Metro News Release
For immediate release: November 18, 2010
Metro continues support of improved bicycle, pedestrian access to stations
Metropolitan Branch Trail to connect seven Metrorail stations
The Metro Board of Directors is continuing to support improved bicycle and pedestrian access to Metrorail stations by allowing the District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) to construct, operate and maintain portions of the Metropolitan Branch Trail on Metro property at five Metrorail stations on the Red Line.
Today, Nov. 18, the Board approved the negotiation and execution of an easement agreement with DDOT to construct, operate and maintain portions of the Metropolitan Branch Trail at the Brookland-CUA, Fort Totten and Takoma Metrorail stations.
“This partnership between Metro and the District of Columbia is a good example of how we can work together to improve the quality of life for the residents of this region,” said Metro Board member Neil O. Albert, who represents the District of Columbia. “The Metropolitan Branch Trail will help connect rail stations along two busy Metrorail lines with nature for transit users, pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy for decades to come.”
Earlier this year, the Board approved an easement agreement with DDOT for construction of a bicycle and pedestrian bridge to provide access to the Rhode Island Ave-Brentwood Metrorail station from the Metropolitan Branch Trail. Another easement agreement is in place for New York Ave-Florida Ave-Gallaudet U Metrorail station.
When completed, the eight-mile Metropolitan Branch Trail will provide direct access to seven Red Line stations and one Green Line station between Union Station and Silver Spring and will also connect to the Washington area’s regional trails at the Capital Crescent Trail and the East Coast Greenway.
The District expects more than 1 million people per year will use the Metropolitan Branch Trail, and Metrorail stations along the trail will see improved access for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Metro staff is planning to brief the Metro Board Policy, Program, Development and Intergovernmental Relations Committee in December about the results of a Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements Study. The study evaluated existing and projected bicycle and pedestrian demand and access to stations throughout the entire Metrorail system.
News release issued at 2:04 pm, November 18, 2010.