SafeTrack

About SafeTrack in Takoma Park

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is implementing a plan to repair and improve the Metrorail system called SafeTrack. This program will impact commuters in Takoma Park. This page will serve as a home for Takoma Park specific information and resources while SafeTrack is happening.

SafeTrack Details

From WMATA’s website:

SafeTrack is an accelerated track work plan to address safety recommendations and rehabilitate the Metrorail system to improve safety and reliability.

SafeTrack accelerates three years’ worth of work into approximately one year. The plan significantly expands maintenance time on weeknights, weekends and midday hours and includes 15 “Safety Surges” – long duration track outages for major projects in key parts of the system.

For detailed SafeTrack information visit the SafeTrack section of WMATA’s website.

Safety Surges in Takoma Park

SafeTrack Surge #10

Red Line will be shut down between Fort Totten and NoMa from October 29 through November 22, 2016. Key info from WMATA:

• Two stations will be closed: Brookland-CUA and Rhode Island Ave
• Shuttle buses will replace trains between NoMa and Fort Totten
• Expect crowding on all trains due to less frequent Red Line service
• Green Line provides alternate path for travel between Fort Totten and Gallery Place
• Red Line customers should consider alternate travel options and avoid traveling during rush-hour periods if possible; expect trains to be extremely crowded

More details are available on WMATA’s website.

Resources for Commuters

Riders impacted by single-tracking and closures should visit WMATA’s SafeTrack page closer to the start of the surge projects for more details, including travel alternatives, updated Metrorail schedules, and increased shuttle and/or Metrobus availability. Metrorail and Metrobus riders are also encouraged to sign up for MetroAlerts to receive updated information about service disruptions by text or email. Takoma Park residents who travel to D.C. should also periodically review DDOT’s SafeTrack page for the most up-to-date information on transit alternatives and commuter impacts in D.C.

RideOn, Montgomery County’s transit system, will be increasing bus service for riders impacted by SafeTrack, and is also seeking additional rider input to determine how it can best assist riders throughout the SafeTrack process. MCDOT’s SafeTrack page has comprehensive info.

If possible, riders should consider travelling by bicycle. The Washington Area Bicyclist Association will be offering a variety of classes and convoys to get new riders up to speed. Check their SafeTrack page closer to the start of surge projects for more information. Capital Bikeshare will also be offering $2 single-trip fares for trips under 30 minutes.

Commuter Connections also offers alternatives for getting to and from work.

In Takoma Park

Commuters are encouraged to consider teleworking. The Takoma Park Library and Community Center, as well as many local businesses offer wifi and provide comfortable places from which to work.

Commuters are encouraged to try biking within Takoma Park, to nearby Silver Spring or downtown D.C.

Commuters are encouraged to consider carpooling. During the SafeTrack surges, the parking rates and times at the centrally located City parking lot at Takoma Junction will not be enforced, to enable its use as a carpool lot.