transit network of the week . dc metro

the washington metropolitan area transit authority (wmata), more commonly known as the metro, started in 1976. because of the late start date (nyc and boston's subway systems opened in the late 1800's), dc's metrorail subway system has a few defining features: deeper tunnels (to avoid the underground infrastructure built up over the years) and a few forms of advanced technology (built into the system, as opposed to retro-fitting older transit systems). the dc-area metrobus system is decent, with an new up-and-coming brt network just underway, but in this blog, it's all about the rails.

dc's metrorail has the second highest subway ridership in the united states, after new york city. the metro's network consists of 5 subway lines (red, orange, yellow, green, blue), and 85 stations. the station list includes only one of the region's airports (dca--reagan national), but plans for an extension to iad-dulles airport are being discussed. metrorail offers a high number of transfer points on their routes. most of the metrorail stations are similar in appearance, with their unmistakable high arched concrete ceilings.

best thing about the metro:
there are a number of 'best things' about the metro, but i think it can all be summed up in passenger experience. upon entering the station, escalators (almost always in operation) take you down into the deep stations. passengers scan/insert their fare cards upon entry and exit of the stations, thus only being charged for their distance traveled (often cheaper fares), and not a flat rate ($2 in ny and boston). once down on the platform, next-train arrival systems tell passengers in exactly how many minutes they can expect the next trains (also available on the wmata website and on your phone), and flashing platform lights indicate approaching trains. all in all, the technology and ease of travel make for an excellent in-station passenger experience.

worst thing about the metro:
i'm going to have to split the 'worst' title between the often long distances between stations, and the unfortunate retro subway car interiors, with their brownish carpet and red/orange/yellow vinyl seat color scheme. in contrast to the cool architecture and the advanced technology of the stations, it feels as though you're taking a time train right through the 70's once you board the subway car. although--it does remind you of the groovy age in which the system was built.