WASHINGTON — Metro is increasing the frequency of its Red Line service in order to relieve crowding during weekday rush hours.
Beginning Monday, Red Line trains will arrive every six minutes during the busiest times of week from 6-9 a.m. and 3-7 p.m.
The change will help relieve crowding during rush hours when Red Line trains are at or near capacity.
During the week from 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., officials say most trains between Union Station and Metro Center have more than 90 people packed in each railcar, with some trains reaching 150 passengers per car.
Outside of peak periods, Red Line trains will continue to run every eight minutes during the daytime and evening hours, and every 10 minutes after 9:30 p.m. seven days a week.
"We are looking at every opportunity to make our service even better for customers with more frequent, safe and reliable options," said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. "Our teams are working hard every day to improve your Metro service and provide a world-class transit experience for customers in the region."
The improvements come as Metro advances the final version of its 7000-series Return to Service Plan.
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