Metro News Release

For immediate release: March 1, 2006

Metro to Test its Newest 6000 Series Rail Cars Throughout the Rail System

For the next several weeks, Metro will conduct compatibility and safety tests on its newest 6000 Series rail cars to ensure that they are compatible with the other rail cars in the fleet. The work is necessary to prepare the new 6000 Series rail cars for passenger service later this spring.

The tests will place throughout the Metrorail system weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The test trains will have large big red signs on the side of every other car window that say, "Please do not board. We’re testing this new rail car to better serve you."

After successful completion of car compatibility and safety testing, Metro will move to a second phase of testing. In this test, Metro will run a train consisting of eight, 6000 Series rail cars throughout the system and test automatic and manual train operations.

Metro has ordered 184 of these new rail cars. They will be placed into service over the next two years as they arrive. These cars have a new interior design to improve passenger flow and efficiency. Riders can expect to board a new 6000 Series train later this spring.

News release issued on March 1, 2006.