Metro to Increase Train Frequency During Peak Times in February

Metro announced this week that they would enhance train arrival times during the busiest periods and days of the week starting in February.

Beginning Feb. 21, Red Line customers will see trains departing every 8 minutes all day until 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday.

Additionally, beginning Feb. 7, customers on the Blue, Blue + (Yellow Line replacement), and Orange lines will see trains every 12 minutes from 6 – 9 a.m. and 3 – 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. As a result of these changes, Red Line customers can expect more frequent trains during the day and evening, as well as an improvement in the current 15-minute service on the Blue, Blue +, and Orange lines.

The improvements are part of Metro’s plan to increase service as more railcars from the 7000 series become available. The Orange Line will offer increased frequency as well as 8 cars to increase capacity, Metro announced in a press release.

“Our newest railcars have continued to provide safe and reliable service, and we are excited to deliver them where our customers most need them,” said General Manager & Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. “By making trains more frequent and increasing capacity with more 8-car trains, we are reducing crowding and making service more convenient.”

Metro said that as the agency gradually adds back service to meet growing ridership, future improvements to rail frequency will be announced in the coming months. In order to alleviate the pandemic workforce shortage, Metro has recruited and trained hundreds of rail and bus employees every month.

Last summer, Metro began a program of recovery from a vacancy level of 1900 people, consisting primarily of frontline employees, down to a current level of 1400 vacancies. Recruiting activities continue with hiring bonuses, competitive wages, and training that expands eligibility.

“Our veteran and growing workforce has demonstrated our deep commitment to safety as we work continuously to bring the Metrorail system back to full strength,” said Clarke. “I want everyone to know that Metro is hiring and that this team is doing amazing work to support the region as people return to workplaces, and we prepare for a busy tourism season.”