WMATA Bus Route Detours for Smithsonian Folklife Festival
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has announced temporary detours for several bus routes due to the 2024 Smithsonian Folklife Festival. The detour will be in effect from Saturday, June 29 at 11:00 am through Sunday, June 30 at 8:00 pm. The affected routes include 32, 36, and P6.
Passengers are advised to:
- Allow additional travel time.
- Avoid the area if possible.
Street Closure Details:
- Jefferson Drive, NW between 3rd Street and 4th Street, NW.
Metro has announced several service adjustments for the Metrorail system until Friday, June 28.
Red Line
- Service Changes:
- Free shuttle buses will replace trains between Fort Totten and Glenmont stations.
- Stations closed: Glenmont, Wheaton, Forest Glen, Silver Spring, and Takoma.
- Normal service will continue between Shady Grove and Fort Totten.
- Reason for Service Changes:
- The maintenance work includes replacing switch machines and interlockings, renewing ties and fasteners, repairing grout pads, leak mitigation, installing digital screens, replacing power cables, and conducting safety repairs and maintenance.
Blue, Silver, and Orange Lines
- Service Changes:
- Trains will single track between Federal Center SW and Eastern Market after 10 p.m. from Monday to Thursday.
- Trains will run every 18 minutes during the single tracking period.
- Normal service will operate until 10 p.m. and all day Friday.
- Reason for Service Changes:
- Track work includes similar maintenance and upgrades as the Red Line to ensure safe and reliable service.
Yellow and Green Lines
- Service Changes:
- Normal service will be maintained throughout the week.
Key Points for Riders
- Free Shuttle Buses: Available for Red Line passengers between Fort Totten and Glenmont.
- Single Tracking: Expect delays and plan for additional travel time on the Blue, Silver, and Orange Lines after 10 p.m.
- Station Closures: Be aware of closed stations on the Red Line and plan alternative routes accordingly.
MTA Service Adjustments Starting July 1, 2024
The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has announced that starting July 1, 2024, there will be a reduction in frequencies across all 36 Commuter Bus routes. This adjustment aims to connect riders from the suburbs to job centers in the metropolitan Baltimore and Washington region while aligning with updated commuting patterns and ridership levels.
Key Changes Include:
- Reduced Frequencies: All 36 routes will retain service but at reduced frequencies.
- Unchanged Service Span: The current span of service hours and geographic coverage will remain the same.