Metro News Release

For immediate release: December 25, 2010

Metro prepared for possible weekend snowstorm

Metrobus, Metrorail and MetroAccess on weekend schedules

Metro has personnel on standby to remove snow from station entrances and platforms and will monitor the region’s roads in preparation to operate rail, bus and paratransit services throughout the Christmas holiday weekend.

This winter, Metro has taken additional steps to better prepare for and improve service during inclement winter weather. The transit agency has 559 pieces of snow equipment ready to tackle snowfall at Metrorail stations, rail yards, parking garages, Metrobus garages and bus bays. During severe weather, Metro will limit or curtail bus, rail and paratransit service to ensure the safety of Metro customers and employees. Customers can get updates through Metro’s web site, by monitoring news accounts, and signing up for e-alerts.

Metrorail will operate on a Sunday schedule on Sunday, Dec. 26 from 7 a.m. to midnight. In the event the region experiences measureable snowfall, the agency has up to 20 de-icer trains available to place into service to combat snow and ice. Customers riding Metrorail are encouraged to use care and caution while entering and exiting stations as station platforms may become slippery due to weather conditions.

Metrobus also will operate on a Sunday schedule on Dec. 26 with personnel monitoring road conditions throughout the day. Customers are encouraged to call NextBus at 202-637-7000 or check Metro’s NextBus Web site to help determine when the next bus will arrive.

MetroAccess will operate its regular subscription trips on Dec. 26. MetroAccess personnel will monitor road conditions throughout the weekend. Customers with scheduled rides should call (301) 562-5360 for a status update of their ride.

There are a variety of ways for customers to stay informed during a major storm. Metro constantly updates local news media of Metro service changes. Information is also available at http://www.wmata.com/rider_tools/ealerts/ on the left side of the home page or by calling Metro at 202-637-7000. Customers can also subscribe to e-Alerts and receive up-to-date service disruption information on Metrorail and MetroAccess.

For additional information on how Metro is prepared for the upcoming winter season, please visit http://www.wmata.com/rider_tools/nextbus/arrivals.cfm .

News release issued at 12:25 pm, December 25, 2010.