Metro News Release

For immediate release: January 30, 2010

Snowy roadways impacting Metrobus, MetroAccess service

Customers are encouraged to stay home, avoid traveling, if possible

Snow and icy roadways are limiting Metro’s ability to provide Metrobus and MetroAccess service today (January 30).

Metrobuses are operating on emergency snow routes only, which means that buses are traveling only on main roadways where streets are passable. Bus riders are encouraged to be extra cautious when boarding and alighting vehicles as many area sidewalks and roadways are slippery and could start to freeze this evening.

MetroAccess has cancelled all trips originating from customers’ home addresses for the remainder of the day. Customers who have already traveled from home are being contacted by MetroAccess staff to encourage them to return home earlier than scheduled. Customers also can call 301-562-5360 to arrange for an earlier pick-up time.

Metrobus and MetroAccess officials will be monitoring road conditions constantly with an eye toward expanding service levels and when conditions improve.

Metrorail is operating on a normal schedule, however de-icer trains remain on standby and may be used on above ground portions of track to help keep the electrified third rail free of ice, if necessary later this evening. The third rail must be ice-free to allow the flow of electricity from the electrified rail to the train to keep the train powered.

News release issued at 3:54 pm, January 30, 2010.