6.75, and the base rail and bus fares will increase from $2 to $2.25. Late-night and weekend fares will rise from a $2 flat charge to between $2.25 and $2.50, depending on trip distance. MetroAccess, a paratransit service for people who cannot use bus and rail systems, will increase maximum fees from $4 to $4.50. The cost of a monthly rail pass will increase by 12.5 percent, from between $64 and $192 (based on ride distance) to between $72 and $216. Metro will also charge 5 cents an hour for bicycle lockers, up to $1 per day, replacing a system of annual leases. Parking fees will not change.

Question 3

Will there be any service changes?

Accepted Answer

No bus or rail service will be eliminated, and most riders won’t notice a difference in their commutes. Only Metrorail’s Orange Line, which runs between New Carrollton and Vienna, will change slightly, arriving at stations every 12 minutes, up from 10 minutes currently. This matches the frequency of the Blue and Silver lines, which share tracks with the Orange Line through downtown D.C.

Question 4

How will Metro spend its money?

Accepted Answer

The budget will largely be used to maintain bus and rail service levels throughout the transit system and pay its roughly 12,000 employees. Metro plans to purchase 256 new 8000-series rail cars, which will feature amenities like larger display screens, dedicated spaces for bicycles and luggage, and heated floors. The cars will replace the oldest cars in the fleet — the 2000- and 3000-series cars, which date to the 1980s. The transit agency will also continue to convert its bus fleet from gas and hybrid to electric, renovate its bus garages, and conduct maintenance for rail tracks and vehicles.

Crisis averted, fares hiked: What Metro’s new budget means for riders