WMATA seeks public input on proposed FY2020 budget

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is seeking public feedback on its proposed $3.4 billion capital and operating budget for fiscal-year 2020. The new fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30, 2020.

The authority has scheduled three open houses and public meetings on Jan. 29, 30 and 31. In addition, members of the public can provide comments on the budget online, in person or by mail through Feb. 5.

The budget proposal commits the authority to expand rush hours, extend service on the Yellow and Red lines, and enhance the value of unlimited rail and bus passes, WMATA officials said in a press release. It would include $1.4 billion for safety and reliability improvements, system rebuilding efforts, and measures to improve the effectiveness of the current rail and bus network.

Several key initiatives under budget consideration include:
• expanding weekday rush hours to provide more frequent service later in the morning and evening;
• extending service on the Yellow Line to Greenbelt instead of Fort Totten or Mt. Vernon Square;
• extending all Red Line trains to Glenmont during weekday rush hours and weekends;
• operating only eight-car trains; and
• implementing a $2 weekend flat fare on Metrorail, excluding special events.