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The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) on June 24 reported the 13 North American organizations and leaders earning its annual awards for “vision, leadership and commitment to public transportation,” plus the induction of six new members into the APTA Hall of Fame.
The 2025 APTA Awards recognize organizations and transit leaders “who have demonstrated significant leadership, are outstanding role models of excellence, and whose accomplishments and innovations have greatly advanced public transportation,” according to the association.
And the honorees are:
ORGANIZATION AWARDS
Outstanding Public Transportation System:
Outstanding Partnership in Public Transportation:
INNOVATION AWARDS
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
Distinguished Service:
Outstanding Chief Executive Officer:
Outstanding Public Transportation Board Member:
Outstanding Public Transportation Business Member:
HALL OF FAME
“It is my honor to congratulate the winners of the 2025 APTA Awards and the Hall of Fame inductees for their dedication to advancing the future of public transportation, creating vital connections between communities, and driving innovation,” said MJ Maynard-Carey, APTA Board Chair and CEO, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada.
“The achievements and legacies of our awardees inspire us all to continue striving for excellence in our industry and to making a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals,” said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “Congratulations to all who have been recognized for their accomplishments and for making positive impacts in their communities and our industry.”
The 2025 APTA Awards will be presented at TRANSform, Sept. 14-17 in Boston, Mass.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s (WMATA) entire rail system is now utilizing automatic train operation (ATO) after being rolled out on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines. ATO launched on the Red Line six months ago.
This development marks the first full return to ATO since 2009. The full rollout followed internal training and testing and concurrence from the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission. Since the December 2024 implementation, WMATA says there have been no safety issues or red signal violations for trains operating in ATO.
“This is a major milestone for [WMATA], and it has been a long time coming. I want to thank the team for their dedication and commitment to making this happen,” said WMATA General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “This is a win for customers and staff who will experience safer, more reliable rides. Meanwhile, [WMATA] is saving money as ATO is more cost efficient.”
Along with the return to ATO, WMATA is also returning to the original speed of the system, up to 75 mph. Several outer portions of the Blue, Orange and Silver lines will see speed increases from 55 mph to 65 or 75 mph in some stretches.
Starting June 22, WMATA says it will reduce end-to-end travel times by about three minutes on all three lines. The Yellow and Green lines, which began using ATO in May, will also see decreased travel times of one to two minutes.
Based on analysis of several months of successful ATO operation in passenger service, WMATA notes end-to-end Red Line travel times have been reduced by a total of eight minutes. The agency says it is continuously monitoring the performance of ATO, and additional time savings on the Blue, Orange, Silver, Yellow and Green lines may be incorporated later this year.
"[WMATA’s] full restoration of automatic train operations after 16 years is a transformative achievement," said WMATA Board Chair Valerie Santos. "This advancement drives critical improvements in operations, efficiency, system safety, and the customer experience. It positions [WMATA] firmly on the path to delivering the world-class transit system our region demands. The board is unwavering in its commitment to advancing every improvement that elevates [WMATA’s] safety, service and performance."
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) officially restored Automatic Train Operation (ATO) across its entire Metrorail system, marking the first full return to the automated mode since 2009.
The rollout expands ATO from the Red Line — where it has operated successfully since December 2024 — to the Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines, following a successful phase-in on the Yellow and Green Lines in May.
WMATA decided to expand ATO after completing rigorous internal training and testing and receiving concurrence from the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission. Since the initial implementation on the Red Line, Metro reports no safety issues or red signal violations, reinforcing the system's reliability.
“This is a major milestone for Metro, and it has been a long time coming,” said WMATA GM/CEO Randy Clarke. “This is a win for customers and staff who will experience safer, more reliable rides. Meanwhile, Metro is saving money as ATO is more cost-efficient.”
The full return to ATO also allows WMATA to restore original system speeds of up to 75 mph.
Beginning on June 15, several outer portions of the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines will now see speed increases from 55 mph to 65 mph or 75 mph.
Beginning June 22, WMATA will reduce end-to-end travel times by approximately three minutes on each line. The Yellow and Green Lines will also benefit from one to two minutes of time savings.
The Red Line, which has been running under ATO since December, has already seen travel times reduced by eight minutes. WMATA is continuing to monitor the system and indicated that further efficiency improvements may be incorporated on all lines later this year.
“Metro’s full restoration of Automatic Train Operations after 16 years is a transformative achievement,” said WMATA Board Chair Valerie Santos. “This advancement drives critical improvements in operations, efficiency, system safety, and the customer experience. It positions Metro firmly on the path to delivering the world-class transit system our region demands.”
ATO automates the train’s acceleration, deceleration, and speed by receiving commands from trackside equipment, resulting in a smoother ride and improved on-time performance.
Although the system automates some of the train’s functionality, operators remain in the cab, responsible for customer safety, door operations, and monitoring track conditions.
ATO is not used in specific situations such as inclement weather, single tracking, or when track workers are present.
With the complete restoration of ATO, WMATA is reaffirming its commitment to delivering safer, faster, and more reliable service, aligning with its long-term modernization and operational excellence goals, the agency said in a press release.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority unveiled a “tap and go” payment option last week, allowing riders to use credit cards and mobile wallets to pay fares.
Metro riders can now enter faregates using physical and mobile credit and debit cards, WMATA announced in a press release last Wednesday. According to the release, WMATA added the payment methods to benefit tourists and occasional Metro riders who want to avoid lining up for fare machines and SmarTrip cards.
“Contactless payment is a world-class standard, and we are pleased to modernize our payment system, creating more accessibility and removing a friction point for those who may not be familiar with America’s Metro System,” said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke in the release.
The implementation of “Tap. Ride. Go” comes after Metro tried and failed to introduce credit card payments in 2016, opting instead to launch an app that allowed riders to reload their SmarTrip cards and tap mobile SmarTrip cards.
Clarke told the Washington Post that Metro set WorldPride, which runs through June 8 and is expected to bring more than 1 million people to the District, as the deadline to implement the new system. Metro has been working to implement the Tap. Ride. Go. program since late last year, according to the press release.
Metro riders do not need to sign up or register to use the new Tap. Ride. Go. feature, but they must use the same card on a round trip to tap in and out of the fare gates. Each customer must also use their own card, according to the release. Multiple customers may not use the same card on a single trip.
WMATA suggests taking out one card at the fare gate as opposed to tapping a wallet with multiple cards, which will prevent both cards being charged. Charges will appear on a credit card statement as Metro.
“We expect that open payment will offer increased convenience for our customers,” Metro Board of Directors Chair Valerie Santos said in the press release.
SmarTrip cards are still in operation. Those who qualify for fare discounts or SmartBenefits will still have to use their designated SmarTrip cards, as well as riders utilizing unlimited passes, according to the release.
WMATA said in the press release that the Tap. Ride. Go. feature will be available for use on Metrobuses and at Metro parking lots “in the future.”
“Today, Metro launched a new, faster, and easier way to pay fares called “Tap. Ride. Go.”
Customers can now simply tap a contactless credit or debit card with the contactless or mobile wallet/smartwatch virtual cards on rail station fare gates to pay for fares. SmarTrip cards (physical and mobile) will continue to be an option to pay for fares and parking.
Tap. Ride. Go. will be available for use on Metrobuses and at Metro parking facilities in the future.
The new way to pay will greatly benefit tourists and occasional customers who want to avoid fare machines and SmarTrip cards altogether. Customers can simply tap in at a faregate with a contactless credit or debit card and tap out with the same card to pay for their fares.
“Our Board of Directors is proud to celebrate Metro’s latest transformative initiative,” said Metro Board of Directors Chair Valerie Santos. “The launch of Tap.Ride.Go. fits into our strategic vision of enhancing service efficiency and accessibility. We expect that open payment will offer increased convenience for our customers — especially visitors to our National Capital Region — making it easier to access Metro, simplify their travel experience, and explore the region. This innovation is designed to modernize the customer journey and elevate Metro to world-class standards for seamless transportation.”
Metro has been working on the Tap. Ride. Go. program since late last year.
“The launch of Tap. Ride. Go. directly aligns with our priorities of continuous customer improvements,” said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “Contactless payment is a world-class standard, and we are pleased to modernize our payment system, creating more accessibility and removing a friction point for those who may not be familiar with America’s Metro System. Instead of visiting a fare machine or buying a SmarTrip card, all customers have to do is tap, ride, and go.”
What customers need to know about Tap. Ride. Go.
Customers must use the same card to tap in and tap out of the system.
Each customer needs their own card. The same card cannot be used for multiple people on the same trip.
Take out one card to tap at the faregate. Do not tap a wallet with multiple cards or a physical wallet on the back of a phone with a virtual credit card as it may charge both cards.
Customers can visit the customer dashboard and enter a debit or credit card number to view Tap. Ride. Go. transactions.
Any customer can use their contactless credit or debit card to pay at the fare gates, however those who have fare discounts or SmartBenefits will still have to use their designated SmarTrip cards.
Free transfers from rail to bus will not be available until Tap. Ride. Go. launches on Metrobus fareboxes in the future.
We encourage customers who use the system regularly to continue using SmarTrip cards and to register the card at smartrip.wmata.com to easily access their account information. Customers will also only be able to get their annual ridership statistics through Metro Rewind by using their SmarTrip card.
For more information on Tap. Ride. Go. and to read an FAQ, please visit wmata.com/tapridego. Metro’s partners in launching Tap. Ride. Go.
Tap. Ride. Go. was launched with help from contractors Littlepay (software overlay), Cubic (tap target readers), STraffic (faregates).
“Littlepay is proud to partner with WMATA on this groundbreaking initiative. In just 5 months, our overlay solution has delivered bank card acceptance across Washington Metro at a fraction of the cost seen in other cities,” said Littlepay CEO Amin Shayan. “Hopefully, this marks the end of an era of costly and disruptive system overhauls across the industry. We congratulate WMATA on having the confidence and foresight to challenge industry norms and set a new standard that saves taxpayers millions of dollars.”
“We’re proud to have played an essential role in building Metro’s vision for Tap. Ride. Go.,” said Peter Montgomery-Torrellas, President of Cubic Transportation Systems. “WMATA set a clear, high-priority timeline to enhance the rider experience with more flexible, intuitive fare payment options and this launch is a testament to that commitment. Leading the systems integration, the team at Cubic brought forward innovative engineering solutions and relentless focus to ensure the infrastructure was in place and on time. Congratulations to WMATA for launching this milestone moment for millions of customers across the region.”
“STraffic is honored to partner with WMATA’s Tap. Ride. Go. initiative by providing advanced faregate solutions that support seamless, reliable, and efficient travel for customers across the region,” said STraffic America CEO Ken Cho. “Our ongoing partnership in WMATA’s fare payment modernization effort reflects our commitment to accessing and applying worldwide innovations in public transit through reliance on open payment technologies.”
Metro also thanks our premier credit and debit card partners, Mastercard and FutureCard, for helping launch and promote Tap. Ride. Go.
“Mastercard is proud to support Metro in delivering the next evolution of transit payments in the nation’s capital,” said Victoria Din, Senior Vice President, Public Sector, Mastercard. “With Tap. Ride. Go., customers gain a seamless, secure, and convenient payment experience, empowering residents and visitors alike to effortlessly navigate the city. Innovations like contactless, open-loop payments are essential to building smarter, more inclusive cities—and Metro is leading the way.”
“Based just steps from the Silver Spring Station, we see every day how Metro’s investments keep the DMV moving,” said Jean-Louis Warnholz, CEO of Future, the fintech behind the FutureCard Visa Debit Card. “We’re excited to partner with Metro to reward customers with 5% cashback every time they ‘Tap. Ride.Go’ with FutureCard—and even bigger bonuses for commuters who rely on Metro every day.”
Customer Service
Self-service options for Tap. Ride. Go. are available 24/7 at the customer dashboard.
For other issues, Metro’s customer service team assists customers with questions, trip planning, and more via chat, email, phone, and our social media channels. Visit our contact page for more details.
Follow @wmata, @metrorailinfo, and @metrobusinfo on X or @wmata.com, @metrorailinfo.bsky.social, and @metrobusinfo on Bluesky for the latest service information.
Customers can call 202-GO-METRO (TTY 202-962-2033). Automated information available 24/7.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) launched MetroPulse, a new mobile app that allows customers to plan trips, chat with customer service, report issues on the system and more.
Features of the app include:
MetroPulse is now available in the Apple App Store. It will be in the Google Play Store in the coming days. MetroPulse initially launched as a website back in June 2023. WMATA notes the app brings many of the features to customers in a more accessible way.
According to the agency, a new chat feature brings a live chat experience where customers can send photos and videos directly to customer service to have safety and security concerns addressed. MetroPulse also includes transparent data about how the WMATA system is performing.
“We are striving to take the guesswork out of transit and streamline as much as possible so more people will choose our trains and buses over other forms of travel,” said WMATA General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “MetroPulse puts the real-time information customers need right in their pockets in a native app that is easy to use and navigate.”
WMATA says the app release marks the first iteration of MetroPulse mobile, but the app will continue to improve over time.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's (WMATA) buildings at Eisenhower and New Carrollton have been certified as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Last week, the governor announced his pledge after the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, which operates Metro, projected a $750 million shortfall next fiscal year, starting during the summer.
The University’s U-Pass system came into effect in the fall of 2016 after plenty of student support. The system charges each student a one-time mandatory fee factored into their tuition. In partnership with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, the University, which was the first in D.C. to adopt the program, provides full-time students with a U-Pass card with unlimited access to the D.C. metro and bus systems.
The U-Pass system saves students plenty of money — the one-time $136 fee covers the eight months students are on campus.
There’s no substitute for better service.
By Abdallah Fayyadabdallah.fayyad@vox.com Apr 10, 2024, 7:00am EDT
WMATA has taken several steps to reduce fare evasion, including retrofitted faregates at 33 of 98 stations so far, resulting in a 79% decrease in fare evasion at those locations; new, more reliable fareboxes on 60% of WMATA’s 1,500 buses, with a goal of upgrading all buses by the end of summer; and easier access to fare payment through mobile wallet; mobile payments are up 74% on rail and 35% on bus over last year.
Metro has committed to transitioning its entire 1,600-bus fleet to zero-emission vehicles by 2042. Starting in 2027, all new buses Metro purchases will be zero-emission buses. By that year, Metro will have opened its first all-electric bus garage, on 14th St., NW.
Earlier this year, Metro announced it would speed up the transition to electric, sliding the target up by three years, from 2045 to 2042. The first phase of the transition, which starts this year, will include 12 new electric buses — ten standard buses and two articulated buses.
Recently, Metro participated in DC’s National Drive Electric Week event on the National Mall. Metro staff members shared goals and progress toward a 100 percent zero-emission bus (ZEB) fleet and showcased one of our new 60’ battery-electric buses. Attendees were excited to learn about Metro’s plans and experience the brand-new electric bus firsthand!
National Drive Electric Week is the largest annual celebration and display of electric vehicles, with over 100,000+ people in attendance nationwide. It is a collaboration between Sierra Club, Plug In America, Electric Auto Association, and EV Hybrid Noire.
Metro’s participation in this event helped to raise awareness about our ZEB transition and educate attendees on the sustainability benefits of public transportation.
Every trip taken with Metro instead of a car decreases vehicle congestion, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, lowers air pollution, and supports healthy communities. That means more people riding in a Metrobus however it is powered, is already a sustainable transportation choice. Moving to a zero-emission bus fleet will make every trip with Metro even greener!
As part of Metro’s Better Bus initiative, Metro is committed to transitioning our approximately 1,600 bus fleet to zero emissions by 2042. ZEBs have no tailpipe emissions, which means improved air quality for our communities. Further, a full ZEB fleet will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 100,000 metric tons (83%) annually, helping the region meet its carbon reduction goals! In addition to the environmental benefits, our new ZEBs will provide a better bus experience, including a quieter and smoother ride and enhanced safety and convenience features.
To learn more about Metro’s zero-emission bus program visit wmata.com.
Metro’s new nerve center, the Integrated Command and Communications Center (MICC), is up and running. Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke and Metro Board Chair Paul C. Smedberg toured the MICC today during a ribbon cutting celebration for the new Metro Building at Eisenhower in Alexandria, joined by Congressman Don Beyer (VA-8th), Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson, Department of Rail and Public Transportation Director Jennifer DeBruhl, and other Virginia officials.
In constructing the Virginia office building, Metro targeted LEED Gold certification for sustainable building design. The building’s featured public artwork, titled “Tunnel Vision,” was inspired by Metro’s iconic underground stations with converging lines and light to capture the look of a moving train through the system.
The Anacostia Station was the first to break ground, followed by the Southern Ave Station, both of which are now up and running with a combined 4.4 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. The two stations are among four Metro facilities being transformed in DC and Maryland under the Solar Carport Project.
Metro’s proposed changes include redefining a "major service change," defining populations based on U.S. Census data with its Better Bus Network Redesign effort and raising the income threshold for low-income customers to account for the recent rise in the cost of living. Metro is also proposing to eliminate the $2 SmarTrip card fee for customers enrolled in reduced fare programs.
To read more details about Metro's proposed changes and to give feedback visit Metro's Title VI Program page on wmata.com.
Metro’s Headquarters Building at L’Enfant Plaza has been certified as LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum by the U.S. Green Building Council, the highest certification achievable in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program and a testament to the transit agency’s commitment to sustainability.
WMATA heavily invests in installing the required charging infrastructure and providing training and maintenance, as it works to accelerate its transition to a 100% zero-emission bus fleet by 2042.
Opening day is set for the Silver Line Extension - Tuesday, November 15 – connecting Metrorail customers to Washington Dulles International Airport and Loudoun County for the first time.
Washington Metrorail Safety Commission to gradually return all 7000-series railcars to passenger service. The increased availability of 7Ks will support opening the Silver Line extension before Thanksgiving and reduce crowding on the Red Line.
Metro announced today its first ever Strategic Plan for Joint Development, a detailed roadmap to increase private development opportunities on Metro-owned land. The bold 10-year initiative establishes a goal to execute 20 joint development agreements by 2032, strengthening coordination with local jurisdictional partners and streamlining processes for private development partners.
As Metro prepares for the opening of both the Silver Line Extension and Potomac Yard Station in 2022, the transit authority will also advance its intensive state of good repair program. This includes completion of the multi-year platform reconstruction effort at 20 outdoor rail stations and several large-scale construction projects, including a major rehabilitation of the Yellow Line’s Potomac River tunnel and bridge crossing.
Major step in advancing the Board’s recently adopted goal of transitioning to a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2045
Metro announced today that it will build its first all-electric bus garage, with infrastructure and equipment needed to run 100% electric vehicles, at the Northern Bus Garage in Northwest Washington, D.C. Construction of the operations and maintenance facility is expected to take four years once all approvals are received, and will open with a mix of the current Metrobus fleet and new battery-electric vehicles, transitioning to 100% electric as Metrobus’ electric bus fleet expands.
“This is an important step forward in Metro’s commitment to help our region reduce its environmental footprint, improve public health, and modernize our facilities,” said Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld. “We appreciate the Board’s leadership in contributing to the clean air targets shared by Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia.”
In June, Metro's Board of Directors adopted a goal of a 100% zero-emission bus fleet by 2045, with a full transition to battery-electric or other zero-emission bus purchases by 2030. A zero-emission bus fleet will improve regional air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide customers with a quieter, more comfortable ride. This phased conversion of the 1,500-vehicle Metrobus fleet will allow Metro to purchase vehicles as zero-emission technologies continue to improve to ensure consistent service reliability. It will also enable Metro and its regional partners to make needed investments in facilities, electric utility infrastructure, and workforce training to support the fleet transition.
Metro’s new Director of Zero-Emission Vehicles, Amy Mesrobian, is leading Metro's Electric Bus Test and Evaluation Program, which includes the procurement of approximately 12 electric buses. The Test and Evaluation Program will provide data and experience with electric bus performance in typical Metrobus operating conditions. The results of the Test and Evaluation will inform future acquisition of electric buses as well as the facility improvements and charging equipment needed to operate the electric buses. Learn more about Metro’s Zero-Emission Bus Program.
Metro will host a virtual community meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 21, to provide an update on the Northern Bus Garage Reconstruction Project and respond to community questions. This major reconstruction effort will preserve the historic 14th Street façade of the 114-yeard old building, while providing a modern bus facility that is capable of operating a 100% electric bus fleet. When the facility reopens, it will feature modern air filtration systems, solar panels and additional LEED characteristics, providing an environmentally responsible building for employees and community.
Metro today announced it has signed an agreement to redevelop the West Falls Church Metro Station site with FGCP-Metro, LLC, an affiliated partnership with EYA, LLC (EYA), Hoffman & Associates, and Rushmark Properties. The redevelopment plans will create a vibrant, mixed-use community with over one million square feet of office, retail, and residential space.
The project is the result of a multi-year effort between Metro, the development team, and Fairfax County to amend the Comprehensive Plan recommendations for the site to enhance an underutilized asset in Metro’s portfolio.
In 2019, Metro’s Board of Directors agreed to seek proposals for the site and gave approval to move forward with a joint development agreement (JDA) and compact public hearing last December. The deal is expected to generate long-term revenue for Metro through 99-year ground leases, in addition to fares from new ridership.
“Building transit-oriented development is an important strategy for managing many of this region’s most pressing challenges, such as traffic congestion, sustainability, housing production, and transit ridership recovery,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Paul J. Wiedefeld. “The West Falls Church Metro Station is a unique opportunity that will convert underutilized parking lots to provide housing, jobs and economic opportunities, and create a cohesive development plan with the adjacent publicly-owned sites.”
On July 13, The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved an amendment to its Comprehensive Plan to support development of both the Metro site and the adjoining Virginia Tech site, with mixed-use development emphasizing safe and convenient bicycle and pedestrian enhancements connecting to the Metro station.
"The plan presents an opportunity to better align the West Falls Church Transit Station Area with the County’s Transit Oriented Development Guidelines,” said Fairfax County Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust. “I am pleased that it envisions a vibrant mixed-use, pedestrian friendly environment and attractive public spaces, while respecting nearby established residential communities.”
“The execution of the JDA and vote by the Board of Supervisors are critical next steps in enabling the transformation of the West Falls Church Metro parking lots into a walkable, bikeable, and welcoming neighborhood,” said Evan Goldman, Executive Vice President of Acquisition and Development at EYA. “There is an evident need to create a pedestrian friendly development and optimize the West Falls Church Metro Station, and our team of developers look forward to making this happen.”
Over the next year, the joint development team will proceed through Fairfax County’s rezoning process to advance the design and planning for the West Falls Church Metro Station site.
The rezoning application will include the detailed plans for the redevelopment of Metro’s parking lots with apartments, townhomes, neighborhood retail, and public green spaces. It will connect the proposed mixed-use redevelopment of the Meridian High School (formerly George Mason High School) site in the City of Falls Church to the West Falls Church Metro Station with new bike lanes, broad sidewalks, publicly accessible park spaces and a secondary grid of streets that will help alleviate some of the congestion in the area.
Later this year, Metro will also hold a public hearing on the proposed changes to commuter parking and bus facilities.
Together with the surrounding community and Metro, EYA, Hoffman & Associates and Rushmark Properties, have created a thoughtful design that accommodates buses, Metro Kiss & Ride and Park & Ride users while transforming the property into a vibrant, inclusive, and walkable neighborhood with inviting, open spaces, sustainable design elements such as enhanced storm water management systems, affordable housing, safe pedestrian and bike connections and a community dog park.
Construction is anticipated to begin in 2023.
Metro today announced the issuance of Climate Bonds Certified green bonds as part of the agency’s commitment to delivering sustainable, cost-effective transportation service to the Washington Metropolitan Region. This green certification confirms that Metro’s planned capital investments support climate change solutions, including within the categories of clean energy and energy efficiency.
Issuing Climate Bonds will help Metro attract more environmentally conscious buyers to increase investor demand and result in a better, more competitive rate for the transit agency.
“This is an important step in supporting sustainability and contributing to the national capital region’s climate change objectives,” said Board Chair Paul C. Smedberg. “This green bond issue funds important capital investments in safety, reliability and Metro’s Energy Action Plan.”
The projected $874 million bond offer, approved by Metro’s Board of Directors last week, will fund capital projects in support of Metro’s Energy Action Plan to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiencies.
“As we build for the future, we recognize Metro’s leadership role to address the region’s climate challenges through sustainable transportation and solutions,” said Metro General Manager/CEO Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Issuing these bonds demonstrates our commitment to support the region’s sustainability goals and helps expand zero- and low-emission public transportation options in the Washington Metropolitan region.”
Over the next six years, Metro will make extensive capital investments in its fleet, traction power and infrastructure that will shape the region’s sustainability efforts. The Climate Bonds are based on the environmentally sustainable elements of the Capital Improvement Program and will finance green infrastructure and climate resiliency projects including:
The bond offering is verified by Kestrel Verifiers against the Climate Bonds Standard to ensure the proceeds are used exclusively to fund projects with material environmental benefits. Climate Bonds are bonds which have been verified against rigorous criteria to confirm consistency with the 2-degree Celsius warming limit established by the Paris Climate Agreement.
Issuing these bonds aligns with Metro’s commitment to sustainability. As outlined in its most recent sustainability report, Metro has made an impact on regional sustainability in three primary areas: Livability & Accessibility, Economic Prosperity, and Environmental Impact.
The Climate Bonds will help advance sustainable investments that protect the environment, improve the quality of life of residents and visitors to our region, and help facilitate a transition to a low-carbon economy.
Between 2018 and 2020 the amount of debt issued in the Green Bond market in the United States increased by a multiple of six times to $46.9 Billion. Metro’s Series 2021A Bonds, projected at $874 million, represents the fourth largest issuance of Green Bonds since 2020 in the municipal market.
For more information on the bond sale, please see the Preliminary Offering Statement here.
Creating a more resilient, sustainable future will require businesses, governments and citizens to work together to find innovative solutions. JLL, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority and SunPower are working together in a private-public partnership that will create one of the largest community solar power projects in the U.S. By attaching solar power arrays across 17 acres of its parking lots and garages, Washington Metro can supply 12 MW of clean power to 1,500 homes in the Washington DC area. It will also provide the transit authority with $50 million of revenue over a 25-year period, demonstrating an innovative approach to sustainable solutions. Produced in partnership with JLL.
Metro has reached a deal worth up to $50 million over 25 years with SunPower Corp. and Goldman Sachs Renewable Power LLC (GSRP). The plan is to install solar paneled carports or canopies over surface lots and above parking garages at four rail stations. The four sites will have a combined 12.8 megawatts of electrical capacity, making this the largest community solar project in the National Capital Area and one of the largest in the nation. Under the agreement, SunPower will install photovoltaic solar panels at Anacostia, Cheverly, Naylor Road, and Southern Avenue stations at no cost to Metro. GSRP will own the solar power system and provide annual payments to Metro through 2047. This will ensure a long-term revenue stream that will support our operations. This project advances the region’s sustainability goals while generating revenue to help keep Metro safe and affordable in an increasingly tight-budget environment.
Solar panels capable of powering 1,500 homes will soon be installed at four Metro-owned facilities. In a request for proposals (RFP) issued today, Metro is offering a 15-year solar ground lease to develop and operate solar photovoltaic (PV) power systems on surface and rooftop parking lots at Anacostia, Cheverly, Naylor Road and Southern Avenue stations.
“Offering these Metro-owned sites for use as solar power stations will advance Metro’s commitment to sustainability while generating new revenue to support transit services and keep fares affordable,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Paul J. Wiedefeld.
The solar panels will be owned, operated, installed and maintained by a solar energy provider at no cost to Metro or taxpayers.
Metro’s surface and rooftop parking garages provide optimal exposure for solar power, offering a rare opportunity in the Washington Region to generate up to 15,000,000 kWh of renewable energy annually, enough to power 1,500 single family homes for one year.
Installing new solar canopies will benefit Metro’s parking customers by providing shade and snow protection for the top level of parking garages, along with lighting improvements.
Solar panels are expected to be installed and supplying renewable energy by late 2020 or early 2021.
Additional information can be found at wmata.com/realestate under the “Current Offerings and Solicitations” section. Proposals are due on September 16, 2019.
Metro today announced the launch of a two-year study of the Blue, Orange and Silver lines with the goal of identifying long-term options to improve reliability, meet future ridership demand, and better serve customers.
Today, the Blue, Orange and Silver (BOS) lines all share a single set of tracks between the Rosslyn tunnel and the Anacostia River, creating a bottleneck that limits the number of trains that can cross between Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. The limited capacity means that Metro cannot easily add more trains and has limited ability to work around service disruptions. With the current configuration, a disruption on one line can have a ripple effect on all three lines.
The BOS Study will identify potential infrastructure improvements and service alternatives to resolve these issues.
“Our rebuilding efforts and ongoing preventive maintenance have improved Metro’s reliability to the highest levels in eight years, but it’s time to start thinking about the Blue, Orange and Silver lines’ infrastructure constraints so that Metro is well positioned to serve future generations,” said Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld.
The first phase of the study will assess key issues and trends and document why improvements to the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines are necessary. Subsequent phases will include the development and evaluation of alternatives, as well as a thorough analysis of costs and benefits, with recommendation of a preferred alternative expected to occur by the fall of 2020.
Ultimately, the study will identify and analyze a range of potential alternatives before recommending a “locally preferred alternative” to move forward with federal environmental review, full design, and competition for federal funding. Over the next two years, Metro plans extensive outreach to engage the community, stakeholders, and transit experts to gather feedback and make recommendations.
To learn more about the project and opportunities to get involved, and to track the status of the project, visit the project website at www.wmata.com/BOSstudy.
Metro announced today that it has selected two sites—one in Prince George’s County, Md., and one in Alexandria, Va., as homes for new office buildings that will accommodate the majority of the transit authority’s professional workforce. The announcement is the next major milestone in Metro’s regional office consolidation plan, which will reduce the number of Metro office buildings from 10 to four, saving an estimated $130 million over the next 20 years.
The Prince George’s County location is adjacent to New Carrollton Metrorail Station, and the Alexandria location is near Eisenhower Avenue Station. Both buildings will be new construction on Metro-owned land and will contribute significantly to neighborhood development surrounding the selected sites. The buildings will be designed with the goal of achieving LEED Platinum certification to benefit the environment and reduce long-term operating costs.
The new Maryland and Virginia buildings will join Metro’s future DC headquarters near L’Enfant Plaza as primary office facilities. All three locations are within a five-minute (1,500-foot) walk to the nearest Metro station.
Metro’s New Carrollton office building will be one of three new buildings to be developed by the transit agency’s selected development partner, Urban Atlantic. Urban Atlantic won the rights to develop the New Carrollton station area in 2016 and plans to transform several acres of Metro-owned land into more than two million square feet of usable space. The station is one of the region’s most significant transit hubs and is served by Metro, MARC, multiple local and regional buses, Amtrak and Greyhound, and the future Maryland MTA Purple Line.
“Metro’s selection today of Urban Atlantic’s New Carrollton development for the site of its Maryland headquarters energizes the dramatic transformation of New Carrollton. What had been a functional surface parking lot is now an exciting urban center” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “New Carrollton has unmatched transportation options bringing customers, clients and residents from around the region to Prince George’s County. WMATA’s decision to place its Maryland headquarters in New Carrollton is the spark that will make that location a dynamic 24-hour community.”
The Alexandria office building will be located at 2395 Mill Road, adjacent to the Hoffman Town Center and will become part of the larger redevelopment of the Eisenhower Avenue corridor.
"Metro is a vital component of our region's mobility and economy," said Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson. "We look forward to welcoming hundreds of Metro employees to their new office home in Alexandria."
“Metro’s office consolidation plan is a smart investment in our future that will improve conditions for our workforce while benefitting the region,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Our three new office sites in DC, New Carrollton and Alexandria will save Metro – and taxpayers – significant money in the long term, while spurring additional private development and job creation in the surrounding communities.”
Last fall, Metro announced the selection of L’Enfant Plaza as the location of its new DC headquarters to replace the outmoded Jackson Graham Building (JGB) near Gallery Place. Earlier this month, Metro put the JGB site on the market for a long-term ground lease, a prime opportunity to redevelop the site for future high-density office, residential, hotel or mixed-use development. Metro plans to retain ownership of the property under the long-term lease, meaning any development would have the potential to generate sustained revenue for Metro to support bus and rail operations, help keep fares affordable, and contribute to the transit agency's long-term financial stability.
Metro GM/CEO Paul J. Wiedefeld on March 10, 2018 issued the following statement:
"This morning, the Virginia General Assembly passed historic legislation that will provide, for the first time, a dedicated funding source for Metro’s safety and reliability programs. On behalf of all Metro customers and employees, as well as the communities whose economic wellbeing depends on a safe, reliable Metro system, we are truly grateful."
Metro is inviting employers from DC, Virginia and Maryland to learn how to they can save money on payroll taxes while offering a valuable benefit to their employees through the SmartBenefits® program. On Tuesday, January 30, Metro will host a free SmartBenefits seminar where employers can learn more about the program and get started.
SmartBenefits is Metro's IRS-compliant commuter benefits program that offers employers and employees an opportunity to save thousands of dollars in taxes using pre-tax transit benefit payroll deduction; a direct employer-paid transit benefit; or a combination of the two.
Employers can also use SmartBenefits to comply with the DC Commuter Benefits Law, which requires all employers with 20 or more employees to offer commuter transit benefits.
Unlike other benefits programs, Metro does not charge additional fees to participate in SmartBenefits. Employers may save $400 or more annually in FICA and unemployment taxes for each SmartBenefits participant. Employees who participate can save $1,000 or more in taxes every year.
Signing up is free, and employers only pay for the passes, fares or parking ordered as part of the benefits or payroll-deduction program.
To learn more about SmartBenefits, sign up for Metro's SmartBenefits Seminar:
WHEN: Tuesday, January 30, 2018, 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
WHERE: Metro Headquarters, 600 Fifth St. NW, Washington, DC 20001 (closest Metro stops - Judiciary Sq and Gallery Place)
Interested employers should RSVP to reserve a seat.
For additional information about SmartBenefits and the potential tax advantages visit wmata.com/SmartBenefits.
The benefits of SmartBenefits
Metro makes providing commuting benefits easy with its SmartBenefits program. Employers can save hundreds of dollars on FICA and unemployment benefits per employee.
