Metro News Release

For immediate release: August 3, 2011

Metro announces early opening, enhanced service for Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial dedication event


System to open at 5 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 28; no weekend track work

Metrorail will open two hours early – at 5 a.m., operate enhanced service on all lines, suspend track work and offer free parking at all stations as part of Metro’s effort to accommodate customers attending the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial dedication on Sunday, Aug. 28.

“We are looking forward to welcoming thousands of guests aboard Metro for this historic event,” said Richard Sarles, Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer.

To avoid lines, customers are strongly encouraged to purchase a farecard or one-day pass prior to traveling. If using SmarTrip®, be sure there is sufficient value on the card to complete your round trip.

For a limited time, customers can purchase a special commemorative one-day pass featuring an image of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. The $9 pass allows for unlimited travel on the day it is used (subject to the same conditions as a standard Metro one-day pass). Customers can purchase the commemorative pass online, at Metro sales offices and regional transit stores.

Rail Service on Sunday, Aug. 28

  • Metrorail will open two hours early – at 5 a.m. – and close at midnight.
  • Enhanced service will operate throughout the day on all lines. Between 5 a.m. and 8 p.m., trains will operate every 8-12 minutes, with even more frequent service on sections of the Red and Orange lines.
  • Bicycles will not be permitted in the Metrorail system.
  • For safety reasons, many station escalators will be turned off to help meter the flow of crowds.
  • Parking will be free at all Metro operated lots. Customers planning to park are strongly encouraged to arrive early.  

Bus Service on Sunday, Aug. 28

  • Metrobus service will operate on a normal Sunday schedule.
  • Detours are possible due to anticipated street closures around the National Mall.
  • Bus customers traveling via downtown are encouraged to allow additional travel time.

MetroAccess Service on Sunday, Aug. 28

  • MetroAccess customers are reminded to reserve their trip by 4:30 p.m. the day prior to travel.
  • MetroAccess customers are encouraged to allow extra travel time due to expected traffic throughout the service area. Detours are possible around the National Mall due to street closures.

 

News release issued at 10:28 am, August 3, 2011.