Statement from WMATA Board Chair Paul C. Smedberg regarding Board action in response to derailment

The following is a statement issued on behalf of Chair Paul C. Smedberg, WMATA Board of Directors: 

As a result of the NTSB’s Blue Line derailment investigation, the WMATA Board of Directors announced today it is taking immediate action to retain outside consultants to serve as safety advisors to the Board. These independent advisors will provide the Board with expert opinions, analysis, and recommendations on a full range of issues concerning the safety, operations and organizational accountability of Metro. Areas of focus will include, but are not limited to: safety reporting, communications, inspections, roles and responsibilities, regulatory requirements, hazard identification, employee training, safety performance indicators/targets and procurement. This action is consistent with the Board’s safety oversight role to ensure WMATA develops, implements, and constantly improves processes to ensure the highest levels of safety for our customers and employees.