Metro News Release

For immediate release: December 28, 2010

Escalator modernization work fast-tracked at the Union Station and Gallery Pl-Chinatown Metrorail stations

Metro to accelerate completion of modernization work

Metro is fast-tracking escalator modernization on four units at the Gallery Pl-Chinatown Metrorail Station (7th St. entrance access to Red Line platforms) and on four units at the Union Station Metrorail station (1st St. entrance platform to mezzanine and mezzanine to Amtrak entrance). During this timeframe, one unit will be removed from service and a second unit will be used as a staircase.

To minimize inconvenience to riders, Metro officials aim to complete this rehabilitation project within eight weeks instead of 12 weeks by utilizing two work shifts. Work is scheduled to begin in early January and should be complete by the end of February.

The work at both stations involve the removal, refurbishment or replacement of all escalator parts including existing escalator steps, handrails, safety devices, and the electrical systems within the units.

News release issued at 10:14 am, December 28, 2010.