Explore Washington DC subway map, The Washington D.C. Metro, opened in 1976, is the second busiest rapid transit system in the United States, after New York City's subway. Operated by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), it comprises six lines that span over 117 miles of track and serve 91 stations. In 2019, the Metro saw an average of approximately 626,000 weekday trips, highlighting its importance in daily commutes and tourism. The system plays a crucial role in reducing traffic congestion and promoting public transportation in the nation's capital.
Explore the Washington DC subway map showing all stations, interchange stations, parking near metro station and metro lines with color. The subway is a great way to get around Washington, and with this subway map, you can plan your trip around Washington.
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Washington DC Metro
The Washington Metro, officially known as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), is the second-busiest rapid transit system in the United States. It serves the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including parts of Virginia and Maryland. The system is an essential part of the region's public transportation network, facilitating efficient and affordable travel for millions of residents and visitors annually.
Key Facts and Figures
Established: 1976
System Length: 129 miles (208 kilometers)
Number of Lines: 6 (Red, Orange, Blue, Silver, Yellow, Green)
Number of Stations: 97
Daily Ridership: Approximately 600,000 (pre-COVID-19 levels)
Annual Ridership (2022): Over 160 million trips
Operator: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
Metro Lines
Red Line
The Red Line is the longest and busiest line, running from Shady Grove in Maryland to Glenmont in the northeast. It spans 31.9 miles (51.3 kilometers) and has 27 stations.
Orange Line
Connecting Vienna in Virginia to New Carrollton in Maryland, the Orange Line covers 26 miles (42 kilometers) with 26 stations.
Blue Line
The Blue Line serves Franconia-Springfield in Virginia and Largo Town Center in Maryland, running parallel to the Orange Line through downtown Washington, D.C.
Silver Line
The newest line, the Silver Line, connects Washington Dulles International Airport to Largo Town Center, significantly enhancing connectivity in the region. Phase 2 of the Silver Line opened in 2022.
Yellow Line
Primarily serving Virginia and crossing into D.C. via the Potomac River, the Yellow Line connects Huntington to Greenbelt.
Green Line
The Green Line runs from Branch Avenue in Maryland to Greenbelt, primarily serving the southeast region of Washington, D.C.
Infrastructure and Operations
Stations
The Metro's 97 stations are designed with a consistent architectural style featuring coffered ceilings, providing a unique identity. Many stations are multi-level and serve as transfer points between lines.
Trains
The Washington Metro operates a fleet of over 1,200 railcars, with trains running every 6-12 minutes during peak hours and 12-20 minutes during off-peak times. The railcars are equipped with modern features, including automated announcements and real-time displays.
Accessibility
All Metro stations and trains are fully accessible, featuring elevators, escalators, and tactile paving for visually impaired passengers.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Economic Contribution: The Metro supports the regional economy by facilitating access to jobs, businesses, and tourist attractions.
Environmental Benefits: By reducing reliance on private vehicles, the Metro helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion in the region.
Challenges and Modernization
Safety Concerns
In recent years, the Metro has faced safety challenges, including infrastructure maintenance and train reliability. WMATA has implemented a series of safety reforms to address these issues.
Funding
The Metro is funded through a combination of federal, state, and local subsidies, as well as fare revenue. Maintaining financial sustainability remains a critical challenge.
Expansion and Upgrades
WMATA continues to invest in expansion projects, including the recently completed Silver Line extension. Upgrades to rolling stock, signaling systems, and station infrastructure are ongoing.
Connectivity
Airports
The Metro provides direct access to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Yellow and Blue Lines) and Washington Dulles International Airport (Silver Line).
Regional Connectivity
The system connects to commuter rail services like Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and MARC Train, enhancing regional mobility.
Future Outlook
The Washington Metro is poised to remain a cornerstone of the region's transportation network. Continued investment in modernization, safety, and sustainability will ensure that it meets the evolving needs of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Washington DC Metro Rail Routes:
Red Line: Glenmont to Shady Grove Orange Line: New Carrolton to Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Blue Line: Franconia-Springfield to Largo Town Center Green Line: Branch Avenue to Greenbelt Yellow Line: Huntington to Fort Totten Silver Line: Wiehle-Reston East to Largo Town Center.
Opening Dates
Date
Current Lines
Line at Time of Opening
From
To
Miles
Stations
March 27, 1976
Red
Red (service created)
Farragut North
Rhode Island Avenue
4.6
5
December 15, 1976
Red
Red
Intermediate station (Gallery Place)
Intermediate station (Gallery Place)
-
1
January 17, 1977
Red
Red
Farragut North
Dupont Circle
1.1
1
July 1, 1977
Blue, parts of Yellow, Orange, and Silver
Blue (service created)
National Airport
StadiumArmory
11.8
17
February 4, 1978
Red
Red
Rhode Island AvenueBrentwood
Silver Spring
5.7
4
November 17, 1978
Orange, part of Silver
Orange (service created)
StadiumArmory
New Carrollton
7.4
5
December 1, 1979
Orange and Silver
Orange
Rosslyn
BallstonMU
3
4
November 22, 1980
Blue and Silver
Blue
StadiumArmory
Addison Road
3.6
3
December 5, 1981
Red
Red
Dupont Circle
Van NessUDC
2.1
3
April 30, 1983
Yellow, part of Green
Yellow (service created)
Gallery Place
Pentagon
3.3
1
December 17, 1983
Yellow, part of Blue
Yellow
National Airport
Huntington
4.2
4
August 25, 1984
Red
Red
Van NessUDC
GrosvenorStrathmore
6.8
5
December 15, 1984
Red
Red
GrosvenorStrathmore
Shady Grove
7
4
June 7, 1986
Orange
Orange
BallstonMU
Vienna
9
4
September 22, 1990
Red
Red
Silver Spring
Wheaton
3.2
2
May 11, 1991
Yellow and Green
Yellow
Gallery Place
U Street
1.7
3
June 15, 1991
Blue
Blue
King StreetOld Town
Van Dorn Street
3.9
1
December 28, 1991
Green
Green (service created)
L'Enfant Plaza
Anacostia
2.9
3
December 11, 1993
Green
Green (separate segment)
Fort Totten
Greenbelt
7
4
June 29, 1997
Blue
Blue
Van Dorn Street
FranconiaSpringfield
3.3
1
July 25, 1998
Red
Red
Wheaton
Glenmont
1.4
1
September 18, 1999
Green
Green (connecting segments)
U Street
Fort Totten
2.9
2
January 13, 2001
Green
Green
Anacostia
Branch Avenue
6.5
5
November 20, 2004
Red
Red
Infill station (NoMaGallaudet U)
Infill station (NoMaGallaudet U)
-
1
December 18, 2004
Blue and Silver
Blue
Addison Road
Downtown Largo
3.2
2
July 26, 2014
Silver
Silver (service created)
East Falls Church
WiehleReston East
11.6
5
November 15, 2022
Silver
Silver
WiehleReston East
Ashburn
11.4
6
May 19, 2023
Blue and Yellow
Blue and Yellow
Infill station (Potomac Yard)
Infill station (Potomac Yard)
-
1
Date
Number of Trips
January 20, 2009
1,120,000
January 21, 2017
1,001,613
April 2, 2010
891,240
April 1, 2010
877,890
April 10, 2013
871,432
April 7, 2010
867,624
January 19, 2009
866,681
June 8, 2010
856,578
July 11, 2008
854,638
April 8, 2010
852,103
Current Service Patterns of Washington Metrorail
Line Name
Stations
Service Introduced
Distance in Miles
Distance in km
Termini Eastern / Northern
Termini Western / Southern
Red Line
27
March 29, 1976
32
51.3
Glenmont
Shady Grove
Blue Line
28
July 1, 1977
30
48.8
Downtown Largo
Franconia-Springfield
Orange Line
26
November 20, 1978
26
42.5
New Carrollton
Vienna
Silver Line
34
July 26, 2014
41
66.1
Downtown Largo
Ashburn
Green Line
21
December 28, 1991
23
37
Greenbelt
Branch Avenue
Yellow Line
13
March 30, 1983
11
17.2
Mount Vernon Square
Huntington
Stations
Busiest Stations by Total Passenger Entries in a Year
Rank
Station Name
Entries
1
Metro Center
3,929,940
2
Foggy Bottom-GWU
3,742,176
3
Union Station
3,651,760
4
Gallery Place
3,536,641
5
Dupont Circle
2,985,099
6
Farragut North
2,779,479
7
L'Enfant Plaza
2739674
8
Farragut West
2,616,830
9
NoMa-Gallaudet U
2406409
10
Navy Yard-Ballpark
2310236
Washington Metro Rolling Stock
Active Railcars
Series
Manufacturer
Entered Service
Number Purchased
Currently Owned
Currently Active
Retired (estimated)
Planned Replacement
2000
Breda
1,982
76
76
74 (+ 2 for money train)
2024-2025
8000-Series
3000
Breda
1,987
290
284
280
2026-2029
8000-Series
6000
Alstom
2,006
184
184
182 (+ 2 for money train)
7000
Kawasaki
2,015
748
748
748
Future Railcars
Series
Manufacturer
Entered Service (estimated)
Number Purchased
8000
Hitachi
2025
256-800 ( Proposed )
History
The Washington D.C. Metro, officially known as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), began operations on March 27, 1976. This rapid transit system serves the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including parts of Maryland and Virginia, making it a critical infrastructure component for the region. Initially, the Metro opened with a modest 4.6-mile stretch of the Red Line, which ran from Rhode Island Avenue to Farragut North. The system has since expanded significantly, comprising six lines with a total of 91 stations and over 117 miles of track.
The evolution of the Metro system is marked by several key milestones. In 1978, the Blue Line was introduced and later the Orange Line in 1979, further extending the network's reach. The 1990s saw the addition of the Green and Yellow Lines, which helped to better connect the growing suburbs with the urban core. The most recent expansion includes the Silver Line, which commenced operation on July 26, 2014, and added crucial connectivity to the rapidly developing areas west of the District, including Tysons Corner and the Dulles International Airport.
The Metro system is known for its unique architectural design, characterized by Brutalist-style stations featuring vaulted concrete ceilings and expansive underground spaces. This design not only contributes to easy maintenance and security but also provides a distinct visual identity for the system. The Metro's operation and safety measures are facilitated by an Automatic Train Operation (ATO) system, although it also allows for manual control in specific situations.
As of 2021, the WMATA annually handles over 180 million passengers, making it one of the busiest transit systems in the United States. Nonetheless, the Metro has also faced challenges, including aging infrastructure and financial constraints. In response to these issues, the WMATA initiated a comprehensive rehabilitation program known as "SafeTrack" in 2016. This program aimed to address the most pressing maintenance needs, ensuring the long-term safety and reliability of the system.
Funding for the Metro is a collaborative effort, involving federal, state, and local governments. Recently, the Metro Forward initiative sought to secure sustainable funding to support capital improvement projects. Investments from this initiative have been allocated to modernizing rolling stock, enhancing station accessibility, and improving overall system efficiency.
Public trust and operational efficiency remain pivotal for the Washington D.C. Metro. Ongoing efforts are directed toward technological upgrades, such as implementing real-time tracking systems and contactless payment options, which aim to enhance the commuter experience significantly. Furthermore, community engagement initiatives and transparency measures reinforce WMATA's commitment to maintaining its service standards and addressing rider concerns.
Architecture
The Washington D.C. Metro, operated by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), is an integral component of the region’s public transportation system. Officially inaugurated in 1976, this rapid transit system has grown to be the second-busiest in the United States, after the New York City Subway. It boasts six distinct rail lines—Red, Blue, Orange, Silver, Green, and Yellow—spanning a network of 97 stations and over 117 miles of track. The system's architectural and infrastructural design reflects the need for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a model for urban transit systems worldwide.
One of the remarkable aspects of the Metro's architecture is the signature Brutalist design of its underground stations. Designed by architect Harry Weese, these stations feature vaulted ceilings constructed with precast concrete segments, creating a coffered effect that enhances both structural durability and visual uniformity. The unique design serves practical purposes as well; the vaults facilitate air circulation and noise reduction, providing a quieter commuting experience. Furthermore, the coffered patterns allow for even and efficient lighting, thus improving visibility and enhancing passenger safety.
In terms of accessibility, the Metro system has made significant strides over the years. As of 2021, all Metrorail stations are equipped with elevators and escalators to assist passengers with disabilities. Innovations like tactile guide strips and audio announcements ensure that the system is navigable for visually impaired individuals. These features underscore WMATA's commitment to making the Metro inclusive and accessible for all riders.
Safety is another crucial aspect of the Metro's operation. The system's Advanced Rapid Transit technology, initially installed in the 1970s, has been continually upgraded. Modern features include Automatic Train Control (ATC), which improves efficiency and reduces the possibility of human error, and advanced surveillance systems monitoring both the stations and the rolling stock. WMATA has also implemented rigorous maintenance and safety protocols to ensure the smooth operation of the Metro network, maintaining the trust of its daily commuters.
Environmental sustainability is also a focal point for the Metro system. WMATA has launched several initiatives aimed at reducing the system's carbon footprint. These include energy-efficient lighting, regenerative braking systems on trains, and partnerships for purchasing green energy. The Metro's extensive use by daily commuters helps to reduce reliance on automobiles, thereby contributing to lower regional emissions of greenhouse gases.
Ridership data gives an idea of the system's widespread use and importance; prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Metro served an average of 626,000 trips on weekdays. While numbers fluctuated during the pandemic, WMATA has been actively working to restore service levels and ridership through enhanced cleaning protocols and operational adjustments.
Washington D.C. Metro System
The Washington D.C. Metro System, known as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), is a vital part of the transportation infrastructure in the greater D.C. area.
Financing
The Metro system's funding comes from a combination of federal, state, and local sources. As of fiscal year 2021, WMATA's budget was approximately $3.7 billion. Federal contributions include grants for capital improvements, while both Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia contribute subsidies to cover operational expenses. Additionally, fare revenue and bond financing play crucial roles in supporting the system financially.
Infrastructure
The Metro system consists of six rail lines: Red, Blue, Orange, Silver, Green, and Yellow. With over 91 stations and 117 miles of track, it serves the District of Columbia, parts of Maryland, and Virginia. Key infrastructure includes its extensive network of underground tunnels, aerial tracks, and grade-level lines. Maintenance facilities like the Brentwood Yard are instrumental in repairs and rolling stock upkeep.
Rolling Stock
The fleet comprises various series of trains, from the older 1000-series cars to the newer 7000-series. As of 2021, there were around 1,200 rail cars in service. The 7000-series, introduced in 2015, feature cutting-edge technology, improved safety elements, and increased passenger capacity.
Signaling and Operation
Metro uses a combination of Automatic Train Control (ATC) systems and manual operations. ATC manages train scheduling, speed, and intervals, ensuring stringent adherence to safety protocols. The central Operations Control Center (OCC) oversees all train movements, track conditions, and maintenance activities.
Hours and Headways
Metro operates from 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM on weekdays, with extended hours until 1:00 AM on weekends. Headways vary; during peak hours, trains run every 4-8 minutes, while in off-peak times, the interval extends to 12-20 minutes. The system aims to provide frequent service during high-demand periods to facilitate commuter traffic efficiently.
Special Service Patterns
Special service patterns include short-turn trains and express services during events or emergencies. For example, during the Cherry Blossom Festival, additional trains are deployed to accommodate increased passenger demand.
Rush Plus
Introduced in 2012, Rush Plus aimed to alleviate congestion on Metro lines by adding more trains on heavily-used routes during peak times. Although the program officially ended in 2020, its principles continue to influence current operational strategies.
Passenger Information Systems
The Metro features real-time information systems, including digital displays at stations and mobile apps, providing updates on train arrivals, delays, and service changes. These systems are designed to improve the overall passenger experience by keeping riders informed and reducing uncertainty.
The Washington D.C. Metro System continues to evolve, adapting to the region's growing transportation needs while focusing on safety, efficiency, and rider satisfaction. Adopting new technologies, upgrading old infrastructure, and securing adequate financing remain central to its mission of serving the people of the greater D.C. area.
Fare Structure
The Washington, D.C. Metro System, operated by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), employs a distance-based fare structure that varies by both the length of the trip and the time of day. This fare model allows for a flexible pricing approach aimed at managing congestion and providing equitable access to transportation services.
Base Fare and Peak Times
The base fare for a Metro ride starts at $2.00 during non-peak hours and can go up to a maximum of $6.00 during peak times. Peak hours are defined as weekdays from opening until 9:30 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. During these periods, fares are generally higher to reflect increased demand.
Distance-Based Fares
The fare structure also incorporates the distance traveled. Shorter trips, which are under three miles, usually incur the lowest fares, while longer trips that span the entirety of the Metro system can reach the maximum fare. The fare for a specific trip can be calculated using the WMATA fare calculator, which takes into account both the distance and the time of travel.
Pass Options
WMATA offers several pass options to accommodate frequent travelers. These include:
One-Day Pass: Priced at $13.00, it provides unlimited rides for a 24-hour period.
7-Day Short Trip Pass: Available for $36.00, it covers trips that cost up to $3.85 each. For longer trips, the difference must be paid.
7-Day Unlimited Pass: At $58.00, this pass allows for unlimited travel over seven consecutive days, inclusive of peak travel times.
Reduced Fares
WMATA provides discounted fares for seniors, people with disabilities, and Medicare recipients. These patrons can benefit from a reduced base fare of $1.00 during non-peak hours and $2.00 during peak periods. Furthermore, children under the age of five can travel for free when accompanied by a paying adult.
SmartBenefits Program
The SmartBenefits program is another integral part of the fare structure, allowing employers to provide tax-free transit benefits to their employees. Funds are electronically loaded onto SmarTrip cards, which can then be used to pay for Metro fares, further simplifying the commuting process for many workers in the D.C. area.
Cost and Utility
The fare structure of the Washington, D.C. Metro System is designed to optimize both operational efficiency and rider convenience. By correlating fares with travel distance and time of day, WMATA is able to manage passenger flow effectively and ensure the sustainability of its services. With various pass options and discounts available, the Metro system remains accessible to a diverse range of passengers, thereby supporting the public transportation needs of the region.
For additional details on fare calculations and real-time updates, riders are encouraged to visit the official WMATA website or use the WMATA mobile application.
Safety and Security
The safety and security of the Washington D.C. Metro system are managed with diligence and precision, aiming to ensure the well-being of all passengers. The Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. Established in 1976, the MTPD is dedicated to preventing and responding to crime within the Metro system, including trains, buses, and related facilities. This specialized law enforcement agency comprises over 500 officers, each trained to handle various transit-related emergencies and security scenarios.
According to recent data, the MTPD undertakes numerous initiatives to bolster safety. One such initiative is the deployment of uniformed officers and plainclothes detectives across the network to deter crime and provide a rapid response when incidents occur. The department also employs advanced surveillance technology, with over 30,000 cameras installed system-wide to monitor activities and gather critical evidence. Additionally, the MTPD collaborates closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to address broader security threats, ensuring a comprehensive approach to public safety.
Statistical reports indicate that crime rates within the Washington D.C. Metro system have shown a downward trend in recent years, reflecting the effectiveness of these measures. For instance, Metro's 2022 annual crime report highlighted a significant reduction in major crimes, including theft and assault, compared to previous years. Furthermore, the introduction of public awareness campaigns and the SeeSay app empowers riders to report suspicious activities and emergencies, fostering a community-oriented approach to safety.
Future Expansion
The Washington D.C. Metro system, managed by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), is slated for significant expansions in the coming years. These enhancements aim to improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and support the growing population of the D.C. metropolitan area.
Planned or Proposed Projects
Silver Line Extension
The Silver Line, which currently stretches from Wiehle-Reston East to Largo Town Center, is undergoing further extension. Phase 2 will extend services to Washington Dulles International Airport and beyond to Ashburn in Loudoun County. This project, crucial for mitigating traffic on busy highways and supporting economic growth in the region, is projected to complete in mid-2022.
Purple Line
Although not directly part of the Metro system, the Purple Line is a light rail system that will connect Bethesda in Montgomery County to New Carrollton in Prince George's County. This 16.2-mile line will integrate with Metro's Red, Green, and Orange Lines, enhancing regional connectivity. Construction is ongoing, aiming for completion by 2023.
Blue Line Loop Proposal
There are discussions around creating a new loop for the Blue Line to address capacity issues and improve service reliability. This loop would connect the Pentagon, Rosslyn, Georgetown, and Union Station, providing a direct link between these high-demand areas. This project is in the proposal stage and would require extensive planning and funding before implementation.
Line Extensions
Green Line Extension
Proposals are under review to extend the Green Line northward from Greenbelt into the northeastern Prince George's County. This could improve accessibility to the University of Maryland and surrounding communities.
Yellow Line Extension
Similar plans are in consideration for extending the Yellow Line southward into Virginia, possibly reaching Hybla Valley. This would offer more robust connections for communities along the Route 1 corridor and support future development.
Individual and Infill Stations
Potomac Yard Station
Located between the Braddock Road and National Airport stations on the Yellow and Blue lines, Potomac Yard is expected to open in 2022. This station will serve the rapidly developing Potomac Yard area, providing convenient transit access to new residential, retail, and office spaces.
New Carrollton Development
Efforts are underway to further develop the New Carrollton station area. Plans include new office buildings, residential units, and retail spaces to create a transit-oriented community, enhancing the accessibility and attractiveness of living and working in the vicinity.
Related Non-WMATA Projects
Maryland's I-270 and I-495
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has initiated a project to widen portions of the I-270 and I-495 highways. This will include express lanes to mitigate congestion and improve the overall flow of traffic, complementing Metro services by providing better road infrastructure for commuters.
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
Several BRT projects are in the works, notably in Montgomery County along the Route 29 corridor and in Northern Virginia along Route 7. These projects aim to provide high-frequency bus services, paralleling Metro lines to offer additional transit options and reduce reliance on cars.
The strategic expansion of the Washington D.C. Metro along with complementary projects is crucial for addressing current transit challenges and preparing for future growth. These developments not only aim to enhance commuter experience but also support sustainable urban growth and economic prosperity in the region.
