During Metro’s Platform Improvement project, in addition to upgrading the platform, the project included upgrading the bus shelters. At the completion of the project, most DASH routes and Metro riders can now enjoy better shelters.
Regrettably, the “temporary” bus stops for Metro Buses 10A/B and one DASH route along Braddock Road…and outside the Metro station proper, have become permanent as of 12/15/19. Those of us who ride these buses are now exposed to whatever winter weather Mother Nature decides to thrust on us.
When I queried Metro about this situation, on 11/15, they responded: “The City of Alexandria has requested that the temporary bus stops on Braddock Road be made permanent as this change saves approximately 3-4 minutes per trip through the area. The City is currently working on upgrading the bus stops on both sides of the street, up to and including shelters, lighting and passenger information systems. Any further questions should be directed to the City of Alexandria T&ES Department.”
When I contacted T&ES, their response was: “We are in the process of designing improvements on Braddock Road and will require the approval of some City officials. We are working as quickly as we can to make these improvements but we do not have a definite schedule as of yet…nor an estimate of when we will have a schedule”.
Since Council is elected at large, rather than by Ward (thanks Dillon Rule), I expect this project doesn’t merit much priority. Perhaps this letter will generate enough interest from the riders, that somehow, we can elevate the need for quick action on this project.
Julie Gentry
Alexandria