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The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) will study how the various light-rail systems in the Washington, D.C., region can integrate to save money,  increase efficiency and improve customer service.

WMATA is leading a regional coordination effort to ensure riders can readily use the light-rail and streetcar systems when they open and more easily transfer from one system to another, or connect with existing Metrorail and regional bus service. The transit agency is working with project sponsors — including the District of Columbia, Arlington County, Fairfax County, state of Maryland and other jurisdictional partners — on the LRT and Streetcar Interoperability Study.

The jurisdictions that fund WMATA will pay for the $250,000 study, which is scheduled for completion this fall.

Study goals include identifying regional cost savings; efficiencies in maintenance and operations through shared design standards for vehicles, track and structures and traction power; and shared maintenance facilities and practices.

The study will help support future regional network expansion and ensure customer convenience through uniform signage, common fare collection methods and fare media, WMATA officials said in a prepared statement.