Metro considering possible service changes by summer

WASHINGTON - Metro is considering possible service changes that could speed up your commute -- some of which could come as early as this summer.

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FOX 5's Bob Barnard says the plan would involve adding more trains and buses more frequently for longer hours.

Some key highlights of the proposed plan include:

Metrorail:

- Offer higher all day frequencies, with consistent midday service and improved 6 to 12-minute weekday evening and weekend service; offer improved later evening service with no less than 15-minute service on all lines at all times.

- Increase weekday peak frequencies to 5 to 10 minutes to accommodate returns to in-person work and school.

- Extend hours to midnight, 7 days a week by Summer and extend to 1 am on Friday and Saturday nights by Fall.

Metrobus:

- Launch 12 minutes or better service on 20 lines from 7 am to 9 pm, 7 days a week.

- Offer consistent 20 minutes or better service on an additional 16 lines between 7 am to 9 pm, 7 days a week.

- Restore additional bus service to better serve customers and prepare for returning ridership

Barnard says Metro is also proposing a flat rate of $2 on weekends. The proposals come as Metro hopes to recover ridership that was lost during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the full proposal online.