Metro News Release

For immediate release: September 29, 2005

Metro Returns Trash Cans to Metrorail Station Platforms

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) has begun the installation of new explosion containment trash receptacles to Metrorail station platforms.

Metro expects its station platforms to have trash bins once the installation is complete. The total cost of the trash cans, which includes installation, is $800,000.

"As part of our back-to-basics efforts, you can’t get more basic than keeping the system clean," said Metro’s Board Chairman Dana Kauffman. "These trash cans on steroids thwart terrorists while meeting our riders’ needs."

Metro removed trash receptacles from station platforms as a security precaution following September 11, 2001, prompted by customer concerns. "Since then, employees and patrons commented that Metrorail stations and rail cars have more trash," said Richard A. White, Metro’s General Manager and Chief Executive Officer. "We are now alleviating the problem by returning explosion containment trash cans to station platforms, similar to the ones located near fare vending machines and faregates."

The installation of these trash cans is another step toward Metro’s emphasis on safety, reliability, enhanced cleanliness and improved customer service and outreach. As part of Metro’s current fiscal year 2006 budget, Metro is investing $1.7 million in cleanliness enhancements, including doubling the staff assigned to clean rail cars at the ends of rail lines; adding cleaners to allow for frequent cleanings inside high volume stations; creating a second special project crew for special response cleaning needs at rail stations; and improving bus cleanliness by reducing the frequency of specialized interior bus cleanings from bi-weekly to weekly.

In the summer of 2002, Metro purchased 400 explosion containment trash cans that were installed near the fare vending machines and faregate areas of all Metrorail stations. The installation of those cans was made possible through an emergency safety and security funding grant from The White House and the U.S. Congress in December 2001.

"This is another example of how Metro listens to its customers and employees to address their needs," said Mr. White. "Now that the trash cans are returning to station platforms, we hope our customers will continue do their part by keeping the Metrorail system safe and clean by properly disposing their newspapers and other trash."

News release issued on September 29, 2005.