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With the start of a new year just around the corner, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has established its 2006 goals and plans.

The authority plans to take delivery of 110 new passengers cars from ALSTOM Transport and continue upgrading traction power, which will enable WMATA to operate eight-car trains on 20 percent of its system by December 2006. The agency also will continue taking delivery of modernized passenger cars, finish improving the Ballston Metrorail station and begin constructing new parking facilities at the Glenmont and Huntington stations.

In the customer service department, WMATA will implement a Web-based complaint-handling system and automated switchboard. The authority also will establish a correspondence team to handle executive-level telephone calls, email and written correspondence in a timely manner. In addition, WMATA will create a customer service quality assurance team to oversee phone, email and written correspondence with customers.

To generate more revenue, the authority will add advertising displays inside Metrorail tunnels, and develop a plan to install video monitors inside trains and buses.

Other goals include continuing to improve managerial and organizational performance and accountability, and establishing a new Office of the Inspector General.