Metro proposal would offer refunds if trip is delayed

WASHINGTON - Metro board members is considering a plan to offer refunds if your Metro trip takes too long.

The proposal says if you experience a delay of 15 minutes or more during peak periods on Metrorail or on buses, your fare will be refunded to your SmarTrip card.

There would be times, including when the region is experiencing bad weather, where the refund policy would not be in effect.

You will need a registered SmarTrip card to get a refund, which can be done online. After your card is registered, Metro will be able to track each trip, and if your ride is delayed, a refund will be offered.

This proposed plan is part of the Metro's push to increase ridership.

"At some point, we have to say yes - we can deliver what we promised and we are willing to back it up," said Metro General Manager Paul Wiedefeld.

"I'm out every night speaking and half the questions I get are about Metro, and every question of those questions I get is about reliability," said Metro Board chairman Jack Evans. "They want get from point A to point B on time. I want to be assured that when I get on that train, I'm going to get there. And that is what our goal is."