WMATA unveiled its new plan, “Momentum,” on Jan. 23, outlining major track renovations and rail expansions into Maryland and Virginia.
The projects will cost WMATA an estimated $1.24 billion total in annual funding over the next 30 years on top of regular maintenance costs, according to Metro officials.
Immediate rebuilding efforts will target the broken escalators and elevators in Metro stations, while replacing nearly 15 miles of rail track, according to a Jan. 28 WMATA report.
By 2040, Metro also wants to create a line of streetcars to H Street and build a new Metro station across the Potomac River in Virginia. The projects are still subject to change, according to the report.
Metro also plans to add express lines to the Orange Line and the new Silver Line to Dulles Airport.
These renovations come as more riders are using the Metro system. A WMATA study revealed 43 percent of metropolitan residents use the rail or bus system to get to work, making the Metro the second-largest transit system and sixth-largest bus system in the country.
lsandoval@theeagleonline.com
