Metro Debates Increasing Red Line Service, Seeks Public Input

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Metro is inviting the public to provide feedback on alternatives to increase service on the Red Line between Grosvenor-Strathmore and Shady Grove stations.

During weekday rush hours, Red Line trains operate every 8 minutes between Shady Grove and Glenmont, with additional trains between Grosvenor-Strathmore and Silver Spring providing service every four minutes between these stations.

Under a 2015 Resolution by Metro's Board of Directors, Metro is considering the elimination of trains that "turn back" at Grosvenor during rush hours and extend all Red Line train service to Shady Grove instead.

This would provide additional service to White Flint, Twinbrook, Rockville and Shady Grove stations. However, without turnbacks, most or all trains operating downtown will originate from Shady Grove, making some trains more crowded at Grosvenor and stations south.

Metro encourages customers to provide feedback on three alternatives under consideration:

• Option 1: Full elimination of the Grosvenor “turn back.” All Red Line trains that currently turn back at Grosvenor-Strathmore would extend service to Shady Grove. Trains would operate every 4 minutes between Grosvenor-Strathmore and Shady Grove.
• Option 2: Partial elimination of the Grosvenor “turn back.” Half of Red Line trains that currently turn back at Grosvenor-Strathmore would extend service to Shady Grove. Trains would operate on average every 5 minutes between Grosvenor-Strathmore and Shady Grove.
• Option 3: No change. Red Line trains would continue to operate every 8 minutes between Grosvenor-Strathmore and Shady Grove.

Customer feedback may be provided through 5 p.m. on Monday, May 21, 2018 by completing an online survey. Additional information can also be found at wmata.com/redline.

Comments will be provide to the Metro Board of Directors for their consideration in July. If approved, any changes are expected to be implemented in December.

Photo via WMATA