NARP Calls for Increased Funding, Transparency from D.C. Metro Following 29-Hour Shutdown

For Immediate Release (#16-03)

March 15, 2016

Contact: Robert Brady

(202) 680-4951

Washington, D.C. – The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s decision to shut down Metro for 29 hours represents the agency’s desire to put safety first for passengers and the agency’s employees. However, it also represents an unstable environment, in which D.C.’s transportation system is constantly at risk of breaking down and putting passengers in harm’s way – highlighted by Monday’s fire, as well as the fire at L’Enfant Plaza in January 2015. The confusion surrounding Metro’s actions underscores the need for appropriate transparency from Metro to passengers, and the involvement of stakeholder groups in resolving these issues. It also highlights the importance of sustainable levels of funding for the Metro system so these problems can be addressed now and prevented in the future.

About the National Association of Railroad Passengers

NARP is the only national organization speaking for the nearly 40 million users of passenger trains and rail transit. We have worked since 1967 to expand the quality and quantity of passenger rail in the U.S. Our mission is to work towards a modern, customer-focused national passenger train network that provides a travel choice Americans want. Our work is supported by more than 28,000 individual members nationwide.

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