Metro reminds customers of Green Line capital improvement project that will close two stations

Starting Saturday, August 5 through Sunday, August 20, 2017, Metro will undertake a capital improvement project on the Green Line to rebuild an interlocking, a crossover section of track where trains move from one side to the other. During that time two stations - Branch Ave and Suitland - will be closed. On two consecutive weekends, August 12-13 and 19-20, the work zone will be extended and a third station, Naylor Road, also will be closed.

Rebuilding the interlocking is a complex process, involving the replacement of four switches that are near the end of their useful life and requires simultaneous work on both tracks. The project also includes signal upgrades, power cable renewal, grout pad replacement, station rehabilitation, preventive maintenance and replacement of approximately 1,500 crossties on a 4.5 mile section of track.

"These planned capital improvement projects are necessary to ensure the tracks are properly maintained, resulting in fewer delays for customers due to track issues," said Metro General Manager/CEO Paul J. Wiedefeld. "The long-term benefit is a safer, more reliable system and customers should experience a smoother, better ride."

The work is scheduled for a time of year when ridership is lightest and will impact only two of Metro's 91 stations over ten weekdays. Service at Metro's other 89 stations will operate normal service on weekdays.

Working around the clock on both tracks will allow crews to work safely and efficiently while maintaining reliable service to the rest of the system. The same work would take nearly three months of weekend single tracking to complete.

Service Information

On weekdays, buses will replace trains between Branch Ave and Naylor Road stations. Customers who normally use Branch Ave or Suitland stations are strongly encouraged to consider using Anacostia or Southern Ave instead, travel during off-peak times or use alternate travel options. On weekends, buses will replace trains between Branch Ave and Southern Ave.

This is the first of three major track work projects planned over the next year as part of Metro's new program of preventive maintenance and planned capital work announced last spring to maintain a state of good repair.

Fall Project: Rebuild interlocking outside Takoma Station

• November 25-December 10, 2017 (10 commuting days)
• Takoma Station will be closed

Spring Project: Rebuild interlocking and grout pads outside Huntington

• May 12-27, 2018 (10 commuting days)
• Huntington and Eisenhower Avenue stations will be closed

Metro is conducting extensive customer outreach at Green Line stations affected by the temporary shutdown.

Additional information and travel alternatives can be found on wmata.com on the upcoming track work page, or for assistance customers may call Metro Customer Service at 202-637-7000.