Summer Metro Shutdown: 6 Alternatives To Consider In Fairfax Co.

HUNTINGTON, VA—If you haven't nailed down how you will get around during the summer Metro shutdown, there are a few alternatives to consider. The Braddock Road, King Street-Old Town, Eisenhower Avenue, Huntington, Van Dorn Street and Franconia-Springfield stations will be closed from May 25 to Sept. 8.

We've rounded up alternative transportation options for Fairfax County residents below.

1. Shuttles

The closest thing to riding Metrorail will be the free shuttle buses provided by Metro and DASH. A Blue Line shuttle will serve Reagan National Airport, King Street, Van Dorn Street and Franconia-Springfield but not Braddock Road. A Yellow Line shuttle will serve Crystal City, Braddock Road, King Street, Eisenhower Avenue and Huntington but not National Airport. There will be express shuttles from Huntington, Franconia-Springfield and Landmark Mall to the Pentagon. See maps of shuttle routes here.

2. Metrobus

There are several bus routes serving Fairfax County. The 10a bus runs between Huntington and Pentagon and the 10e runs between Hunting Point and Pentagon. The 11y Mount Vernon express line will have increased peak travel service. See all bus options from Metro here.

3. Fairfax Connector

Fairfax Connector will provide enhanced 393 and 394 service during the shutdown. The 394 express service serves the Saratoga, Backlick North and Gabrill Road Park & Rides and the Pentagon. The 393 serves these stops and the Mark Center. These routes will depart every 10 minutes during peak travel times. See more information here.

4. Virginia Railway Express

The weekday commuter rail service has Lorton and Franconia-Springfield stops on the Fredericksburg line and Burke Centre, Rolling Road and Backlick Road stops on the Manassas line. Both lines stop at Alexandria, Crystal City, L'Enfant Plaza and Union Station. To see schedules and fares, visit www.vre.org.

5. Carpooling

If you need to drive on Interstate 395 when HOV-3 restrictions are in effect, try carpooling. You can connect with other carpoolers through Commuter Connections or join a slug line.

6. Ridesharing

There are various ridesharing options in the DC region, from Uber and Lyft to traditional taxi services.