Normal Green and Pink Line service now expected to resume later this week

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced today that Lake Street Bridge west leaf replacement work will require additional time beyond the previously announced completion timeframe of 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28. Temporary CTA Green and Pink Line service changes will remain in place, with normal service now expected to resume later this week. CDOT will provide a specific date and time once confirmed.

CDOT apologizes to transit riders for the added delay and inconvenience. Crews continue working to complete the connections and alignments between the new bridge leaf and the existing bridge infrastructure. To accommodate this work, the temporary service adjustments previously established for Green and Pink line trains will remain in place:

• Green Line: Trains will continue operating in two segments—between Harlem/Lake and Clinton, and between Clark/Lake and South Side terminals. Bus shuttles will carry passengers between Clinton and Clark/Lake stations
• Pink Line: Trains will continue operating between 54th/Cermak and the Racine Blue Line station, where passengers can transfer to Blue Line trains to reach downtown. Pink Line trains will not operate around the Loop elevated structure.

CDOT appreciates the continued patience of Chicago commuters, residents and business owners as crews work to safely complete this essential bridge infrastructure project.

For real-time CTA service alerts and travel guidance, visit transitchic​ago.com. For additional updates on city bridge construction projects, visit Chicago.gov/CDOT.

New elevators and a modern, accessible entrance will ensure access for those who use mobility devices and latest project to advance under CTA’s All Stations Accessibility Program

The Chicago Transit Board today approved the awarding of a construction contract for modernization and accessibility improvements at the California Blue Line station, with construction set to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027. Today’s board action marks another milestone in the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) commitment to the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) – moving the agency closer to its goal of making the entire system 100% accessible to riders with disabilities.

“An accessible CTA gives more people the freedom to travel independently and connects them to everything our region has to offer,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “This investment will bring that promise to life at the California Blue Line station, delivering a modern, welcoming station that better serves riders with disabilities and the entire community."

Originally constructed in 1895 and renovated in 2015, the California Blue Line station is one of the busier stations along the line with more than 1.125 million entries in 2025. Following a competitive procurement process, F.H. Paschen, S.N. Nielsen & Associates, LLC, was selected to lead the overhaul of the facility located at 2211 N. California Ave.

The comprehensive station upgrade will feature:

• Two new elevators serving the inbound and outbound platforms.
• New stairs, accessible doors.
• Updated signage and wayfinding.
• Platform and canopy extensions, with related adjustments to lighting, railings and windbreaks.
• Improvements to sidewalks, ramps, drainage and landscaping.

To maintain access to rail services during construction, crews will build a temporary stationhouse and entrance at St. George’s Court for riders to use while work proceeds on the permanent, accessible entrance.

The overall value of the contract is not to exceed $39.9 million and will be funded through a combination of Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and City of Chicago Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds.

Currently, CTA operates a 100% accessible bus and rail fleet and 110 of CTA’s 146 rail stations are fully accessible, or 75% percent of our rail system stations, which is among the highest for legacy transit systems in the U.S.

Released in 2018, CTA’s ASAP Strategic Plan serves as a blueprint for making all rail stations fully accessible by 2038. The California station is among 15 stations that have either recently opened or are currently funded and in various stages of planning, design or construction under the initiative.

Project Renderings

25th Elevator Replacement Completed in 2026

Accessibility Upgrades Provide Safer and More Reliable Elevator Service

See Photos of the Elevator

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced the opening of a modernized elevator serving the Coney Island-Stillwell Av station in Brooklyn as part of larger accessibility and safety upgrades. The elevators opened on budget. Regular replacements are crucial to keep the system running effectively and efficiently resulting in less repairs and fewer disruptions needed later. This is the 25th elevator replacement completed in 2026, the second highest number of replacements completed in a single year in MTA history after the MTA broke the record last year.

The elevator at Coney Island-Stillwell Av serves the platform to the line overpass. The station serves almost 9,000 riders every weekday. The elevator design-builder is Forte Gramercy JV. The elevator installer is Mid- America.

“The elevator replacement at Coney Island–Stillwell Av – our 25th completed just this year – is more proof of our commitment to improve accessibility across the system,” said MTA Construction and Development President Jamie Torres-Springer. “We’re completing projects at major transit hubs like this one better, faster, and cheaper than ever before, delivering the reliable and accessible transit system our riders depend on.”

“Modernized elevators provide more reliable, accessible transit for caregivers with strollers, older adults, and people with disabilities,” said MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo. “We’re building a subway system that is more accessible, equitable, and welcoming for all New Yorkers.”

Work involved in the elevator replacement included:

• Full replacement of elevator cab and associated equipment within the cab, shaft, and pit, along with new replaced elevator head house glass and canopy at street level.

• Modifications to the shaft and pit needed to accommodate new equipment. Equipment updates ensure the elevator ride is smoother and the elevator is more reliable in the future.

• Replacement and modernization of all elevator machine room, electrical and mechanical equipment for better and more reliable service.

• Upgrades to the remote monitoring equipment, fire alarm system, intercom system and cameras to enhance security and allow crews to respond more quickly and precisely if an elevator goes out of service.

There are now 164 fully accessible stations across the MTA, including 49 made accessible since 2020. As part of its long-term commitment to systemwide accessibility, the MTA is investing nearly $7.1 billion in station accessibility through the 2025-2029 Capital Plan to make at least 60 stations newly ADA-accessible.

The MTA currently has elevator replacement projects in progress in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. Details can be found here.

Muni’s Track Maintenance staff is power washing boarding platforms along the T Third corridor this fall as part of a new overnight maintenance program. 

While the city sleeps, the streets take on a quiet calmness. Meanwhile, Muni’s Track Maintenance team is wide awake.

You may not see them, but their work benefits your ride.

Building on the success of Fix It! Weekends this summer, we have developed a proactive maintenance program for the T Third focused on corridor upkeep and reliability. Overnight maintenance work we’re doing along the line includes:

•    Regular inspecting and cleaning
•    Maintenance of the platforms, transit shelters, gates, rail infrastructure and other rider amenities  

This is all happening through November 2026 in a continued effort to provide a clean, safe and reliable ride. The work is scheduled between midnight and 5 a.m. to minimize impacts on riders and the community. Owl service is not affected. 

A member of Muni’s Track Maintenance staff power washes the top of the shelter at the southbound Carroll T Third stop on Oct. 6, 2026.

In the early hours of a recent Tuesday morning, an agency crew thoroughly power washed the platform and shelter at the southbound Carroll Avenue T Third stop.

“When people wake up, it’s clean,” said Track Maintenance Supervisor Kirk Lauti. “It always feels good putting a smile on people's faces when they start or end their day."

Overnight T Third Maintenance and Cleaning Schedule

Our work this year on the T Third stops at Carroll, Evans, Revere/Shafter, Le Conte and Sunnydale has been completed.

The remaining tentatively scheduled overnight maintenance for 2026 is as follows:  

   • Williams Northbound stop, Oct. 20
   • Williams Southbound stop, Oct. 27
   • Gilman Northbound stop, Nov. 3
   • Gilman Southbound stop, Nov. 10
   • Arleta Northbound stop, Nov. 17
   • Arleta Southbound stop, Nov. 18

Future maintenance work at Hudson, Kirkwood and Sunnydale will be scheduled soon. 

A clean platform is a safe platform, and it’s what our riders deserve.

T Third Fix -It! Weekends in July Deliver Upgrades

In July 2026, we completed the first-ever Fix It! Weekends focused on the T Third. Our crews worked with partner agencies on critical repairs, upgrades and cleaning.

The coordinated effort focused on the route between Evans Avenue and Sunnydale over two weekends.

Train service was temporarily replaced by bus service on the line, giving crews uninterrupted access to the tracks and platforms to complete work simultaneously.

Coordinating projects over two weekends improved efficiency. It also reduced the need for repeated disruptions and enabled repairs that keep the T Third operating safely and reliably.

Key accomplishments from the July Fix It! Weekends for the T Third included:

•    Completion of the corridor’s scheduled Federal Railroad Administration insulation resistance testing
•    Upgrades to 23 track circuit box covers
•    Upgrading and replacing worn signal components of 184 traffic signal heads and replacement of more than 400 individual LEDs 
•    Replacement of four overhead line breakers
•    Completion of multiple rail repairs and rail tie replacements 
•    Rehabilitation of three station platforms

Check out the project update webpage to learn more about our upcoming T Third maintenance.

And to learn more about the Fix It! Week program, in general, visit our Rail Work webpage (SFMTA.com/RailWork).

Regular maintenance keeps Muni in a state of good repair. And that makes your ride safer, cleaner and more reliable.  

Funding will Support Street, School-Zone Safety Improvements, Better Walking, Biking Connections

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) Board of Directors has approved nearly $119 million in Measure M and Measure R programming through the agency’s annual subregional funding process, advancing transportation projects in the North County and South Bay subregions.

Separately from the annual subregional programming actions, the Board also approved up to $35 million in additional Measure M funding for the Shoreline Drive Realignment Project in Long Beach. The additional funding will also help the City of Long Beach preserve a $30 million federal Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program award for the project.

“Measures R and M continue to deliver on voters’ vision by providing communities throughout Los Angeles County with targeted investments that improve safety, connectivity, and mobility,” said Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles City Mayor Karen Bass. “These multimodal improvements are helping local jurisdictions upgrade traffic signals, enhance pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and support transit-friendly elements that benefit everyone who travels in our region.”

The investments will support a broad range of locally identified transportation priorities, including safer streets and crossings, bicycle and pedestrian improvements, transit access, traffic signal upgrades, mobility hubs and roadway improvements.

“To ensure a more connected and resilient transportation network, we must invest in improvements that reduce congestion, enhance multimodal access, and make streets safer for everyone,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “This funding demonstrates Metro’s ongoing commitment to supporting local partners and delivering tangible transportation benefits across Los Angeles County.”

North County Subregion

The Board approved an additional $5.18 million in Measure M funding for the North County subregion’s Active Transportation Program. The funding supports two new projects and schedule adjustments for two existing projects.

New investments include $4.91 million for the Equitable Complete Streets for Challenger Way Corridor project in Lancaster. The project will add wider protected bikeways, a landscaped raised median, additional street lighting where needed and pavement rehabilitation.

The Board also approved $270,000 for a Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Safety Detection project in Santa Clarita. The project will use cameras at strategic locations to improve trail-user safety and collect additional information about trail use. The system will also communicate with traffic signals to improve signal timing when cyclists are detected.

The North County action also reprograms previously approved funding for pedestrian and bicycle improvements in Lake Los Angeles and along 30th Street West in Lancaster.

South Bay Subregion

The Board approved approximately $114.7 million in additional Measure M and Measure R funding for 23 projects across the South Bay through the region’s Measure M Multi-Year Subregional Programs and Measure R South Bay Transit Investments Program.

The funding will advance projects in communities throughout the South Bay, including Hawthorne, Inglewood, the City of Los Angeles, Lomita, Torrance, Redondo Beach and other jurisdictions.

Projects receiving Measure M funding include:

• Hawthorne Mobility Hub, a new two-story, 400-space parking structure designed to serve as a park-and-ride facility near major bus and Metro routes.
• Aviation Boulevard improvements in Inglewood, including corridor improvements between Arbor Vitae Street and Manchester Boulevard, strengthening pedestrian connectivity and enhancing connections to Metro’s LAX/Metro Transit Center and Westchester/Veterans K Line stations.
• San Pedro pedestrian improvements, including crosswalks, pedestrian lighting, curb extensions, ADA-compliant curb ramps and bicycle facilities.
• Avalon Promenade and Gateway, constructing a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle bridge over active freight railroad tracks and approximately 12 acres of adjacent public open space.
• Lomita Boulevard Grade Separation, designed to divert commercial truck traffic from residential streets in East Wilmington.
• Torrance School Safety and Accessibility improvements, including new sidewalks, pedestrian signals, high-visibility crossings and bicycle facilities around three elementary schools.
• Torrance Fiber Network and Traffic Signal Optimization, which will expand fiber-optic communications and modernize traffic signal operations.
• Traffic signal, pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements in communities throughout the South Bay.

The South Bay action also includes $4 million in Measure R funding for the Victoria Transit Center in Carson, supporting a mobility hub that will connect bus service with bicycle facilities, pedestrian paths, rideshare, parking and shuttle services.

Together, the annual Measure M actions approved by the Board will advance transportation investments identified by local communities across Los Angeles County, with an emphasis on improving safety, mobility, accessibility and connections among transportation modes.

In support of October as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, the MBTA in partnership with the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) today announced that Park Street Station will be transformed into “Bark Street Station” on Thursday, October 29, from 4 PM to 6 PM for an afternoon of four-legged fun.

“Whether you're passing through on your commute or stopping by specifically for the event, come celebrate our furry friends with us!” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “This partnership is a great opportunity to provide a little fun to our community of riders while also supporting the incredible work of the Animal Rescue League of Boston. We thank them for partnering with us on this station transformation, and invite everyone to Bark Street on October 29!”

“Every animal deserves a loving home, and Adopt a Shelter Dog Month is an important reminder of the many wonderful animals waiting for their second chance,” said Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston. “We are thrilled to partner with the MBTA to bring Bark Street Station to life and connect with the community in such a fun and unique way. Whether you’re a daily commuter or stopping by to say hi, we hope this event inspires more people to consider adoption and discover the many ways they can make a difference in the lives of animals in need.”

Outside Park Street this Thursday, riders and the public are invited to meet and interact with special canine guests (including those previously adopted through ARL), learn about animals seeking their forever homes, and discover ways to support ARL through adoption, fostering, volunteering, and more.  

MetroWest K-9 Services, the Burlington Police Department, Berklee College of Music Police Department, Northeastern University Police Department, and Boston K9 LLC will also have therapy dogs onsite to interact with riders.  

The Bark Street transformation is part of the MBTA’s year-long celebration leading up to the 130th anniversary of America’s first subway, which opened in 1897. Other celebratory efforts include special historical social media videos being released throughout the year, which can be found on:

• YouTube
• Facebook
• TikTok

About The Animal Rescue League of Boston

Pets are family. This belief is at the heart of everything the Animal Rescue League of Boston does. ARL is the first female-founded animal welfare organization in Massachusetts and is proud to carry on a legacy of kindness and compassion, helping more than 20,000 animals annually since 1899. Recognized for innovative, award-winning programs that go beyond sheltering, ARL addresses the root causes of the issues facing animals and the people who love them. By partnering with communities, ARL helps animals heal and thrive, keeps pets and people together, and protects animals from harm. Because there is no government funding for this important work, animals must rely on people like you to get the care they need, when they need it most, 365 days a year. For more information, visit arlboston.org and follow ARL on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

All Branches to Receive Schedule Adjustments

Off-Peak Trains Will Leave Earlier to Assist in Track Maintenance and Station Accessibility Projects

Customers Encouraged to Check Their Routes in the TrainTime App

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced that the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) will institute new service changes beginning Monday, Nov. 9, on all 11 branches. The LIRR announced that some midday weekday and weekend trains will leave earlier to assist in the advance of track maintenance and station accessibility projects. No rush hour trains will be affected by the service changes.

All train lines will experience service changes. Trains not listed below may still be affected. Riders are advised to check their routes using the TrainTime app.

Babylon Branch

Beginning Saturday, Nov. 14, for weekend trains and Monday, Nov. 23, for weekday trains, Babylon Branch service will be restored to what it was prior to the Babylon station reconstruction project.

• Direct service from stations east of Massapequa to Grand Central will be restored.
• There will be two local trains per hour between Manhattan and Babylon: one serving Penn Station and one serving Grand Central.
• Express trains between Babylon and Penn Station will only run to connect with Montauk Branch trains, and will only stop at Jamaica, Freeport, and Babylon.

A special midday weekday schedule will be in effect Nov. 9 through Nov. 20 for track work between Amityville and Lindenhurst. Check the Planned Work lookup tool for details and updates.

Hempstead Branch
The 6:34 a.m. train from Westbury to Penn Station will no longer stop at Elmont-UBS Arena.

Montauk Branch
The 5:47 a.m. train from Speonk to Long Island City will now originate in Hampton Bays at 5:30 a.m. This will provide an additional morning travel option for riders at Hampton Bays and Westhampton.

Port Jefferson Branch
To provide additional capacity to and from events, a new weekend local train to Penn Station will leave Hicksville at 4:33 p.m. A return trip will leave Penn Station at 10:02 p.m.

Ronkonkoma Branch
The 6:27 a.m. train from Ronkonkoma to Grand Central will run two minutes earlier.

Greenport Service

Midday weekday train service east of Ronkonkoma will resume starting Nov. 23.

City Terminal Zone
The 7:18 p.m. train from Grand Central to Long Beach will leave one minute earlier and add a stop at Kew Gardens.

Brooklyn Service
Midday weekday service between Jamaica and Atlantic Terminal has been restored to operate every 20 minutes.

Ways to Stay Informed
The MTA offers customers a variety of ways to receive real-time and planned service change information including:

mta.info – The definitive source for real-time arrival information and service change information for each line or route in the MTA system. Customers can find current statuses on mta.info and upcoming planned service changes using the lookup tool at mta.info/alerts.

TrainTime app – A highly rated app for LIRR and Metro-North Railroad customers that allows users to buy tickets, view departure times, plan trips, get real-time service updates, check seat availability and train configuration for easier boarding and exiting, and chat live with a customer service representative.

Email & Text Alerts – Customers can sign up for email and SMS alerts tailored to their specific commutes and travel times. Sign up here.

511– Customers who prefer to contact the MTA by telephone, information is available by dialing 511. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use their preferred service provider for the free 711 relay to reach the MTA at 511.

Major Felonies Down 20.1 Percent Year to Date; Lowest in Last Four Years and Second Year of Double-Digit Declines

Assaults Against MTA Rail Workers and Police Officers Down 55 Percent Since 2023

MTA has Increased Investment in Security Measures, Including Added Police Patrols on Commuter Trains and Expansion of Surveillance Camera Networks

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a significant reduction in crime on the Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North Railroad and Staten Island Railway, which are patrolled by the MTA Police Department (MTAPD). Major felonies, including burglary, felony assault, grand larceny, and robbery dropped a combined 20.1 percent in the first eight months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. Felony crime on the commuter railroads and the Staten Island Railway is the lowest in four years, and 2026 is on track for a second year of double-digit decreases in major crime, with a 16.4 percent drop reported in the first eight months of 2025.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe is my highest priority as governor, and thanks to smart investments in the MTAPD, our commuter railroads have seen historic reductions in crime this year,” Governor Hochul said. “With growing ridership, the LIRR and Metro-North are engines of the entire state’s economy, and it is essential that the hundreds of thousands of riders who rely on rail service to get around travel safely. By investing in law enforcement and critical tools like better security cameras, we are accomplishing just that.”

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, "Survey after survey, riders tell us safety is their number one issue. Governor Hochul listened and responded with funding interventions – more cops, more security cameras, more mental health outreach -- that have delivered real results.”

Four major crime categories on the LIRR, Metro-North and Staten Island Railway have seen double-digit drops in the first eight months of 2026, compared to the first eight months of 2024 including a 50 percent drop in burglary, 18.1 percent drop in grand larcenies, a 42.9 percent drop in grand larceny auto in station parking lots and a 39.3 percent drop in robberies. There have been no reported rapes on the LIRR, Metro-North or SIR since 2023.

Additionally, crimes committed against LIRR and Metro-North employees and the MTA Police Officers who patrol those systems are the lowest levels since 2023, with a total of just 107 in 2026, down 55.4 percent compared with the 240 reported during the first eight months of 2024, and down 10.8 percent from the 120 reported during the first eight months of last year. In 2022, Governor Hochul signed legislation that toughened state laws on transit employee assaults, protecting an additional 11,000 MTA employees, including numerous commuter railroad employees, from attacks and harassment.

MTA Police Department Chief Thomas Taffe said, “This historic reduction in crime across the Long Island Rail Road, Metro‑North, and Staten Island Railway is the direct result of the steadfast support provided by Governor Hochul and Chairman Lieber, and the hard work and dedication of the men and women of the MTAPD. This progress reflects a shared commitment to protecting our riders and employees and demonstrates what is possible when resources and leadership are aligned in support of public safety.”

Metro-North President Justin Vonashek said, “Metro-North places customer safety at the forefront of all our decisions. Crime is plummeting on our railroad thanks to smart security investments, and I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued support and commitment to keeping the region secure.”

Long Island Rail Road President Rob Free said, “The investments we have made in safety upgrades, from adding panoramic cameras to increasing fare evasion enforcement, are part of the reason why crime continues to drop on the LIRR. And it shows in our customer satisfaction surveys, where our safety ratings are consistently in the 80 to 90 percent range.”

NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow said, “Investments like modern rail cars equipped with security cameras and brighter LED lights in Staten Island Railway stations combined with a talented and dedicated police force in the MTAPD have resulted in a safer system for Staten Islanders. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her continued support to ensure transit continues to be a safe, reliable, and efficient way for New Yorkers to get where they need to go.”

This drop in major crime is the result of increased investment in safety initiatives on the commuter railroads and Staten Island Railway. The LIRR and Metro-North both recently implemented the Joint Security Strategy, which modernizes how critical information is delivered to train crews. Crew members now have tablets and cellular ticketing devices that allow information to be shared instantly, including lists of persistent fare evaders, individuals who may have committed crimes against employees or the railroad, and missing-persons alerts.

Having access to real-time information has assisted in the apprehensions of suspects wanted for assaults and harassment complaints and has strengthened railroad employee confidence during fare disputes and security-sensitive situations. The Joint Security Strategy has resulted in a combined 40 percent reduction in disorderly customer incidents, a 47 percent decrease in fare disputes, and a 12 percent decrease in requests for police assistance over the first six months of 2026, compared to the same period last year. The MTAPD has also increased patrols on commuter trains over the past several years, improving visibility and deterrence throughout the system.

Additionally, the Long Island Rail Road recently announced upgrades to its already robust camera network with the installation of panoramic cameras which feature 360-degree coverage at stations, yards and grade crossings to better protect riders by removing blind spots and speeding up emergency response times through use of the camera’s live feeds.

On the Staten Island Railway, the MTA has enhanced security by replacing every car with state-of-the-art R211 railcars roughly a year ago, which have security cameras in every car. These cameras are vital resources that provide police with fast access to clear, high resolution images to accurately identify suspects and arrest them. The cameras also deter potential criminals from committing bad acts aboard trains and in stations. The cameras are complemented by other security measures, including the installation of LED lighting, which makes stations brighter and therefore safer.

Plan Invests in Largest Bus Network Redesign in the Nation, Improving Service and Reliability for 800,000 Daily Riders

Queens Local Buses are Traveling Faster with Better Connections to Subway Stations

See the Presentation Made to the MTA Board Here

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced Queens local buses are faster and more reliable following implementation of the Queens Bus Network Redesign. New routes, extended routes, and adjusted routes are getting people to neighborhoods and key destinations faster.

“The Queens Bus Network Redesign is delivering on the promises of faster buses, greater reliability and increased access to jobs, education and more for the City’s most bus reliant borough,” said NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow. “These improvements are the result of years of community input to ensure a bus network for the modern era.”

“Thanks to the redesign, Queens riders are spending less time waiting for the bus and less time on the bus which amounts to real times savings for New Yorkers,” said NYC Transit Executive Vice President of Buses Frank Farrell. "The Buses team is committed to getting buses running faster, more reliably and safely for the millions of daily riders who count on us to get them where they need to go.”

Overall, Queens local buses are traveling 1.7% faster on weekdays. Off-peak speeds increased 1.9%. Rush routes have seen an average 4.6% speed increase. Citywide 24 out of 25 routes with the greatest speed increases from Spring 2025 to Spring 2026 occurred in Queens.

Riders on the Q51 route between South Ozone Park and Cambria Heights are saving up to 18 minutes due to new Limited service and B62 riders between the Greenpoint Av G station and 21 St-Queensbridge M station are saving up to 11 minutes due to a route extension. Working with partners at the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT), new and upgraded bus lanes on Hillside Avenue installed at the same time as Queens Redesign implementation are resulting in speeds up to 28% faster.

In Queens, where residents are more likely to face longer commutes and have limited access to subway and rail compared to other boroughs, the bus network plays an important role, especially for historically marginalized communities. Since the QBNR, 124,000 more Queens residents have access to a bus that arrives every 10 minutes or better between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. and 68,000 more Queens residents have access to 24-hour bus service.

Since implementation, Customer Journey Performance Time (CJTP), or the percentage of trips that arrived at their destination within five minutes of scheduled time, was the highest May recorded since publicly published, excluding the pandemic years between 2020 and 2022. 71.2% of trips in Queens made it to their destinations within five minutes of scheduled time.

The overhaul of the decades-old Queens bus network is shaped by six years of planning and community feedback consisting of 300 redesign events and nearly 20,000 comments. These changes expand accessibility, improve transit equity, and deliver better bus service with faster trips, more frequent service, and better connections to key destinations and the rest of the transit system. The new bus network includes 124 routes, consisting of 94 Local and 30 Express routes, a net increase of 11 routes from the existing network.

The new bus network adds a new type of route, labeled “Rush,” in addition to the existing Local, Limited, Select Bus Service (SBS), and Express routes. Designed to get riders to their destination more quickly, Rush routes have both a local and a non-stop portion to quickly connect between outer borough neighborhoods and subway stations.

MTA Bus Network Modernization

The Queens Bus Network Redesign is part of major effort to modernize New York City’s bus network across every borough. Over decades, demographics have shifted in residential and business communities and so have travel patterns. The redesigned networks deliver the needed larger-scale improvements to better meet the demand of current and future bus customers.

In 2018, a redesigned express bus network was implemented on Staten Island. In 2022, a redesigned local bus network was implemented in the Bronx. And in Brooklyn, the project team is reviewing feedback from the Brooklyn Bus Network Redesign’s Draft Plan released in December of 2022 to develop the Revised Draft Plan.

Free Shuttle Buses Replace Train Service Between Rockaway Blvd and Ozone Park–Lefferts Blvd Nov. 7–16

View Project Information Page

View Map of Service Changes

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced an upcoming closure along the Liberty Avenue line for critical track and switch replacement work to support Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC). Free shuttle buses will replace train service between Rockaway Blvd and Ozone Park–Lefferts Blvd while crews upgrade tracks and switches for the transition to CBTC.

The nine-day closure, beginning Saturday, Nov. 7, and ending Monday, Nov. 16, is the first in a series of planned service outages needed to complete the CBTC project. The signal modernization project will replace the oldest remaining signal equipment in the subway system, dating to the 1930s, and provide faster, more reliable service on the and lines. The nine-day service outage will begin Saturday, Nov. 7, and end Monday, Nov. 16. Additional weekend and overnight work will continue throughout 2027.

During the outage, crews will replace all track components, including ties, rails, third rail and switches. Crews will also install temporary stair towers and below-track shielding as part of a larger, multi-phase construction program.

Saturday, Nov. 7 to Monday, Nov. 16

From 12:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, until 5:00 a.m. Monday, Nov. 16, trains will not operate between Rockaway Blvd and Ozone Park–Lefferts Blvd. Those trains will instead operate between Rockaway Blvd and Howard Beach–JFK Airport. Overnight Lefferts Shuttle service between Lefferts Blvd and Euclid Ave will be suspended.

Free shuttle buses will replace train service between Rockaway Blvd and Lefferts Blvd, arriving every 3 to 5 minutes during peak hours and every 10 minutes during off-peak hours.

Service to Lefferts Blvd:

Shuttle buses will stop at 93 St/Liberty Av, Rockaway Blvd/97 St, Rockaway Blvd/102 St, 111 St/Liberty Av and Lefferts Blvd/Liberty Av.

Service to Rockaway Blvd:

Shuttle buses will stop at Lefferts Blvd/Liberty Av, 111 St/107 Av, Rockaway Blvd/104 St, Rockaway Blvd/Liberty Av and Rockaway Blvd/94 St.

During the closure, riders can also use regular Q112 service on Liberty Av, Q8 service on 101 Av or Q41 service on 109 Av and Rockaway Blvd for travel in either direction. Regular local bus fares apply. The Q112, Q8 and Q41 do not operate overnight.

Street-level construction related to the project will also require Q112 detours over two weekends. Riders should allow extra travel time during those periods.

Traffic Detours:

Work on the elevated structure will require street-level construction affecting traffic during part of the closure. The following restrictions will be in effect from 12:00 a.m. Saturday until 5:00 a.m. Monday on the weekends of Nov. 7–9 and Nov. 14–16:

• Liberty Av will be closed to all through traffic.

• 99 St between 103 Av and Rockaway Blvd will be closed to all through traffic.

• 100 St between 103 Av and Rockaway Blvd will be closed to all through traffic.

• Northbound traffic on Liberty Av will be diverted to 103 Av from 98 St to 104 St.

• Southbound traffic on Liberty Av will be diverted to Rockaway Blvd from 101 St to 96 St.

• Signs will indicate temporary curbside parking restrictions.

Ways to Stay Informed

mta.info– The definitive source for real-time arrival information and service change information for each line or route in the MTA system. Customers can find current statuses on mta.info and upcoming planned service changes using the lookup tool at mta.info/alerts.

MTA app– Customers who use the comprehensive MTA smartphone app will see real-time train, bus and rail arrival times, and can chat with the customer care team all in one place. The app is available in the Apple Store and in Google Play.

Email Alerts– Customers can sign up for email alerts tailored to their specific commutes and travel times. They can also sign up for MTA newsletters like The Weekender, a weekly newsletter that covers major weekend planned service changes. Customers can sign up here.

511– Customers who prefer to contact the MTA by telephone, information is available by dialing 511. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use their preferred service provider for the free 711 relay to reach the MTA at 511.

Lake Street bridge reconstruction requires additional time; normal CTA rail service expected to fully resume by 4 a.m. Wednesday, October 28

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced today that construction activities associated with the major replacement of the Lake Street Bridge will be extended an additional two days beyond the original schedule – moving the completion time from Monday, October 26 to 4 am. Wednesday, October 28, due to the complexity of the connections between the existing and new bridge leaf elements and unanticipated alignment issues.

While CDOT crews require additional time to complete complex structural, electrical, and mechanical alignments on the bridge leaf, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has successfully completed track and interlocking maintenance at Tower 18 over the weekend.

As such, effective 4 a.m. Monday, October 26, Brown, Orange, and Purple line trains will resume normal operations and serve the Loop Elevated tracks.

To accommodate the ongoing CDOT bridge construction, the temporary service adjustments previously established for Green and Pink line trains will remain in place:

• Green Line: Trains will continue operating in two segments—between Harlem/Lake and Clinton, and between Clark/Lake and South Side terminals. Bus shuttles will carry passengers between Clinton and Clark/Lake stations.

• Pink Line: Trains will continue operating between 54th/Cermak and the Racine Blue Line station, where passengers can transfer to Blue Line trains to reach downtown. Pink Line trains will not operate around the Loop elevated structure.

Normal CTA rail operations across all lines are expected to fully resume by 4 a.m. Wednesday, October 28, following final alignment checks, systems testing, and test train runs by CDOT and CTA personnel. CDOT appreciates the continued patience of Chicago commuters, residents and business owners as crews work to safely finalize this essential bridge infrastructure project.

For real-time CTA service alerts and travel guidance, visit transitchicago.com.

For additional updates on city bridge construction projects, visit Chicago.gov/CDOT.

New Name Helps Riders Locate Campus Near , and Terminal, with Connections to 30 Bus Routes

$1.9 Billion Investment Funded By Congestion Pricing Will Modernize A and C Service in Brooklyn and Queens

Modern Signals Will Replace 1930s-Era Equipment, Providing Faster, More Frequent and More Reliable Service

View Photos of Announcement

View Video of Announcement

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of the largest signal and track replacement project in the history of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). The $1.9 billion investment, made possible with funds from congestion pricing, will modernize and service in Brooklyn and Queens, replacing antiquated, 1930s-era signals with Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC). The modern signal system allows trains to safely run faster and closer together, facilitating more frequent and reliable subway service.

“Congestion pricing keeps delivering wins for New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Upgrading nearly 100-year-old signals does more than just modernize infrastructure that is long-overdue – it is a critical part of our plan to run better and more frequent subway service, shortening waits and slashing delays. When this project is done, hundreds of thousands of and train riders will benefit from the world-class service on new, modern trains that New Yorkers deserve.”

The project spans 42 track miles along the Fulton and Liberty lines and will replace the oldest remaining signal equipment in the subway system. The work will span from High St A/C to Ozone Park–Lefferts Blvd A, covering 23 stations serving 350,000 riders each weekday. The project corridor provides connections to seven other subway lines, 36 bus routes and connections to the Long Island Rail Road. Across their full routes, the A and C serve 750,000 riders each weekday.

The work builds on other CBTC investments serving and riders along Eighth Avenue between 59 St in Manhattan and High St in Brooklyn. Modernizing signals across nearly 85 miles of the subway system is made possible with funds from congestion pricing. Governor Hochul's successful funding of the MTA’s 2025–2029 Capital Plan provides an additional $5.4 billion to modernize signals across more than 75 miles on the Broadway N/Q/R/W, Liberty Avenue A, Rockaway A/S and Nassau Street J/Z lines.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Signal issues are the number one cause of subway delays – no surprise considering the ancient relics we’ve been using to direct train traffic. Thanks to this almost $2 billion project – the largest of its kind in MTA history – we are going to be able to run more and trains faster, safer, and more reliably than ever before.”

MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres‑Springer said, “This marks the official launch of the largest signal modernization project in MTA history—a transformational investment that will improve and service for hundreds of thousands of riders. By using new construction methods that cut our per‑mile costs by a third, we’re proving that we can modernize the system better, faster, and cheaper than ever before.”

NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow said, “Communication-based train control has proven to improve service for riders with faster, smoother, and more reliable trips. I’m thrilled that A and C

riders can look forward to experiencing a modern system that they can rely on for decades to come.”

Modern Signals Deliver More Reliable Service

Signal issues are the leading cause of subway delays. Much of the system still relies on aging equipment with components that are no longer commercially manufactured, making maintenance increasingly difficult and expensive.

The existing signal system divides tracks into fixed sections and identifies whether a train occupies each section. CBTC provides a more precise picture of train locations and speeds, allowing trains to safely operate closer together and supporting more frequent service. The modern equipment is also less expensive and easier to maintain.

CBTC is currently operating across the full and lines, as well as portions of the and routes on the Queens Boulevard and Culver lines. Following signal modernization, on-time performance on the line jumped from 68% to 91%. On the line in Queens, train speeds increased by approximately 10% following CBTC activation.

For the Fulton-Liberty signal modernization project, the MTA will use an approach that's been shown to reduce signal modernization costs per mile by 33% compared with the average for prior CBTC projects. The MTA achieved this by shifting to a design‑build contracting model that transfers much of the project risk to contractors.

Additionally, the MTA's new strategy for these projects focuses solely on installing state‑of‑the‑art Communications‑Based Train Control technology, foregoing the costly maintenance of legacy signaling during the transition, reducing the need for expensive equipment along the tracks, and maximizing scheduled service outages.

The first phase of work will focus on replacing aging switches and more than 250 feet of specialized track, between 104 St and 99 St in Queens.

The project will also include infrastructure to support future cell service for riders and work to keep existing infrastructure in a state of good repair. The contract for the project was awarded to L.K. Comstock & Railworks in December 2025. Completion is expected in the second quarter of 2032.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, “The world’s greatest city deserves the world’s greatest public transportation system. Unfortunately, for decades, New Yorkers have missed appointments, been late to work and lost hours of their lives due to train delays caused by aging signal infrastructure. I am grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul and the MTA for their leadership in overhauling outdated signals to make life better for riders of the and lines in the Eighth Congressional District and across the city,” 

State Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “The world's greatest city deserves the world's greatest transit system. But right now countless New Yorkers deal with delayed trains because our century-old infrastructure hasn't kept up. This is a transformative investment that will make it easier for Brooklynites to get to work, school, and everywhere else they need to go. It's exactly why we passed congestion pricing, and it's exactly what New Yorkers need. Thank you to Governor Hochul and the MTA for making this happen.”

Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato said, “More reliable A train service is crucial for the residents of Southeast Queens. We are faced with the longest commute times in the City and taking bold steps to improve our longest subway line will help ease this burden! Thank you to Governor Hochul for her bold investment in our neighborhoods, let’s get Southeast Queens moving!” 

Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest said, “The A and C

lines are lifelines for the people of my district, connecting our communities to where they need to go. This investment in modernizing our subway signals is a critical step toward faster, more reliable service.” 

Assembly Member Latrice Walker said, "The residents of my district rely heavily on the A and C lines every day, and for too long, they have been burdened by service delays that inevitably come with century-old technology. Replacing these 1930s-era signals on the

and

lines with state-of-the-art technology will drastically improve the daily commutes for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. I am thrilled to see this critical modernization project get underway, delivering the reliable transit system that people deserve.” 

NYC Council Member Lincoln Restler said, “The train gets you almost everywhere, but the 750,000 daily riders too often confront chronic delays and unacceptable service disruptions. I’m grateful that the MTA is taking on this massive project to upgrade our antiquated signal system and achieve faster and more reliable service for commuters and everyone else navigating Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan on this busy line.” 

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said, “South Queens families have long deserved quick and efficient subway service — not being at the mercy of century-old technology that causes constant delays and lengthens commutes. This massive investment in Communications-Based Train Control technology — made possible by the policy victory that is congestion pricing — will cut commute times, make subway rides more reliable and give our neighbors more time with their families. Thank you to Governor Hochul and the MTA for their partnership in ensuring that significant amounts of revenue raised through congestion pricing has been invested back into public transit here in Queens.” 

Metro Rail will open at 5 a.m. to help thousands of runners get to the starting line for the 51st Marine Corps Marathon, one of the region’s most celebrated annual events. Trains will run frequently throughout the day, making Metro Rail the easiest way to get around while avoiding traffic and road closures.

Nearest Stations

• For packet pick up, runners can take Metro to Judiciary Sq or Gallery Place. The National Building Museum is a short walk from the stations.

• On race day, runners can take Metro to Pentagon for the Runners Village and race starting line. Note, only runners will be allowed at the start and finish lines this year.

• Spectators can take Metro to race viewing spots near the following stations: Smithsonian, Crystal City, L’Enfant Plaza, and Arlington Cemetery (opening at 9 a.m.). Visit the Marine Corps Marathon website for race viewing location details and use Metro’s Trip Planner to map out your ride.

• Spectators can meet runners at the Family Link Up Zone near Rosslyn.

Fares range from $2.25 to $2.50 for any one-way trip. Customers can simply tap a debit, credit, or mobile wallet card to pay for trips at fare gates. Be sure to use the same card to exit. Other payment options are also available.

Service Information

Metro Rail

Saturday, Oct. 24

Stations will open at 6 a.m. and will operate normal Saturday frequencies with increased capacity. Participants in the MCM 8K on Saturday morning can take Metro to Smithsonian or Federal Triangle.  Please note, the starting line is about a mile from either station.

Red Line: Trains run every 6 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 10 minutes.

Green Line: Trains run every 8 minutes all day.

Yellow Line: Trains run every 8 minutes all day.

Blue Line: Trains run every 12 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 15 minutes.

Orange Line: Trains run every 12 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 15 minutes.

Silver Line: Trains run every 12 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 15 minutes.

Sunday, Oct. 25

Stations will open at 5 a.m. and will operate normal Sunday frequencies.

Red Line: Trains run every 6 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 10 minutes.

Green Line: Trains run every 8 minutes all day.

Yellow Line: Trains run every 8 minutes all day.

Blue Line: Trains run every 12 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 15 minutes. Arlington Cemetery will open at approximately 9 a.m.

Orange Line: Trains run every 12 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 15 minutes.

Silver Line: Trains run every 12 minutes; after 9:30 p.m. trains run every 15 minutes.

At downtown stations served by multiple lines, trains will arrive every 4 minutes on Blue, Orange, and Silver lines between Rosslyn and Stadium-Armory and every 4 minutes on Green and Yellow lines between Mt. Vernon Sq and L’Enfant Plaza.

Metro Bus   

Sunday, Oct. 25 – Marine Corps Marathon

Pentagon Transit Center - Due to the event, all Metro Bus service that normally operates to/from the Pentagon will be diverted to Pentagon City on Sunday from 2:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. While the Transit Center will reopen at 4 p.m., the detours will continue through 7 p.m. due to road closures. Additional staff will be on hand at Pentagon City to assist bus customers.

Rosslyn Bus Terminal - All Metro Bus service will be relocated from the Rosslyn Bus Terminal to North Oak St between Wilson Blvd and North 18th St from 2:30 a.m. until approximately 7 p.m. to accommodate the Marathon Finish Festival.

Crystal City Station - All Metro Bus service will be relocated from Crystal City to Pentagon City from 2:30 a.m. until approximately 7 p.m. to accommodate the Marine Corps Marathon. 

Across Virginia and DC - Due to road closures, some Metro Bus routes will be detoured or turned back between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. The following routes will be impacted: A11, A1X, A27, A40, A58, A66, A76, D10, D1X, D30, D32, D40, D4X, D44, D50, D60, D6X, D74, D80, F44, and F62. Please note, road closures are subject to change with some detours potentially extending through 7 p.m. View a list of temporary detours.

Customers will be notified as roads reopen on X at @MetrobusInfo and on the Status and Alerts page or sign up for MetroAlerts to receive up-to-date service information.

Travel Tools and Resources

Metro’s customer service team can assist with questions, trip planning, and more via chat, email, phone, or our social media channels. Customers can call or text 202-GO-METRO (TTY 202-962-2033) Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Automated information available 24/7.

Follow @wmata, @metrorailinfo, and @metrobusinfo on X or @wmata.com, @metrorailinfo.bsky.social, and @metrobusinfo on Bluesky for the latest service information.

For service alerts via text or email, sign up for Metro Alerts, download the Metro Pulse app, or visit wmata.com/metropulse for real-time service information.

The pilot program brings trained teams to help de-escalate passenger issues and assist riders in need, complementing Agency’s continued law enforcement surge

Earlier this month, teams of Safe Ride Specialists began riding Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) trains and monitoring key stations and major bus terminals across the system to help maintain a safe, welcoming, and respectful transit environment for everyone. The Specialists are one component of the Agency’s comprehensive safety approach, which includes law enforcement, non-law enforcement and physical and environmental upgrades. Safe Ride Specialists work in addition to and in coordination with police, security and frontline staff. Specialists include teams of mental health clinicians, peer support specialists, crisis intervention specialists, and community violence intervention experts that are trained to help de-escalate passenger issues and assist riders in need.

“Safe Ride Specialists are the latest addition to our expanded safety approach that’s designed to help every rider feel welcome on public transit," said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. "The increased presence of both police officers and trained crisis intervention specialists across the system is critical to our ability to continue to reduce crime and support riders in need on CTA."

Safe Ride Specialists wear distinct, branded vests reflecting their primary role as either:

• Crisis Intervention Specialists: Support riders experiencing housing instability, mental health crises and substance abuse disorders by connecting them to treatment, housing, and social services.
• Community Violence Intervention Specialists: Engage youth and young adults to build positive relationships, de-escalate potential conflicts, and redirect energy into constructive behaviors.

The program is another layer of CTA’s comprehensive safety approach that was strengthened with the passage of the NITA Act. Earlier this year CTA partnered with the Chicago Police Department (CPD) and Cook County Sherriff’s Office to deploy additional officers across the system, amounting to a 75% increase in monthly system policing hours. These additional law enforcement activities, the Safe Ride Specialists and other initiatives were outlined under the CTA’s security enhancement strategy unveiled earlier this year.

CTA has also increased investment in non-law enforcement rider engagement initiatives. Safe Ride Specialists add to CTA’s existing resources for unhoused riders on the 24-hour Red and Blue lines through a partnership with Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) that recently expanded to include increased access to shelter beds.

During the one-year Safe Ride Specialist pilot, CTA will measure program effectiveness through various key performance indicators, such as incidents de-escalated without the use of law enforcement; reduction in service delays; improved safety for front line personnel and riders; and connections to needed wraparound resources. These indicators will be evaluated to determine the future of the program and help inform the regional safety initiatives being led by NITA.

"We look forward to seeing the impact that Safe Ride Specialists have," said NITA interim Executive Director Jamie Rhee. "It is important that we use a variety of approaches to help people feel safer on the system, and the results of this pilot will help us inform a long-term public safety strategy."

Teams of Specialists ride trains and monitor key stations and bus terminals in four dedicated staging areas on the Blue, Green and Red lines. Locations were determined based on incident data and feedback from riders and frontline staff.

Where to find Crisis Intervention Safe Ride Specialists riding:

• Blue Line O’Hare Branch: Logan Square to Jefferson Park
  • Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Blue Line Forest Park Branch: Austin to Forest Park
  • Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Green Line: Harlem/Lake to Conservatory-Central Park
  • Monday-Friday, 6 p.m. – 1 a.m., Saturday 6 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Where to find Community Violence Intervention Safe Ride Specialists riding:

• Red Line: Lake to Roosevelt
  • 7 days/week, Noon – 3:30 a.m.

Partner agencies include Healthcare Alternative Systems (HAS), Street Samaritans, Housing Forward, and Metropolitan Peace Initiatives – a division of Metropolitan Family Services. Each organization brings significant outreach experience and a network of wraparound services that riders can directly access, including shelter beds, respite locations, mental healthcare, and much more. Every Safe Ride Specialist team carries outreach materials; care & hygiene kits; and Narcan.

"HAS is excited to partner with the CTA to provide person-centered, trauma-informed services in a space that all Chicagoans rely on every day. Crisis doesn't always happen in a clinic; it happens in public and on transit systems. We are eager for our talented, compassionate staff to continue meeting people where they're at and provide them with the support they need,” said Millie Adan, Chief Executive Officer of HAS.

“Street Samaritans is proud to partner with the CTA on this critical work. Our approach has always been rooted in the people we serve and extending that work to the Blue Line reflects exactly where it's needed most. This partnership is a natural extension of our commitment to Chicago, one that now reaches into the transit system where so many of our neighbors spend their days,” said Oscar Martinez, Executive Director of Street Samaritans.

"Housing Forward looks forward to partnering with the CTA on the Safe Ride Specialist Pilot Program and bringing more than 15 years of Street Outreach experience to the Green Line. CTA trains are a natural place to engage with individuals experiencing homelessness and an opportunity to connect them to services and a pathway to stability,” said Lynda Schueler, CEO of Housing Forward.

“We are proud to partner with the Chicago Transit Authority on this innovative pilot program that brings Community Violence Intervention (CVI) and crisis prevention strategies into one of the city’s most important public spaces,” said Vaughn Bryant, Vice President and Executive Director of Metropolitan Peace Initiatives (MPI). “We are also equally excited to create new employment pathways for Chicagoans who want to use their lived experiences and commitment to peace to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Public safety and violence prevention remain a top priority for MPI, and we believe the presence of our trained Crisis Prevention and Response Unit (CPRU) can help foster a safer, more welcoming transit environment for all riders. This pilot program is an opportunity to demonstrate the transformative impact of CVI and create a model that can one day be expanded across the city’s public transit system.”

The Safe Ride Specialist program pilot was developed collaboratively in partnership with riders and more than 30 mental health and social service experts, community organizations, and labor partners at CTA’s Transit Community Safety workshop held in August 2025.

The total cost for the pilots is $9.6 million and is supported by previously allocated funds under the CTA budget with additional funding authorized by the RTA Board in May after the passage of the NITA Act.

To learn more, visit transitchicago.org/saferide.

Temporary suspension will affect Brown, Green, Orange and Pink Line service; shuttle buses will continue connecting customers to rail stations and Loop destinations

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will complete the remaining track renewal and interlocking revitalization at the CTA’s largest junction located at Well and Lake beginning at 4 a.m. Saturday, and finishing at 4 a.m. Monday, which will require temporary changes to Brown, Green, Orange and Pink Line service in the Loop.

The Loop and Lake Junction supports all rail service on the elevated track infrastructure in the Loop. This interlocking is one of the busiest rail interlockings in the nation and requires significant maintenance every ten years to help support safe, reliable service through the Loop and reduce the risk of future service disruptions. This work is a continuation of maintenance work that began in Fall 2025 with a similar closure to revitalize two quadrants of the Loop and Lake Junction.

CTA is leveraging the ongoing closure of Pink and Green Line service due to the Chicago Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) Lake Street Bridge replacement to repair the remaining two quadrants of the Loop and Lake Junction.

Customers using the Green and Pink lines should be aware that the weekend service plan will differ from the plan in effect from October 13 – 23 due to the full Loop elevated closure over the weekend. Brown and Orange Line riders traveling into the Loop will also be impacted. Shuttle buses will transport customers around the affected area.

Shuttle buses will transport customers around the affected area.

What customers need to know

Loop and Lake junction work: 4 a.m. Saturday, October 24, till 4 a.m. Monday, October 26

• Green Line: Trains will operate between Harlem/Lake and Clinton, and separately between Roosevelt and the South Side terminals. Shuttle buses will operate between Clinton and Roosevelt, replacing the Clinton–Clark/Lake shuttle used during the first phase of the Lake Street Bridge closure. Riders traveling to/from the downtown area from the South Side branches can also connect to Red Line service at Roosevelt station.

• Brown Line: Trains will operate between Kimball and Merchandise Mart. Riders travelling downtown can connect to Red Line trains at Belmont and Fullerton stations. Shuttle buses will also be provided to connect customers between Merchandise Mart and Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren.
• Orange Line: Trains will operate between Midway and Roosevelt. Customers traveling between Roosevelt and the Loop can use the shuttle buses operating between Roosevelt and Clinton.
• Pink Line: Trains will continue to operate between 54th/Cermak and the Racine Blue Line station. Customers traveling to or from downtown can transfer between Pink and Blue Line trains at Racine. Pink Line trains will not operate around the Loop.

CTA will use signs at affected stations, transfer points and shuttle connections, along with customer alerts and train and platform announcements, to help customers navigate the temporary changes.

Customers should plan ahead and allow additional travel time. For service information, shuttle stop locations and travel guidance, visit CTA’s customer alert for the temporary suspension of Loop ‘L’ service.

Regular service is scheduled to resume at 4 a.m. Monday, October 26, following completion of the work and required testing.

12.4-mile corridor bus transit project will deliver faster travel times, safer streetscapes, seamless connections for Angelenos

B-roll and Photos here

Metro broke ground on the 12.4-mile Vermont Transit Corridor Bus Rapid Transit (Vermont BRT) Project, a major investment along Los Angeles County’s busiest route. Projected to serve 66,200 daily riders, the Vermont BRT will deliver faster travel times, safer streets and seamless connections for Angelenos while transforming one of the nation’s most heavily traveled transit corridors and creating the nation’s busiest BRT corridor.

“This is more than a bus route. As a former community organizer in South LA, I know personally that this project is a transformational investment that will deliver reliable and affordable transportation for more than 38,000 hardworking people who use this bus every weekday,” said Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “By connecting South LA with Los Feliz, we’re creating good-paying union jobs, building a greener, more sustainable city, and connecting people to local businesses, healthcare, world-class institutions, and real economic opportunity.”

Unlike underground subway construction, riders will not have to wait until the entire line is complete to experience time savings. Once BRT bus lanes are ready, Metro riders can experience the system as the lanes are completed.

“Every day, tens of thousands of Angelenos ride the bus on Vermont to get where they need to go, from work and school to cultural institutions to medical appointments,” said Metro Board Member and Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. “Today, we are delivering those riders the transit experience they deserve – fast, reliable service with welcoming, comfortable stops. When riders can count on the bus coming on time and getting them where they need to go faster, they get time back to spend as they want instead of sitting in traffic or waiting for the next bus.”

Connecting Key Destinations and Transit Lines
The corridor serves as a critical regional link, directly connecting passengers to four Metro Rail lines, the B, C, D and E Lines and more than 13 east-west bus routes. It offers seamless access to major destinations including USC, Exposition Park, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Los Angeles City College, Kaiser Permanente Sunset, 88 local schools and 375 faith-based institutions. Over 21% of current Vermont Avenue riders rely on Metro’s GoPass program, which provides free transit to K-12 and community college students.

Fast Travel Times and Phased Delivery
To tackle traffic bottlenecks where right-of-way widths vary from 55 to 160 feet curb-to-curb, the project introduces dedicated side-running bus lanes, transit signal priority, off-board fare payment and all-door boarding. Together, these enhancements will slash end-to-end travel times by up to 24% and boost bus on-time performance along the corridor.

“This project improvement represents promises kept when the Vermont line and the last red car were retired,” said Metro Board Director Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker. “For decades, our riders on Vermont Avenue have navigated crowded buses and congested streets to get to work, school, and healthcare. Today, we are delivering real solutions that honor their time and dignity. With shaded shelters, safer crosswalks, protected bike lanes and dedicated bus lanes, this project elevates the everyday transit experience into something faster, safer and truly world-class for everyone who travels Vermont Avenue.”

Enhanced Station Features and Safety Enhancements
Beyond travel speed, the project redefines the streetscape across the 26 enhanced stations. Upgrades include brand-new weather and shade shelters, upgraded lighting, real-time arrival displays, emergency call buttons and ADA-compliant curb ramps. To improve pedestrian safety and first/last mile neighborhood access, Metro is installing traffic-calming bus bulb-outs to shorten street-crossing distances, along with wider sidewalks and protected bike lanes.

Economic Impact and Local Job Creation
In addition to mobility improvements, the project acts as a major economic engine, expected to support more than 4,800 construction jobs, generate $95 million in tax revenue and create roughly 260 permanent operations and maintenance positions.

“Carrying 11 million riders every year, Vermont Avenue is a vital lifeline for students, workers, parents and seniors across the region,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “We approached this project with urgency and listened closely to the community, making critical adjustments as we are cutting travel times, fortifying our bus network and building a world-class transit system ready to move LA.”

Shaped by Community Input
The project’s design is the direct product of extensive community co-creation. Traversing federally designated Opportunity Zones, Metro partnered with 38 community and faith-based organizations, starting in 2021. Through multilingual door-to-door canvassing, urban design workshops, and rider surveys, Metro engaged approximately 26,000 residents, whose direct feedback shaped station locations, safety lighting, cleanliness initiatives and cultural design features.

Funded with Federal Support
The project received a financial boost on Sept. 1, 2026, when the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded the project $149.9 million through its Capital Investment Grant Small Starts Program, the program’s maximum federal grant. Combined with state funds and local voter-approved Measure M sales tax revenue, the project is now fully funded.

For more information about the Vermont BRT Project, visit metro.net/vermontbrt.

About Metro  
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is building the most ambitious transportation infrastructure program in the United States and is working to greatly improve mobility. Metro is the lead planner, funder, builder, and operating agency for public transportation in L.A. County and carries nearly 1 million boardings daily on a fleet of 2,200 low-emission buses and six rail lines. The latest customer experience survey, fielded in July 2026, showed that customer satisfaction with Metro has risen to 87%. Stay informed by following Metro on The Source and El Pasajero at metro.net,  facebook.com/losangelesmetro , x.com/metrolosangeles and x.com/metroLAalerts and  instagram.com/metrolosangeles. 

Our 2026 Muni Holiday Sweater is here! And we’ve got sizes available for the whole family.

The holidays are right around the corner, and you’ll be able to count on at least two things this year. First, Muni will get you wherever you need to go all season long. And second, you can dress festively to impress with the 2026 Muni Holiday Sweater.

The holiday season means something different for everyone. For us, it’s a time to celebrate San Francisco and more than a century of Muni service. Our new sweater is part of that celebration.

Images of Muni and San Francisco adorn this year’s sweater. 

A cozy, high-quality knit for 2026

This collectible holiday piece was created by SFMTA Graphic Designer Anton Belov. It’s the third holiday sweater or pullover we’ve offered. And the new design weaves different Muni eras together alongside hallmarks of San Francisco.

It includes callbacks to Muni’s fleet, “and some of the elements that make San Francisco and the Bay Area what it is,” Belov explained.

The sweater’s color palette is inspired by Muni’s green and cream livery. That’s the paint scheme we used on our buses and streetcars from 1946 until 1969. The sweater also features the iconic Muni worm and some of our vehicles, including the beloved cable car. And there are San Francisco touches, as well, such as sailboats and shoreline waves.

Belov grew up in the city and took Muni to school from junior high through college. His relationship with the system made this project more meaningful. “It created an opportunity for me to make something that I would want to wear,” he said. “And that, hopefully, other people would want to wear, as well.”

Celebrate Muni and San Francisco in style with our new sweater.

Creating community one sweater at a time

We produced our first Muni holiday sweater in 2024 and opened our online Muni Store later that year. And one thing we have learned is that clothing and other merchandise can bring people together. That connection is something Belov hopes the new sweater will continue to promote.

“Maybe people will strike up a conversation with strangers if they're wearing the same sweater,” he said. “It’d just be so fun to see a sea of people wearing this green and cream sweater out in the streets.”

And even if the new sweater doesn’t lead to new friendships, it is a way to express civic pride and an appreciation for public transit.

“There's always a hunger for people to wear merch that comes from Muni,” Belov said. “It's such a well-loved brand and so recognizable that people want to show it off as much as possible.”

Once you pick up your 2026 Muni Holiday Sweater, you should feel free to post photos on social media. And you can tag us (@sfmta_muni)!

Where to get your sweater

The 2026 Muni Holiday Sweater is available for preorder now at the Muni Store. You also will be able to find a limited number at our brick-and-mortar partner, the Market Street Railway’s San Francisco Railway Museum. The sweater will be in stock there once the season gets underway.

Cozy up to the holidays with a fun piece of San Francisco right on your back.

CTA in partnership with NITA is hosting an online survey and series of community events to engage riders about the future of bus service in the Chicago region

In coordination with the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA), the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is gathering feedback under its Bus Vision project. Bus Vision is an opportunity for transit riders and non-riders alike to provide invaluable insight into how CTA’s bus service can best serve riders and communities across the region. A final draft of the study will be submitted to NITA at the end of this year after CTA incorporates feedback from the engagement events this fall. Beginning in 2027, NITA will lead regional service planning strategy in coordination with CTA, Metra, and Pace.

Today, CTA released an online survey and announced a series of events where transit riders and residents can share feedback on bus service in their community and help set priorities for how the bus system should continue to evolve and improve. Service changes and improvements under consideration through Bus Vision include increased frequency, expanded service hours, route adjustments, enhanced transfers and connections, new bus priority infrastructure that could contribute to increased bus speeds, and cross-agency coordination with Metra, Pace and NITA.

The survey is available at CTABusVisionProject.com in English and en español and will close November 30^th. People who complete the survey can enter for a chance to win one of five $100 digital Visa gift cards.

Following is the schedule of open houses and other community events where riders can share feedback.

Open Houses:

• Tuesday, October 27, 2026 from 5-7pm at Chicago Lawn Library
• Sunday, November 8, 2026 from 2-4pm at Albany Park Library
• Monday, November 9, 2026 from 5-7pm at West Pullman Library
• Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 5-7pm at Little Village Library
• Monday, November 16, 2026 from 5-7pm at Chicago Bee Library
• Tuesday, November 17, 2026 from 5-7pm at CTA Headquarters
• Thursday, November 19, 2026 from 6-8pm, Virtual Open House 

Other Community Events:

• Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 5pm-8pm at Don Nash Community Center in South Shore
• Saturday, October 31, 2026 from 7am-1pm at Oak Park Farmers Market
• Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 2-5pm at Robert Crown Community Center in Evanston

At many of these events, NITA and CTA will be joined by our partners at Metra and Pace as there’s often corresponding transit service in communities, and collectively, the agencies are seeking to create a more coordinated transit service across the region.

Additional details and optional registration are available at ctabusvisionproject.com/getinvolved/#Events. 

On an average weekday more than 620,000 rides are taken on the CTA bus network, which includes over 2,000 buses that operate 127 routes and cover more than 1,500 route miles. For most Chicagoans, the bus is the nearest public transit option; 96% of residents live within a half-mile walk of a CTA bus stop compared to only 30% of Chicago residents who live within the same distance of a CTA rail station.

In 2026 CTA has delivered more frequent and expanded service across the region through the burgeoning Frequent Bus Network, with service every 10 minutes or better between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. By the end of the year the Frequent Network will include 24 routes and an estimated 75% of the CTA service area will be within a half mile of a frequent bus route, benefiting roughly 2.4 million riders.

Residents can email [email protected] for more information or to be added to the project contact list.

The MBTA today shared it has released five new special edition collectable CharlieCards featuring iconic Boston landmarks including: the Massachusetts State Capital building, Bunker Hill Monument, the Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum, the Old State House, and TD Garden.

The MBTA’s Customer Experience team in partnership with the MBTA Fare Revenue Department previously released three commemorative cards in summer 2026.

“Riding the T is one of those things that makes Boston Boston,” said Interim Secretary and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “I say that myself as someone who is proud to call Boston home. The T is one of the best ways to travel and see all that Massachusetts has to offer, and today we’re excited to reveal a new set of limited edition CharlieCards, which feature iconic Boston landmarks that remind so many people of the amazing city we live in and its rich history.”

The new entrance to Crystal City station, scheduled to open in spring 2027, has received an Envision Silver Award for resilient design from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI). It is the first project in the Metro system to earn an Envision award. The Crystal City East Entrance will increase station capacity, accommodate more customers, improve accessibility and safety, and enhance connectivity as the area continues to grow.

Envision is a framework and rating system that encourages infrastructure stakeholders to plan, design, and implement more resilient and high-performance projects (similar to the LEED program for buildings). To earn an Envision award, a project must go through third-party verification, demonstrating its ability to achieve performance and resilience outcomes across five categories: Quality of Life, Leadership, Resource Allocation, Natural World, and Climate & Resilience. The East Entrance was recognized for achievements across these areas, including community benefits such as:

• Improving community mobility and access, especially as the new elevators will upgrade accessibility;
• Encouraging multimodal transportation through improved transfers between Metro Rail, Metro Bus, VRE, Crystal City-Potomac Yard Transitway, and ART services, as well as connections to the Mount Vernon Trail; and
• Enhancing public health and safety, as it creates an additional emergency exit and allows first responders to quickly access the station.

“This award recognizes Metro’s commitment to building resilient infrastructure that makes our system safer and more accessible,” said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “The new Crystal City entrance will give customers more convenient access to Metro Rail and help us meet the needs of this growing neighborhood.”

The new entrance is the first public transportation station project in the Mid-Atlantic to earn a Silver rating.

Metro and Arlington County have teamed up with local developer JBG Smith, lead designer VHB, and Clark Construction to deliver the East Entrance through a collaborative design-build approach. The project broke ground in July 2024. VHB also led the Envision verification effort, coordinating resilient design strategies through multiple phases and guiding the project through the Envision framework.

“This designation reflects Arlington’s ongoing commitment to its comprehensive transit network and County transportation goals,” said Arlington Board Chair Matt de Ferranti. “This second entrance will provide new, safe, and reliable ways for riders to access the Crystal City station — enhancing an already fantastic transportation option for Arlingtonians and visitors to commute to work, to visit local businesses and public amenities, and to explore and enjoy all that Arlington and the region has to offer.”

Crystal City is one of Metro’s busiest stations in Arlington County. The new entrance at the northwest corner of 18th St South and Crystal Dr will provide station access from the street level through an aboveground lobby and connect customers from a new mezzanine to the train platforms using stairs and elevators.

The project also reached high levels of achievement in measures of risk and resilience, infrastructure integration, stormwater management, economic development, stakeholder involvement, and construction safety. Its planning, design, and funding were a partnership between multiple stakeholders, and Metro and Arlington County engaged with the community throughout the project’s development. The project’s roots go back to 2010, when Arlington County’s Crystal City Sector Plan identified access improvements needed at the Crystal City station, with further evaluation and stakeholder feedback helping to narrow potential sites and shape the final above-ground entrance design.

“The new station entrance will improve transit access, accessibility, and connectivity in a growing community, while demonstrating how collaboration and the Envision framework can help deliver higher-performing infrastructure that is more sustainable and resilient,” said Anthony Kane, President and CEO of ISI, “as the first WMATA project and first Arlington County project to obtain Envision verification, this is an achievement that everyone involved can be proud of.”

Construction continues this fall and winter, with completion expected on schedule in spring 2027. For more information, visit Metro’s project website. To learn more about Envision, visit the ISI website.

Project creates first local-stop commuter rail service on Van Nuys Boulevard in more than 70 years 

B-Roll and Photos Here

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) today broke ground on the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project, which will expand transit access to major employment hubs, schools, healthcare facilities, and local businesses. This is part of a broader plan by Metro to increase public transit and improve mobility throughout the San Fernando Valley.

“The East San Fernando Valley deserves an affordable and safe transit system that provides reliable access to jobs, healthcare, schools and local businesses – I’m proud that Metro’s Light Rail Transit Project will deliver just that,” said Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass . “Under my leadership as Chair of the Metro Board, we’re bringing Metro services to our Van Nuys, Panorama City, Arleta and Pacoima neighborhoods where nearly 19% of residents rely on public transit. By creating 18,000 good-paying jobs through this project, we’re demonstrating the benefits of investing locally and building the infrastructure that Angelenos deserve.” 

The 6.7-mile line will run along Van Nuys Boulevard through the densely populated and transit-dependent communities of Van Nuys, Arleta, and Pacoima. Roughly 19 percent of households in the project corridor are fully transit-dependent, without a personal vehicle, compared to just eight percent for Los Angeles County as a whole. It is the first local-stop commuter rail service to roll down Van Nuys Boulevard in more than 70 years.

The project integrates directly with regional transit networks, providing smooth and immediate transfers to Metrolink, Amtrak, and the Metro G Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line, maximizing county reach.

“This Metro investment is a game changer for our community,” said Metro Board Member and LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath. “Our Valley residents deserve faster, easier, and safer connections between Van Nuys and San Fernando, enhancing access to jobs, healthcare, and essential services throughout the Valley.”

The 11 new at-grade light rail stations will feature modern shade structures and safety improvements and will operate at street level in the center of Van Nuys Boulevard. These stations are located approximately three-quarters of a mile apart and include: Van Nuys Metro G Line, Victory, Vanowen, Sherman Way, Van Nuys Metrolink, Roscoe, Nordhoff, Woodman, Arleta, Laurel Canyon and San Fernando.

Along with new stations, the project delivers major streetscape upgrades, including ADA-compliant sidewalks, safer pedestrian crossings and improved roadway design.

Economic Opportunity
Construction and operations are projected to inject more than 18,000 direct and indirect jobs into the local economy. Metro is using a dedicated Project Labor Agreement/ Construction Careers Policy to guarantee that good-paying construction jobs go to local community residents. In addition, the rail line will seamlessly connect Valley riders to 150,000 employment opportunities across the region.

Metro will mitigate construction impacts through its Business Interruption Fund (BIF) for local “mom and pop” shops. Other programs include the Business Solution Center (BSC) for hands-on business assistance and support services to small businesses along the route, and the Eat, Shop, Play program that provides hands-on support and marketing assistance for local businesses.

“This marks a historic milestone for the East San Fernando Valley and the working-class communities that have waited generations for this kind of investment,” said Metro Board Member and Los Angeles City Councilmember Imelda Padilla. “As someone who grew up in the Valley, I know how much reliable public transportation means to our families. Bringing rail back to Van Nuys Boulevard after more than 70 years is about more than connecting people to jobs, schools, and essential services. It is about creating new opportunities for our residents, supporting our local businesses, and making sure the communities that have called this corridor home for generations are part of its future.”

Funding
The project’s estimated cost of construction is $3.998 billion and will be funded through a variety of federal, state, and local sources, including voter-approved sales tax Measure M.

Metro secured an $893 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to finalize the project’s overarching funding layout. The grant marks the first Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA) executed under the Federal Transit Administration’s Expedited Project Delivery Pilot Program, which leverages unique federal channels to speed up major fixed-guideway capital builds.

The East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project serves as the core backbone of a broader multi-billion-dollar transit surge coming to the San Fernando Valley over the next 10 years.

“The San Fernando Valley is key for Metro in creating a connected Los Angeles County,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “We want to improve access and mobility for the diverse communities along the route who depend on transit. The new East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project is a huge step in providing access to jobs and the economic boost from the project will benefit local residents and the economy.”

About Metro The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is building the most ambitious transportation infrastructure program in the United States and is working to greatly improve mobility. Metro is the lead planner, funder, builder, and operating agency for public transportation in L.A. County and carries nearly 1 million boardings daily on a fleet of 2,200 low-emission buses and six rail lines. The latest customer experience survey, fielded in July 2026, showed that customer satisfaction with Metro has risen to 87%.

Stay informed by following Metro on The Source and El Pasajero at metro.net,  facebook.com/losangelesmetro , x.com/metrolosangeles  , x.com/metroLAalerts and  instagram.com/metrolosangeles.

Cassandra Griffin, also known as Cable Car Cassandra, is one of our Safe Driver Award winners this year.

Being a Muni operator is an important and challenging job. It’s not easy to drive a cable car, streetcar or 40- or 60-foot bus through the streets of San Francisco. Yet, hundreds of operators have stepped up to the plate and get behind the wheel every day.

They keep our city moving up and down San Francisco’s iconic hills. They help people get everywhere, including to work, school, the grocery store and the doctor. And of course, Muni is a great way to get to museums, concerts and sporting events.

All our Muni operators make safety a top priority. And those who drive at least 1,952 hours without any preventable incidents or collisions during the fiscal year (July – June) earn an official safe driving record for that year.

Our riders matter. Their safety matters.

Top of the class

179 operators have met the safe driving standard for 15 years or more. This week we'll be celebrating our safe drivers, and we hope you'll celebrate them too.

“It’s my 18th year as a Muni driver,” said Safe Driver Award winner Voltaire Barsana. “Safe driving isn’t a job – it’s a way of life.”

“I’m a conductor on the Powell/Hyde cable car line,” explained Safe Driver Cassandra Griffin. “And as Cable Car Cassandra, I take pride in offering safe, memorable rides to visitors from around the world.”

Of the 179 operators we are honoring, 111 have 20 years or more of safe driving under their belts. Three operators have met the safe driving standard for more than 35 years:

•    Oliverio Valle, 51 years of safe driving
•    Lonnie Moore, 48 years of safe driving
•    Angel Carvajal, 36 years of safe driving

“As a Muni driver on the 38R with almost 20 years of experience, I’m proud to help mothers with young children in strollers reach their destinations safely,” Safe Driver Siu Leung told us.

“Since 2000, I’ve driven the 36 Teresita and 48 Quintara buses, safely transporting students, teachers and seniors to their destinations each day,” said Safe Driver Raymond Robinson.

Safe Driver Award winner Voltaire Barsana has been a Muni operator for almost two decades.

“Thank you, Operator!”

Muni operators brave smoke-filled air during wildfire seasons. They face street flooding during rainstorms. And they navigate traffic delays and transit reroutes during major events like Hardly Strictly Bluegrass and Fleet Week.

The next time you ride Muni, please take a minute to thank your operator. They make sure we get to our destinations safely so we can enjoy our great city. 

And a small gesture of appreciation can go a long way.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) announces that for the first time, today Orange Line subway service will be able to operate up to 55 MPH between Assembly Station and North Station in the inbound and outbound direction.

This success builds upon speed increases implemented in August 2025 where the Orange Line reached 55 MPH between Oak Grove and Assembly Station. The increased speeds are attributable to track improvement work completed as part of the Track Improvement Program (2023 – 2024) and recent infrastructure work.

"When we took office, we made a commitment to fix the T and deliver the faster, safer and more reliable service that riders deserve," said Governor Maura Healey. "Today, Orange Line trains can reach speeds of up to 55 miles per hour north of North Station because of the investments we've made to improve tracks and infrastructure. I'm grateful to General Manager Eng and the hardworking MBTA employees who are making these improvements possible. We're going to keep building on this progress and delivering better service for riders across the entire system."

"We have removed slow zones, upgraded signal systems, scaled accessibility efforts, delivered new fleets, and worked smartly to improve infrastructure across the entire MBTA system under the leadership of Healey-Driscoll Administration,” said Interim Secretary and MBTA General Manager Eng. “Today we are proud to deliver improvements that will make travel even more efficient giving riders back more time in their days. I’m proud of what our workforce continues to accomplish and thankful for our riders for their patience. As a result, we are providing our Orange Line riders shorter trip time and 76% more service every weekday compared to winter 2023.” 

Overall Ridership Grows to over 1 Million Weekday Boardings  

September marked the official start of fall, but Metro numbers continue to rise. Metro ridership was 27,281,003, an increase of 3.9% over September 2025. The D line had the biggest year-over-year (YOY) increase, showing 114% growth on weekdays and nearly 93% overall.  

Systemwide, ridership averaged 1,022,776 on weekdays, a 4.4% increase over September 2025. Saturdays averaged 720,083 boardings, and Sundays averaged 584,475. Nearly 20% of ridership came from customers enrolled in fare programs that offer free or discounted rides, including GoPass (for students in grades K-community college at participating schools), LIFE (for persons with qualifying incomes), U-Pass (for students at participating colleges and universities), and E-Pass (for employers who offer transit to their employees). The LIFE Program grew 35% YOY.     

September was very busy with concerts, sports, cultural activities, and conventions. BTS played a multi-night run at SoFi Stadium, J. Cole performed at both Intuit Dome and Crypto.com Arena, and the Hollywood Bowl hosted a John Williams tribute. College football returned with home games for USC at Memorial Coliseum and UCLA at the Rose Bowl, plus home games at SoFi Stadium for both the Rams and Chargers. The Dodgers, Galaxy, LAFC, Sparks, and Kings all played at home. The highly anticipated Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Expo Park opened in September, and the Los Angeles Korean Festival also took place at Seoul International Park. Long Beach Comic Con at the Long Beach Convention Center and the Los Angeles Low Rider Magazine Super Show at the LA Convention Center both attracted big crowds.  

Rail Ridership Continues Growth Trajectory 

Rail ridership remains strong, rising 12.4% over September 2025 to 6,698,337. Weekdays had the highest growth at 13.9%, with average boardings of 244,680. Saturday boardings averaged 194,793, a 10.5% increase YOY.  

Other year-over-year rail ridership highlights include: 

• A line ridership increased 9.5% to 2,083,094, and grew 10.4% on weekdays to 244,680 average ridership. 

• B line ridership increased by 4.5% in September to 1,412,266. The biggest growth came on Sundays, up 24.4% to an average ridership of 49,300. 

• D line growth increased every day of the week. In addition to the phenomenal growth on weekdays, Saturdays had average boardings of 14,221 for a 24.5% increase and Sundays had average boardings of 11,457 for a 20% increase. 

• E line ridership was 1,658,854, a 10% increase, with Saturdays showing the strongest growth at 12.5% to 50,826 average ridership. 

• K line ridership grew 2.2% to 242,298, with Saturdays showing the biggest growth at 7.6% to 7,064 average ridership. 

 
Bus Ridership Continues to Grow 

Bus ridership rose 1.4%  year over year, with a 2.2% increase on Saturdays to 525,290 average ridership. The J line, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), was up 5.6%. Total bus ridership in September was 20,582,666. 

Public Safety on Metro 

Metro continues to strengthen safety across its system through a visible, engaged presence of uniformed personnel, enhanced access control through environmental design, and partnerships with the County, cities, and regional agencies to address societal issues affecting the transit system. 

In August, 99.998% of trips were completed without incident. Violent and property crime rates combined reached 6.25 incidents per million boardings, the lowest level for August since 2019. Compared with July, violent crime declined 11.7%, and property crime fell 27%. 

Metro Transit Security Officers continued their targeted Code of Conduct enforcement (including fare enforcement) operation on the G line, which launched on June 8. On July 27, Metro also launched a joint train-riding operation with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) on the A Line North. 

From July 27 through August 31, Metro Transit Security train-riding teams on the A Line North averaged seven removals per sweep, up from one per sweep during the same period last year. At targeted stations, citations increased 4,200% compared with the same period last year, primarily for no proof of fare. 

Metro’s outreach teams continued connecting people experiencing homelessness with services and housing. In August, teams engaged 443 individuals, resulting in 222 interim and 46 permanent housing placements in coordination with regional service providers. In fiscal year 2027, 1,288 people have been enrolled in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), and 558 have been connected to interim or permanent housing. Metro’s goal is to facilitate 2,400 housing placements for the new fiscal year.   

In November, the MBTA will accomplish work on critical Green Line central tunnel signal modernization, accessibility upgrades on the Green Line, important switch work near Wonderland, signal pre-commissioning on the Red Line, and Commuter Rail improvements while also supporting MassDOT work as part of the West Roxbury Parkway Bridge Replacement project.

The MBTA today announced major construction work will continue in November to upgrade and enhance the subway and Commuter Rail system. With the goal of improving reliability and the accessibility of the T for all riders, MBTA crews will make advancements on critical Green Line central tunnel signal modernization, accessibility upgrades on the Green Line, important switch work near Wonderland, signal pre-commissioning on the Red Line, and Commuter Rail improvements. The MBTA will also support MassDOT work as part of the West Roxbury Parkway Bridge Replacement project. More information on each project is below.

In order to accomplish these system upgrades, service changes will take place in November on the Green, Red, Blue, Franklin/Foxboro, Framingham/Worcester, Needham, Greenbush, Kingston, Stoughton, and Haverhill lines.  

Riders can find more information on service changes through in-station signage, in-station public announcements, and at mbta.com/PlannedWork. Transit Ambassadors and MBTA staff will be available on-site to offer information and assistance during these service changes. Riders are encouraged to subscribe to T-Alerts or to follow the MBTA on X @MBTA, @MBTA_CR, and @MBTA_CR_Alerts for up-to-date service information.

On the Green Line

The MBTA will continue work in November on critical signal upgrades within the central Green Line tunnel. At over 100 years old, the MBTA’s Green Line signal system is being replaced with upgraded, modern technology. When the project is complete, the new signal system will provide the MBTA Operations team with improved train detection, better management of train congestion within the tunnel, and more consistent train spacing, which provides the foundation for improved service frequency. These operational improvements mean more reliable service for riders with fewer unplanned disruptions and emergency repairs caused by the older, aging signal system. Compatible with the upcoming fleet of new Type 10 Green Line cars, these signal upgrades also help prepare the MBTA for future generations of riders.  

In November, work will continue as part of the Green Line C Branch Accessibility Improvements project. The MBTA is advancing critical accessibility improvements at seven above-ground stations on the C Branch, which will provide a faster and more comfortable boarding experience for all riders.  

As previously announced, Symphony Station remains closed to advance major accessibility upgrades at the station. The 85-year-old Symphony Station is being upgraded into a safer, fully accessible station featuring four new elevators and many other station enhancements.  

To accomplish this work, the following service changes will take place:

• Green Line service will be suspended between Government Center and Babcock Street on the B branch, Government Center and Cleveland Circle on the C branch, North Station and Kenmore on the D branch, and Heath Street and North Station on the E Branch for nine consecutive days, November 7 – 15.
   

•  
  • Riders using shuttle bus service should budget ample extra travel time. For example, a rider travelling to Park Street from Cleveland Circle should budget at least an additional 25 minutes of travel in additional to their regular commute.  
     
  • B Branch: Free and accessible shuttle buses will operate between Babcock Street and Back Bay.  
     
    • Riders can connect to the Orange Line at Back Bay for continued service through downtown toward North Station.  
       
    • Fares will not be collected at surface-level stops between Babcock Street and Boston College.  
       
    • Route 57 bus service will be fare-free during this service change.    
       
  • C Branch: Free and accessible shuttle buses will operate between Cleveland Circle and Back Bay.      
     
    • Riders can connect to the Orange Line at Back Bay for continued service through downtown toward North Station.  
       
    • Shuttle bus service will not be available at Saint Mary’s Street, Kent Street, or Brandon Hall in both directions. Riders should instead utilize shuttle bus service at the next nearest stop. 
       
  • D Branch: Free and accessible shuttle buses will operate between Kenmore and Back Bay.      
     
    • Riders can connect to the Orange Line at Back Bay for continued service through downtown toward North Station.  
       
    • There will be free fares at Kenmore and Riverside with the fare gates open. Fares will also be free at all surface-level stops west of Kenmore.    
       
  • E Branch: Route 39 will replace Green Line E Branch service between Heath Street and Back Bay. Extra buses will be added to the 39 to accommodate additional capacity. The route will be fare-free during this service change. 
       
  • All shuttle buses are accessible to riders with disabilities. However, some buses used during weekday periods will be lift-equipped, coach-style buses. All shuttle buses operating on weekends will be ramp-equipped, low-floor buses. Accessible van service will also be available between North Station and Kenmore, including Copley/Back Bay, for riders who prefer it. Riders should see station personnel or use a station call box to request accessible van service.   
     
  • The Worcester Commuter Rail Line will be fare-free between South Station, Back Bay, and Lansdowne during this Green Line service change. Riders should note that regular fares should be purchased beyond Lansdowne and regular fares should be purchased if traveling on a Commuter Rail line other than the Worcester Line. 
     
• Symphony Station is closed to riders until spring 2029. During this time, Green Line E branch trains will bypass the station (meaning trolleys will operate through the station in both directions, but will not stop).   
   
  • Riders who typically board or disembark at Symphony can instead board or disembark at Northeastern University or Prudential, which are 0.3 miles away (or about a five-minute walk) from Symphony. 
     
  • Riders are encouraged to instead consider travelling on the Orange Line at Massachusetts Avenue, which is 0.1 miles (or about a three-minute walk) from Symphony. 
     
  • Riders may also use the Route 39, which operates parallel to the E branch in both directions along Huntington Avenue. 
     
• Green Line C branch service will bypass the following street-level stops during the following dates: 
   
  • Green Line trains will not stop at Saint Paul Street in the outbound direction through November 7.  
     
    • Trains will bypass the stop in the outbound direction during this time period. Riders can instead board or disembark one stop away at either Saint Mary’s Street or Kent Street, which are 0.2 miles away (or about a 4- to 6-minute walk).
       
  • Green Line trains will not stop at Hawes Street in the outbound direction through November 7.  
     
    • Trains will bypass the stop in the outbound direction during this time period. Riders can instead board or disembark one stop away at either Saint Mary’s Street or Kent Street, which are 0.2-0.3 miles away (or about a 4- to 6-minute walk).
       
  • Green Line trains will not stop at Hawes Street in the inbound direction for 25 days, November 16 – December 10.
     
    • Trains will bypass the stop in the inbound direction during this time period. Riders can instead board or disembark one stop away at either Saint Mary’s Street or Kent Street, which are 0.2-0.3 miles away (or about a 4- to 6-minute walk).
       
  • Green Line trains will not stop at Summit Avenue in the inbound direction for 25 days, November 16 – December 10.
     
    • Trains will bypass the stop in the inbound direction during this time period. Riders can instead board or disembark one stop away at either Coolidge Corner or Brandon Hall, which are 0.2 miles away (or about a 4- to 6-minute walk).
       
• As previously announced, Green Line service will be suspended between Government Center and Babcock Street on the B branch, Government Center and Kenmore on the C branch, North Station and Kenmore on the D branch, and Heath Street and North Station on the E Branch during the weekend of October 31 – November 1.
   

•  
  • Riders using shuttle bus service should budget ample extra travel time. For example, a rider travelling to Park Street from Boston College should budget at least an additional 25 minutes of travel in additional to their regular commute.  
     
  • B Branch: Free and accessible shuttle buses will operate between Babcock Street and Back Bay. 
    • Riders can connect to the Orange Line at Back Bay for continued service through downtown toward North Station.  
       
    • There will be free fares at Kenmore with the fare gates open. Fares will also be free at all surface-level stops west of Kenmore.  
       
    • Route 57 bus service will be fare-free during this service change.    
       
  • C Branch: Free and accessible shuttle buses will operate between Kenmore and Back Bay.      
     
    • Riders can connect to the Orange Line at Back Bay for continued service through downtown toward North Station.      
       
    • There will be free fares at Kenmore with the fare gates open. Fares will also be free at all surface-level stops west of Kenmore.    
       
  • D Branch: Free and accessible shuttle buses will operate between Kenmore and Back Bay.    
     
    • Riders can connect to the Orange Line at Back Bay for continued service through downtown toward North Station.      
       
    • There will be free fares at Kenmore and Riverside with the fare gates open. Fares will also be free at all surface-level stops west of Kenmore.    
       
  • E Branch: Route 39 will replace Green Line E Branch service between Heath Street and Back Bay. Extra buses will be added to the 39 to accommodate additional capacity. The route will be fare-free during this service change.   
     
  • The Framingham/Worcester Commuter Rail Line will be free between South Station and Lansdowne during these service changes. Passengers should note that regular fares are in place beyond Lansdowne. 
     
  • All shuttle buses are accessible to riders with disabilities. Some of the buses used will be lift-equipped, coach-style buses. Accessible van service will be available for Green Line stops between Kenmore and North Station for those who prefer it. Riders should see station personnel or use a station call box to request this service.

On the Red Line

During three days in November, the MBTA will perform critical pre-commissioning signal work on an area of the Red Line called “Tenean Beach” near North Quincy. The MBTA has accelerated modernizing and upgrading the Red Line’s signaling infrastructure, and the pre-commissioning work precedes final testing and commissioning of the new signal system in this area.  

The MBTA’s Maintenance of Way department will also maximize this outage by replacing complicated switch areas and rail at switches between Broadway and North Quincy.

To accomplish this work, the following service change will take place:

• Red Line service will be suspended between Broadway and JFK/UMass on the Ashmont Branch and Broadway and North Quincy on the Braintree Branch for three days, November 20 – 22.
   
  • Free and accessible shuttle buses will make all stops between Broadway and JFK/UMass as well as between Broadway and North Quincy. 
     
  • There will be free fares with the fare gates open at:  
     
    • Ashmont Branch: Ashmont, Shawmut, Fields Corner, Savin Hill
    • Braintree Branch: Braintree, Quincy Adams, Quincy Center, Wollaston
       
  • Riders are strongly encouraged to use the Fall River/New Bedford, Kingston and Greenbush (Old Colony) Commuter Rail lines for fare-free service between Braintree, Quincy Center, JFK/UMass, and South Station. Commuter Rail schedules are available at MBTA.com/CR. 
     
    • Travel time between Braintree and South Station on the Commuter Rail is about 24 minutes.  
       
    • Riders should note that regular Commuter Rail fares will be collected for travel beyond Braintree.
       
  • Riders using shuttle buses should budget ample extra travel time. For example, a rider traveling to Downtown Crossing from Braintree should budget at least an additional 50 minutes of travel in additional to their regular commute.  

On the Blue Line

During one weekend in November, the MBTA’s Maintenance of Way and Signals teams will replace switch and tie infrastructure at the end of the Blue Line near Wonderland, which ultimately improves the reliability of Blue Line service for riders.

To accomplish this work, the following service change will take place:

• All Blue Line trains will operate on a single track between Revere Beach and Wonderland during the weekend of November 14 - 15. 
   
  • Riders will need to board all trains at Wonderland on the outbound platform.  
     
  • Blue Line train service will operate between Bowdoin and Wonderland, though every other train will terminate at either Wonderland or Orient Heights.  
     
  • Trains will operate approximately every 14 minutes between Orient Heights and Wonderland.  
     
  • Trains will operate at their normal weekend frequency between Bowdoin and Orient Heights.

On the Franklin/Foxboro Commuter Rail Line

Work will also take place in November to support the South Station Signal and Track Improvements Project. The MBTA is in the process of upgrading the Tower One track and signal system and the Cove track system to improve the reliability of service at South Station. This work will also support future growth of the MBTA and Amtrak.  

Keolis is also performing track improvement work during one weekend in November.

In order to accomplish this work, the following service change will take place:  

• All Franklin/Foxboro Line trains will be replaced with free and accessible shuttle buses between Foxboro and Walpole on November 6, 9, and 13.  
   

•  
• All Franklin/Foxboro Line trains will be replaced with free and accessible shuttle buses between Forge Park/495 and Walpole during the weekend of November 14 – 15.

On the Framingham/Worcester Commuter Rail Line

In November, the MBTA will perform critical work on the Framingham/Worcester Line as part of Worcester Line track and signal improvements. The MBTA continues to invest in its Commuter Rail infrastructure to help keep service safe, reliable, and efficient.

To accomplish this work, the following service suspension will take place:

• Framingham/Worcester Line service will be suspended between Framingham and South Station during the weekend of November 7 – 8.  
   

•  
  • Free and accessible shuttle bus service will replace train service between Framingham and South Station. There will be four shuttle routes available during this closure.  
     
    • Shuttle Bus Route 1 will operate between Framingham, West Natick, Natick Center, Wellesley Square, Wellesley Hills, and South Station. 
       
    • Shuttle Bus Route 2 will operate between Wellesley Hills, Riverside for connections to the Green Line D branch, Auburndale, West Newton, Newtonville, Boston Landing, and South Station.     
       
    • Shuttle Bus Route 3 will operate between Framingham, West Natick, Natick Center, Wellesley Square, Wellesley Hills, and Back Bay.   
       
    • Shuttle Bus Route 4 will operate between Wellesley Hills, Riverside for connections to the Green Line D branch, Auburndale, West Newton, Newtonville, Boston Landing, and Back Bay.   
       
  • There will be no shuttle bus stops at Wellesley Farms and Lansdowne.       
     
    • Passengers who typically board at Wellesley Farms should instead travel to Wellesley Hills for alternate shuttle bus services.  

The Commuter Rail between Worcester and Framingham will be fare-free during this service change.

On the Needham Commuter Rail Line

MassDOT will perform work in November as part of the West Roxbury Parkway Bridge Replacement project, which will replace the bridge that carries the West Roxbury Parkway over the Needham Line.

Work will also take place in November to support the South Station Signal and Track Improvements Project. The MBTA is in the process of upgrading the Tower One track and signal system and the Cove track system to improve the reliability of service at South Station. This work will also support future growth of the MBTA and Amtrak.

To accomplish this work, the following service change will take place:

• Needham Line service will be suspended between Needham Heights and South Station beginning at approximately 11 PM through the end of service on November 6 and continuing through the weekend of November 7 – 8. 
   

•  
  • There will be no shuttle bus service alternatives for this service change.    
     
  • Passengers may use Bus Routes 35, 36, and 37 between West Roxbury and Forest Hills for connections to Orange Line subway service between Forest Hills and Back Bay.    
     
  • Passengers may use Bus Route 59 between Needham Junction and Newton Highlands. Additional buses will operate on the 59 later into the evenings during these weekend dates to mimic the span of time Needham Line train service operates.    
     
  • There will be no service at Hersey.  
     
  • Riders using Bus Routes 35, 36, 37, or 59 should budget extra travel time. For example, a rider traveling to South Station from West Roxbury should budget at least 35 minutes of travel in addition to their regular trip time.  
     
• There will be no Needham Line service between Forest Hills and South Station on November 6, 9, and 13. Passengers should instead use the Orange Line subway for service to Forest Hills, Ruggles, and Back Bay, and for connections to the Red Line to South Station.  

On the Greenbush, Kingston, and Stoughton Commuter Rail Lines  

Work will take place in October to support the South Station Signal and Track Improvements Project. The MBTA is in the process of upgrading the Tower One track and signal system and the Cove track system to improve the reliability of service at South Station. This work will also support future growth of the MBTA and Amtrak.

To accomplish this work, the following service change will take place:

• There will be no Greenbush or Kingston Line service between South Station and Braintree on November 6, 9, and 13. Passengers should instead use the Red Line subway for service between South Station and Braintree, as well as the New Bedford/Fall River Line.   
   
• There will be no Stoughton Line service between Canton Junction and South Station on November 6, 9, and 13. Stoughton Line service will operate as a shuttle train between Canton Junction and Stoughton. Passengers will need to change at Canton Junction for Providence Line service to Boston.

On the Haverhill Line

In November, Keolis crews will continue to advance major work on the Haverhill Line with important culvert replacements taking place along the West Route.  

To accomplish this work, the following service change will take place:

• There will be no Haverhill Line service between North Wilmington and North Station during the weekends of November 7 – 8 and November 14 – 15.  
   

•  
  • The Haverhill Line will operate on the “Wild Cat Branch” between Ballardvale and Anderson/Woburn on the Lowell Line with trains also operating express between Anderson/Woburn and North Station. 
     
  • Free and accessible shuttle bus service will replace train service. There will be two shuttle routes available during this closure.  
     
    • Shuttle Bus Route 1 will operate between Anderson/Woburn on the Lowell Commuter Rail Line and Reading. 
        
    • Shuttle Bus Route 2 will operate between Reading and Oak Grove to connect with Orange Line subway service between Oak Grove and North Station. 

The MBTA previously announced service changes in October. More information is available here.  

Significance of Multi-Day Outages

The MBTA is reminding riders that service outages such as these are a critical and necessary part of maintaining the infrastructure improvements that took place as part of the 2024 Track Improvement Program while also making further system upgrades and modernizing the MBTA’s infrastructure. This work cannot be performed during the overnight hours when the MBTA does not operate, and would be extremely inefficient and costly if planned during single weekend outages.  

Closing a section of the transit system for multiple days is the most efficient way to perform the MBTA’s routine maintenance, revitalization efforts, inspections, and upgrade work, and combines the efforts of multiple contractors and the MBTA workforce around the clock 24/7 to maximize productivity. This work is necessary and continuous to maintain the reliable service riders count on.

12 Additional Hudson Line Trains Will Serve Upper Hudson Valley Destinations

New Haven Line to Operate Normal Saturday Schedule Oct. 17; Walk Bridge Construction Schedule Moves to Sunday, Oct. 18

MTA Metro-North Railroad today announced that it is adding more of its popular Hudson Line Leaf Peeper trains as the line sees unprecedented weekend ridership this fall. Metro-North carried approximately 171,000 riders last Saturday, underscoring strong demand for fall foliage travel to the Hudson Valley. The additional service begins this Saturday, Oct. 17, and will operate each weekend through Sunday, Nov. 8.

Strong demand for travel between Tarrytown and Poughkeepsie has continued, with 20 Leaf Peeper trains now added to the weekend schedule to provide more capacity for riders visiting popular Upper Hudson Valley destinations.

Metro-North also announced that schedule adjustments on the New Haven Line for the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Walk Bridge project will move from Saturday, Oct. 17, to Sunday, Oct. 18, because of forecast high winds on Saturday. A normal Saturday schedule will operate on Oct. 17.

Additional Hudson Line Leaf Peeper Service

Metro-North is adding six round trips each weekend between Grand Central Terminal and Beacon, stopping at Harlem-125th Street, Croton-Harmon, Peekskill, Garrison and Cold Spring.

The added service gives riders more options to enjoy fall foliage and visit communities along the Hudson Line.

New Haven Line Schedule Adjustments Move to Sunday, Oct. 18

Metro-North will operate a normal Saturday schedule on the New Haven Line on Oct. 17 and a reduced construction schedule on Sunday, Oct. 18, following the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s postponement of planned work for the Walk Bridge project because of forecast high winds.

Riders should check the TrainTime app or mta.info before traveling.

The SFMTA released San Francisco’s Speed Study 18-Month Report on Oct. 15, 2026.

It’s been 18 months since the SFMTA launched the Speed Safety Camera Program. And our data shows that speeding is down substantially at locations where cameras have been installed.

•    Excessive speeding is down 84% across camera locations. 
•    That translates to more than 42,000 fewer instances of speeding every day.

Our analysis is supported by an independent study by UC Berkeley. Cal researchers also found that the program reduced speeding in San Francisco.

The Speed Safety Camera program has made a difference at the intersection of Geary Boulevard and Fillmore Street (shown here). Speeding in the area has decreased by more than 50% since a camera was installed nearby.

Our goals

We published San Francisco’s Speed Safety Camera Program’s 18-Month Report on Oct. 15. This report is part of our commitment to share program results with the public. We are using it to:

•    Understand the Speed Safety Camera Program’s effectiveness
•    Measure whether the program is achieving its safety goals
•    Inform future decisions about camera operations and program improvements in San Francisco

Excessive speeding is down significantly across camera locations. And most drivers who receive a violation are not getting a second or third one.

Our findings

Speed is the leading cause of severe traffic injuries and death on San Francisco’s streets. Our Speed Safety Camera Program is reducing speed and changing driver behavior.

We activated the first speed enforcement cameras in March of 2025. Since then:

•    Speeding has decreased. Speeding 10 mph or more above the posted speed limit is down 84% across camera locations. That represents more than 42,000 fewer instances of speeding every day.
•    Drivers are getting the message. After receiving one violation notice, 63% of recipients have not received a second. And about 80% have received two or fewer.
•    We’re satisfying state requirements. All 33 camera locations met at least one state-required performance measure. For example, the state requires at least a 20% reduction in excessive speeding at each camera location. These performance metrics are outlined in California Assembly Bill 645. That’s the law that authorized San Francisco and five other cities to implement ASE programs.

These results show that our program is helping create safer streets and more predictable driving patterns. And it’s hitting lawmakers’ benchmarks.

Speeding at the intersection of Fulton Street and Arguello Boulevard is down. Speeding there has also decreased by more than 50% since our Speed Safety Camera program began.

Independent research

Our findings are not the only evidence that the Speed Safety Camera Program is working.

UC Berkeley’s Safe Transportation Research and Education Center (SafeTREC) studied the program. Their preliminary research lines up with our data.

According to SafeTREC, speeding has dropped significantly in San Francisco over the past 18 months. Their analysis includes the following key findings:

•    Public awareness and warnings. Speeds started decreasing when we began issuing warnings. They continued dropping through the 60-day warning period from March-May 2025.
•    Declines in speeding near camera locations. Speeding at camera locations declined at a quicker rate than at comparable locations without cameras. The decline at camera locations was also more substantial.
•    Safer driving speeds. Excess speeding remains significantly below baseline levels 40-50 weeks after activation of cameras.
•    Improved traffic conditions for all. Drivers are travelling at lower and more consistent speeds. This creates more predictable street conditions for everyone.
•    Benefits beyond the camera locations. Speeding declined most significantly in areas where speeds were higher before the cameras were turned on. But speeding also declined at comparison sites. This suggests that the program may be contributing to a citywide behavior shift.

Independent evaluation helps us understand whether a public safety program is working. It helps people trust our data.

The road ahead

The goal of our Speed Safety Camera Program has always been to improve safety on San Francisco’s streets. We’re not trying to make money. All revenue from citations will go back into the program or to fund other street safety projects.

San Francisco was the first city in California to launch an Automated Speed Enforcement program. And we want to help other cities make their streets safer.

We hope that the data collected in this 18-month report will:

•    Help local and state officials make decisions about the future of Automated Speed Enforcement
•    Help other cities implement Speed Safety Camera programs
•    Help the public understand how Automated Speed Enforcement can make communities safer

You can learn more about our Speed Safety Camera Program at our project webpage (SFMTA.com/SpeedCameras).

And you can find the 18-month report here.

Tickets available Monday, October 19 on the mTicket app.

The MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the T’s operations and maintenance partner for Commuter Rail, will operate special event train service between Boston and Foxboro for the October 31 Navy vs. Notre Dame football game.

The train will make the following stops:

• South Station: 9:50 AM
• Back Bay: 9:55 AM
• Dedham Corporate Center: 10:10 AM
• Foxboro: 10:50 AM

The train will depart Foxboro 30 minutes after the conclusion of the game. Tickets will be available on the mTicket app on Monday, October 19 at 11 AM.

Tickets must be purchased prior to boarding the special event train. All passengers, including children 11 and under, must have a ticket to board. Passengers are reminded that there is no regular Commuter Rail service to Foxboro on weekends, so the special event service will be the only train to and from Foxboro on October 31.

Any prohibited items that do not comply with the stadium’s Bag Policy will not be permitted on the trains. No personal items may be left on the train during the event.

The MBTA today announced that 532 users were successfully enrolled in the MBTA’s Car-Free Seniors Pilot Program yesterday, its first day of availability. The new initiative provides free MBTA service to Massachusetts residents age 75 and older who no longer drive, which includes free travel across MBTA bus, subway, ferry, and Commuter Rail services. More information about the pilot program is on the MBTA website.

“It’s great to see more than 500 seniors sign up for free MBTA rides on the very first day of this program,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Just because someone stops driving doesn’t mean they should lose their independence or their ability to get where they need to go. This program is about making it easier and more affordable for older adults to stay connected to their communities, and we encourage all eligible seniors to sign up.”

“I am pleased to see so many enroll on Day 1 in our new Car-Free Seniors Program, giving people who can no longer drive or choose not to drive the ability to still travel using mass transportation. This successful launch underscores how important access to safe, reliable, and affordable travel opportunities are to the public,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “Under the Healey-Driscoll Administration, we continue to prioritize upgrades and improvements in every area of our system, including new fare programs that keep people moving. Our senior riders are important to us, and I thank our new enrollees for trusting the MBTA as their preferred mode of travel for everywhere they need and want to go.”

“At the Registry of Motor Vehicles, we are committed to empowering seniors with the resources they need to maintain their independence, dignity and connection to their communities. We’re proud to partner and support the MBTA in helping participants explore their transportation options with confidence and obtain a Massachusetts ID (Mass ID). We look forward to continuing this partnership and support all of our Car Free Seniors in the days and weeks ahead,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie.

How to Enroll in the Car-Free Seniors Pilot

1. Obtain a Massachusetts ID: Residents must have a Massachusetts ID card to participate in the pilot. A Massachusetts ID is an official form of identification that does not provide driving privileges. Residents who do not already have one can apply through the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Learn more on the RMV website.  
   
   To apply for a Mass ID, complete the Registry of Motor Vehicles application. 
    
2. Once you have a Mass ID or if an individual has one already, apply for the Car-Free Seniors free-fare credential.
   
   Online: Qualified residents who have a Mass ID and who want to be part of the pilot may obtain their free-fare credential by completing the application online. Applicants who use the online form will receive the credential via mail or can elect to pick up their credential in-person.  
   
   In person: Seniors may also visit the Charlie Service Center to apply for the credential. The Charlie Service Center is located at 296 Washington Street between Milk Street and Water Street, is near State Street and Downtown Crossing stations, and is fully accessible. Riders who visit the Charlie Service Center for their free-fare credential will be able to obtain a temporary credential the day of their visit. A permanent credential will be mailed following the visit.  

This summer, Governor Healey announced a series of new and extended MBTA affordability programs to lower costs and make public transportation more flexible and easier to use. The package included 50% off monthly Commuter Rail passes from September through November, an extension of the $1 Weekend Companion Fare, new two-hour unlimited transfer windows, the elimination of higher express bus fares, and the new Car-Free Seniors Pilot.

These affordability programs build on Governor Healey’s broader work to make the MBTA safer, more reliable, and more affordable. Since taking office, her administration has eliminated slow zones, increased service, strengthened the MBTA workforce, and advanced major investments in tracks, signals, stations, and other infrastructure across the system.

Oct. 26: This release was updated with a new start date (Dec. 16 changed to Dec. 18).

Oct. 15: This release was updated with a new service pattern for the Blue Line.

Metro wants customers to know about upcoming temporary service changes on the Green, Orange, Silver, and Blue lines this December. These service changes align with planned work that’s scheduled twice a year to allow crews uninterrupted time to perform critical work to improve safety, reliability, and the customer experience. 

Metro apologizes for any inconvenience, and we appreciate our customers' patience as we make these safety and reliability investments. 

December 18-30: Single tracking between U St and Georgia Av-Petworth   

From Friday, Dec. 18, through Wednesday, Dec. 30, the Green Line will single-track between U St and Georgia Av-Petworth while crews complete work including repair or replacement of rail and fastening systems and restoration of communications, signal system, and lighting infrastructure. 

All stations will remain open, with Green Line trains running every 16 minutes. Yellow Line trains will run between Huntington and Mt. Vernon Sq with no Yellow Line service to Greenbelt. Yellow Line trains will run every 8 minutes every day, except Christmas Day, Dec. 25, when Yellow Line trains will run every 16 minutes.

December 20-30: Single tracking between McPherson Sq and Smithsonian    

From Sunday, Dec. 20, through Wednesday, Dec. 30, the Orange and Silver lines will single-track between McPherson Sq and Smithsonian stations. The Blue Line will run only between Franconia-Springfield and Foggy Bottom.

Orange and Silver line trains will run every 20 minutes on weekdays and weekends. The Blue Line will run with normal frequencies.

Crews will repair grout pads, replace rail and fastening systems, perform concrete repairs, and make necessary facility and lighting infrastructure repairs. 

Metro scheduled this necessary winter construction work during the holiday season, when ridership is typically lower, to minimize impacts on customers.  

For more information, review our advisory website page. 

Trip planning resources 

Customers are encouraged to use Metro Pulse or Rider tools for real-time service information, sign up for Metro Alerts, or check @wmata, @metrorailinfo, and @metrobusinfo on social media for updates. Customers can also call 202-GO-METRO (202-466-3876, TTY 202-962-2033), Monday - Friday, 7 am - 8 pm; Sat. - Sun., 8 am - 8 pm. Automated information is available 24/7. View our planned track work at wmata.com/trackwork. 

Beatriz Flórez Huertas shares information about SFMTA programs.

This Latine Heritage Month, we are celebrating the work of SFMTA Community Liaison Beatriz Flórez Huertas.

At the heart of her job: helping Spanish-speaking communities get around San Francisco.

And Flórez Huertas is especially sensitive to what newcomers might be facing.

Starting with empathy

When Flórez Huertas came to the U.S., she had no connections. She had to learn how to navigate transit, find housing and build a career all on her own.

“When you don’t have family here, who do you rely on?” Flórez Huertas had to ask. “Who tells you things?”

Flórez Huertas says she was lucky to find people willing to share what they knew. “And when I receive help, I like to give back!”

Flórez Huertas and our Office of Racial Equity and Belonging recently brought together more than 100 community members for the SFMTA’s recent Latine Heritage Month cable car ride.

Building trust face-to-face

That sense of gratitude drives Flórez Huertas to show up in person whenever possible. 

“My work is really focused on community engagement,” Flórez Huertas said. “I’m always out in the community, meeting one-on-one with community leaders, presenting to community groups and going to events.”

During some presentations, Flórez Huertas tells people about the range of services we offer at the SFMTA and whom to contact for information and support. In other cases, she discusses street safety or transit projects and welcomes people’s feedback.

Then, she opens the floor to questions. “In every presentation, there are always people who need help with something,” Flórez Huertas said.

Flórez Huertas has helped small business owners request changes to their loading zones or general parking so they can better support customers. And she’s helped many people enroll in Muni’s discount fare programs, especially through our Fares for Our Future campaign. For that effort alone, Flórez Huertas has helped people sign up for free and discount Muni programs at more than 15 events.

“It makes me feel so good being that middle person – between the community and the agency – to find solutions for people.”

Reaching out across channels

When a message is valuable for all Spanish speakers in the city, Flórez Huertas makes sure to share it far and wide.

She translates content for the agency’s social channels and webpages. She records Spanish audio messages that you can hear on Muni vehicles across the city. And she works with the media.

“I staff interviews on TV and radio, and I’m always working to build more relationships to get out the information in Spanish people need.” 

Besides meeting with local organizations, Flórez Huertas also advises our project teams. 

Making our messages culturally relevant

Flórez Huertas certainly translates a lot of material. But she also works with our project teams to ensure that material is culturally relevant for Spanish speakers.

“Sometimes that means making things more visual,” Flórez Huertas said. “I’ll recommend using pictures along with translated text to make things easy for people who do not know English.”

In this area, Flórez Huertas has supported projects ranging from fare compliance materials to pop-ups and a bus tour for the 29 Sunset Improvement Project.

“It’s really about keeping an ear on what’s going on at the agency that people should know about,” Flórez Huertas said. “I try to figure out how to answer questions that community members and organizations might bring up to us.”

Providing access to critical services

Above all, Flórez Huertas is glad to help people navigate a service as critical as affordable transit.

“Not everybody has access to buying a vehicle, and not everybody has access to parking,” Flórez Huertas said. “Affordable transit is so important for people because transit is a basic need. We need to be able to get to places like school and work. But also our favorite places, too, like the bakery or to go dancing!”

Flórez Huertas hopes her outreach work, especially on Muni’s fare programs, will help people avoid tough choices. “When people can get affordable fares, they don’t have to choose between ‘Should I buy breakfast, or should I pay for my fare?’” Flórez Huertas explained. “That’s a big deal.”

No matter the issue at hand, Flórez Huertas is grateful that she’s in a position to help people solve problems.

“I love being that point of contact for folks so that they know there’s someone who cares about them, that we as an agency care about them and want to do our best to provide the services they need.”

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is sharing that real-time information for ferries, including live boat locations and departure predictions, is available now in the MBTA Go app, and other digital tools.  

Riders will be able to track their boats and plan their trips accordingly.

Now with the addition of ferry, all fixed-route MBTA modes of transit (subway, bus, Commuter Rail, ferry) have available live-tracking options.

“Real time travel information is something that the public relies on to make informed decisions and to make  public transportation easier to use.  The MBTA Go app that we launched in 2024 is my go-to, and now ferry riders can use it too,” said Interim Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “I want to thank the MBTA’s Transformation & Technology and ferry operations teams for this upgrade that will serve many riders and connect water transportation to our other modes.  It’s our hope that with more clear communication our riders will have less stress in their busy day as they plan their journeys on land or on the water.”

View latest ferry information in MBTA Go

Launched in November 2024, MBTA Go is the MBTA’s mobile app for live information about service. Riders can now use the app to view more information on ferry service, including:  

• View schedules for today’s ferry service
• See live prediction information about ferry trips in progress or happening soon
• Check for any active ferry alerts that may impact travel plans
• Track a ferry boat as it moves in the water

How to find live tracking information in MBTA Go

MBTA Go is available for both iOS and Android phones. Riders can download the latest version in their phone’s app store.

• Download MBTA Go at MBTA.com/goapp
• Search for a stop or pan the map to tap on a ferry stop
• View departure times and the live location of the boat serving this trip

Other ways to view ferry tracking information

While MBTA Go is the primary way to view latest ferry information, the MBTA provides riders with two additional ways—online at MBTA.com and at digital signs near Aquarium station on the Blue Line.

To view this information on MBTA.com, go to MBTA.com/ferry. Select a route and click “Schedules & Maps” tab, then select a direction and origin stop to view upcoming trips and their predictions.

Riders can learn more about ferry service and plan their next ferry trip at MBTA.com/ferry. 

Reopening restores an additional station entrance and features new signage that is a throwback to the station’s original design

The Chicago Transit Authority this week reopened the rebuilt Loomis Street auxiliary entrance to the Racine Blue Line station, restoring an additional access point for customers at the recently modernized and accessible station. This work is part of the Forest Park Branch Rebuild Project– a multi-year, multi-phased investment program to reconstruct the entire Forest Park Branch of the Blue Line and make it 100% accessible to people who use mobility devices.

The retro-style sign was designed by HNTB, with input and guidance from CTA, and is based on the station’s original signage. The preservation work stems from an agreement with the State Historic Preservation Office that allowed CTA to fully modernize the Racine entrance while preserving the Loomis entrance’s historic design through reconstruction.

“The reopening of the Loomis entrance marks another important step in the transformation of the Racine station,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “Customers will once again have a convenient way to enter and exit the station while benefiting from improvements that preserve its character and create a more welcoming experience.”

Located at 431 S. Loomis Street, the renovated entrance preserves the station’s historic character while complementing the modernized, accessible main entrance at 430 S. Racine Avenue. The accessible entrance, which has remained available through the main stationhouse, features an elevator connecting customers to the rail platform.

The Loomis entrance closed for reconstruction in October 2025 following the reopening of the station’s main entrance on Racine Avenue. Originally constructed in 1958, the Racine station was rebuilt as part of Phase One of the Forest Park Branch Rebuild and CTA’s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP).

The main stationhouse reopened in October 2025 with a new elevator, new stairs, an extended platform and other improvements designed to remove barriers and improve the customer experience.

Extra service will help runners and spectators travel to Grant Park and along the marathon route on Sunday

Metra and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will provide additional service for runners and spectators attending the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on

Sunday. CTA is planning to have added capacity on several rail lines as needed, while Metra will offer extra early morning inbound and midafternoon outbound trains on three lines.

Gates at Grant Park open at 5:30 a.m., with the first runners starting at 7:20 a.m. Customers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time.

CTA Rail and Bus Service

CTA’s Red, Blue, Brown, Green, Orange and Pink lines provide access to the start and finish areas at Grant Park and locations along the marathon route. Extra service will be provided on the Red, Blue, Brown, Green and Pink lines, as needed.

Southbound Purple Line service from Linden to Howard will begin at 5:30 a.m., earlier than the regularly scheduled 6:05 a.m. start.

More than 30 CTA bus routes will be affected by marathon street closures, including all routes in the Loop and most routes operating south of Irving Park Road, east of Damen Avenue and north of 35th Street.

For specific route information and travel guidance, visit transitchicago.com/marathon.

Metra Train Service

Metra will offer extra service on the Milwaukee District North, Union Pacific Northwest and Union Pacific West lines. The BNSF and Union Pacific North lines have expanded Sunday schedules that will get customers downtown before the race begins. All other lines with Sunday service will operate their regular Sunday schedules.

From Thursday, October 8, through Saturday, October 10, additional midday Metra trains will stop at McCormick Place so marathon participants can pick up their race packets and attend the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo in the North Building, Level 3, Hall B1.

For specific Metra schedules, visit metra.com.

Fare Options

Metra’s $7 Sunday Day Pass provides unlimited rides all day and can be purchased on the train or through the Ventra app. Weekend Family Fares also allow up to three children ages 11 and younger to ride free with a fare-paying adult.

Ventra app users purchasing a Metra Day Pass can add unlimited travel on CTA and Pace for an additional $2.50 by selecting the Regional Day Pass option.

CTA customers can save on travel by purchasing an unlimited-ride 1-Day Pass for $5 or a 3-Day Pass for $15—both offering an economical alternative to the cost and hassle of driving and parking.

The CTA strongly recommends customers allow extra travel time and plan ahead by downloading the Ventra app, which allows you to manage your Ventra account, and also features a new trip planning tool powered by Google Maps. 

CTA offers a variety of convenient payment options—from smart devices to contactless credit cards. Learn more about payment options and ways you can maximize your dollars with our lower-priced unlimited-ride passes by visiting: transitchicago.com/fares/

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced it awarded Metro a $25 million federal grant to advance the State Route 71 (SR-71) Gap Closure Phase 2 Project in the City of Pomona.  

“We are grateful to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy for providing this vital federal funding for the State Route 71 Gap Closure Phase 2 Project,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “We are also deeply appreciative of the strong support from U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff and members of the LA County Congressional Delegation.”

This project, funded in part by Measure M, will complete the final phase of improvements to the SR-71 corridor by closing a two-mile gap in the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) system. It will add one HOV lane and one mixed-flow lane in each direction, creating more than 15 miles of HOV lanes and improving connections between Los Angeles County, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

The SR-71 is a critical regional transportation corridor connecting the 1-10 and SR-60 east-west freight routes. It serves both commuters and one of the nation’s major goods movement regions, providing an important connection for freight traveling between the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and the eastern part of Los Angeles County.

The project will also improve freight movement by elevating two bridges along SR-71 to enable container stacking at and from the ports. Other improvements include replacing a pedestrian overcrossing, constructing retaining walls and sound walls, and installing landscaping to improve the surrounding communities.

The Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects (INFRA) grant program provides federal funding for multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of freight and people movement in and across rural and urban areas. The $25 million INFRA grant will reduce travel times, improve public safety by reducing collisions, and encourage economic development in a regionally and nationally significant industrial corridor with a growing logistics industry. 

We're working to help you enjoy the benefits of e-devices while making streets safer for everyone.

E-devices are an affordable way to get around, and they quickly have become an important part of our transportation network. E-devices make it easier to get up hills. They help people bridge the “last mile” to transit. And they’re practical for families.

But San Francisco has seen a sharp increase in serious injuries involving stand-up electric scooters.

That’s why we have been working closely with other city agencies to improve e-device safety. They include the Department of Public Health and the San Francisco Police Department, among others. Our efforts on this support Mayor Lurie’s Street Safety Initiative.

We want to preserve the many benefits of e-devices while keeping riders and others safe. And we’re going about it in several ways.

• A collaborative approach to e-device safety
• With the help of a new state law 
• Tips to stay safe on your e-device

Keeping communities safe with a multi-part strategy

Our public education campaign will help people understand where they can and cannot ride.

The city has been closely monitoring data around e-devices. And we have been working with other city agencies to make streets safer for everyone.

Our citywide strategy includes:

• Public education. SFPD, DPH, our teams and others have been partnering on a “Know Your Ride” campaign. This social media series breaks down the many types of e-devices. It explains requirements around age, helmets, licenses and more for each one. The campaign is critical because many riders may not know they’re breaking laws.
   
• E-Mobility Working Group. The city formed a working group with device providers, advocates and riders. Together, we are working on recommendations to raise awareness and prevent risks.
   
• Speed reduction. At the SFMTA we've been working to reduce dangerous speeding so that e-device riders and others are safer on city streets. Our speed camera program has contributed to a significant drop in car speeding in San Francisco. We are also lowering speed limits near 230 schools thanks to a new state law. Our teams will continue to look at other opportunities to reduce speeding where data shows a need.
   
• Street design. Our teams use the High Injury Network to prioritize where street design changes could help. These updates could include separated bikeways, on-street bike parking and other options. Certain e-devices can travel on bikeways and use bike parking.
   
• Enforcement. In addition to supporting public education, SFPD has been increasing enforcement. Officers focus on high-incident corridors and schools, among other areas.
   
• Data analysis. We will continue to share injury data between departments. This will help us adjust our strategy where needed.  

Increasing our impact with a new state law 

SB 1167 will help us improve safety across shared and privately-owned e-devices.

A new state law, SB 1167, will help us improve e-device safety in a few key ways.

• The law makes the rules clearer around what is a legal e-bike vs. a high-powered vehicle.
• It strengthens accountability for products that are not properly labeled or marketed.
• And it improves the quality of information available to regulators and law enforcement.

This law will give city agencies better data. That will help improve our public education and our shared mobility programs. City partners will also be able to make more informed calls on infrastructure and safety investments. 

With better data, it will be easier for us to keep communities safe.

The e-mobility basics

Protected bikeways are a good option for people riding legal e-devices.

Most of all, we want to give you practical tips to stay safe! 

There are some basic rules for riding any e-device in San Francisco. 

• Yield for pedestrians
• Obey all traffic laws
• Never ride while under the influence
• Never ride on the sidewalk
• Ride in the direction of traffic
• Park responsibly and keep sidewalks clear

Helmets are required for all riders under 18 and strongly recommended for riders of any age or experience level. 

Not sure if you’re riding a more powerful e-device? Check out the California DMV’s page on Motorcycles, Mopeds and Scooters. 

E-devices have found their place in San Francisco. So, we’re working as a city to make sure you feel safe and confident riding them and sharing space with them.

Green and Pink Line service changes begin October 13, after the Chicago Marathon

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) are preparing for the temporary closure of the Lake Street Bridge beginning at 2 a.m. Tuesday, October 13, as crews replace the bridge’s west leaf and complete related rail work. Green and Pink Line service changes will begin at 4 a.m. October 13.

Work is scheduled to be complete at 4 a.m. Monday, October 26, 2026.

These service changes will not affect CTA service before or during the October 11 Chicago Marathon.

What customers need to know

Tuesday, October 13, through Friday, October 23: Lake Street Bridge work

• Green Line: Trains will operate between Harlem/Lake and Clinton, and separately between Clark/Lake and the South Side terminals. Shuttle buses will carry customers between Clinton and Clark/Lake. Customers traveling across the affected area should transfer between the train and shuttle bus at those stations.
• Pink Line: Trains will operate between 54th/Cermak and the Racine Blue Line station. Customers traveling to or from downtown can transfer between Pink and Blue Line trains at Racine. Pink Line trains will not operate around the Loop during this period.

CTA will have a comprehensive signage plan to guide customers through the service changes, including signs at station entrances, transfer points and shuttle connections. Customer alerts, train and platform announcements, and printed information will provide additional trip guidance.

CTA information specialists are scheduled to visit Green and Pink Line stations on October 6, 7 and 12, before work begins. Information specialists will also be at Polk, Clinton, Clark/Lake and the Racine Blue Line station on October 13 and 14, as the service changes take effect.

Riders should plan ahead, allow additional travel time and check CTA travel alerts before beginning their trips. Detailed train and shuttle schedules, shuttle stop locations and recommended travel options will be provided before the closure begins.

The work will include:

• Removing the existing west leaf of the Lake Street Bridge.
• Using crane and support barges to remove existing components and position the replacement bridge leaf.
• Stabilizing and aligning the new bridge components.
• Reconstructing CTA rails, ties, guard systems, walkways and associated bridge hardware.
• Reconnecting and testing CTA power and signal systems.
• Operating test trains to confirm proper alignment and readiness before regular service resumes.

Additional information about the construction project and its transportation impacts will be posted at the CDOT project webpage and transitchicago.com/lakebridge⁠.

Scenic special MBTA train ride connects passengers to guided bicycle tour or car-free afternoon in Newburyport.

The MBTA today announced that its second annual Fall Rail Ride will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026. Departing from North Station and operating express to Newburyport, this “Rails & Trails” train will connect riders with a guided autumnal bicycle tour along scenic municipal bike trails or offer passengers a car-free afternoon to enjoy all that Newburyport has to offer. More information is available at mbta.com/FallRide.

“We are excited to again offer this special Fall Rail Ride to the public, and we encourage passengers to buy their tickets as soon as they can – last year’s Fall Rail Ride sold out quickly! With so much to enjoy in Massachusetts all year long, the Commuter Rail offers the public a truly unique way to experience the spirit and beauty of the autumn season,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “Much like our CapeFLYER, Haunted Happenings, football trains, and other special event services, the Fall Rail Ride is another great example of the many ways the public can utilize mass transportation. More than just commuting for work, it connects communities and allows friends and families to enjoy all the fall festivities that New England has to offer. We thank our partners at MassDOT, the city of Newburyport, and Keolis for collaborating with us on this year’s special offering, and we look forward to continuing this annual tradition at the T.”  

Train Information

The Fall Rail Ride will operate direct between North Station and Newburyport, departing North Station at 11 AM and arriving at noon. The ticket cost includes the return trip, departing Newburyport at 4 PM and arriving back at North Station at 5 PM.  

Round-trip tickets for the Fall Rail Ride are $20 each and will be sold exclusively on the mTicket app beginning at 11 AM on Monday, October 19, 2026. Passengers are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance – last year’s Fall Rail Ride sold out quickly.

Passengers can choose between a Passenger Only ticket to enjoy an afternoon in Newburyport, or a Passenger + Bike ticket to bring a bike aboard the train. The train includes special bicycle coaches able to accommodate 75 bikes, a café car stocked with local beers from breweries along the Newburyport line and a fall-themed menu of items available for purchase, and children will receive a free activity bag onboard to enjoy on the trip. A t-shirt to commemorate the experience will also be available for purchase on board the train within the café car.

The Fall Rail Ride ticket also functions as a Weekend Commuter Rail Pass, allowing passengers to access the entire Commuter Rail network for the entire weekend, November 7 – 8.  

Bicycle Tour and Car-Free Afternoon Information

Passengers with bicycles will be offered an autumnal and picturesque guided tour by MassDOT staff along the area’s most scenic trails. A map of the bike trail ride is available here. An extremely limited number of bicycles will also be available for rent through Port Bikeshare.

Passengers without bicycles can also enjoy the Clipper City Rail Trail on foot from Newburyport Station to Newburyport’s downtown area, which is about a 25-minute walk (approximately one mile). Merrimack Valley Transit (MEVA) Regional Transit Authority vehicles will also be onsite to assist passengers with travel options between the station and downtown for the afternoon. For a convenient list of places to visit in Newburyport, visit massbytrain.com/stations/newburyport/.  

The MBTA today announced that its second biannual Private Fixed Routes Survey is available for feedback beginning today. Aimed at engaging with riders to improve the service and routing of Bus Routes 712, 713, 714, and 716, the MBTA is encouraging riders of these routes to send their comments to the MBTA at MBTA.com/PrivateFixedRouteSurvey. These routes serve Winthrop, Hull, Canton, Mattapan, and East Boston areas.

Bus Routes 712, 713, 714, and 716 are fixed bus routes that are operated by private contractor services. The objectives of the Private Fixed Routes Survey are to:

• Understand the desired origins/destinations of riders who use these bus routes 
• Identify any destinations riders would like improved connections with 
• Obtain service-related feedback from riders so the MBTA can further improve their journeys
• Assess how satisfaction rates have changed from 2024 to 2026 following service changes that have been implemented, including the service improvement pilot on the 714 and 716 

The survey will be available until the MBTA has received its target response rate. Participants will be entered into a raffle to receive a $20 Visa gift card.  

New schedules take effect on October 26.

The MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the T's operations and maintenance partner for Commuter Rail, announced today that Fall/Winter Commuter Rail schedules will take effect on Monday, October 26. Schedules for all lines will be available soon at MBTA.com/CR. The Fall/Winter schedule maintains consistent service throughout the day, late at night, and on weekends.

Schedules will not change on the Fall River/New Bedford, Framingham/Worcester, Greenbush, and Kingston lines.

On the Fitchburg, Haverhill, Lowell, Needham, Newburyport/Rockport, and Providence/Stoughton lines, several trains will depart earlier or later than in the current schedule to improve resiliency, better reflect operating conditions, and to align with Amtrak schedules.

The Franklin/Foxboro Line will remain on a construction schedule while important track work is completed, and some train departure times have been adjusted.

Train numbers on all lines will also change with the implementation of the Fall/Winter schedule.

Passengers are encouraged to review the new schedules ahead of October 26 to plan their trips.

The Mass by Train website has itineraries, trip ideas, and information about riding the Commuter Rail to destinations across Eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

CTA welcomes neighbors to the office, providing in-person opportunities to learn about the RLE project

The CTA’s Red Line Extension (RLE) project today held a grand opening celebration for the new RLE Community Office in Roseland, where residents, businesses, stakeholders and the public can talk with CTA staff about the historic RLE project – from construction to career and small business opportunities.

The new office at 401 W. 111^th St. is in the center of the Red Line Extension project area, serving residents and CTA riders in Roseland, Washington Heights, West Pullman and Riverdale. The grand opening event was attended by local residents and community leaders, featuring food, CTA mini-bus rides, music and games.

The CTA in April broke ground on the Red Line Extension, which is the largest transit investment in agency history. It will extend the Red Line from the existing terminal at 95th/Dan Ryan to 130th Street. The 5.5-mile extension will include four new fully accessible stations near 103rd Street, 111th Street, Michigan Avenue, and 130th Street.

“The Red Line Extension is delivering on a promise to the Far South Side and expanding access to jobs, education and opportunity,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “As we build the largest transit investment in CTA history, we are committed to keeping residents informed and connecting them with the opportunities this project creates. This community office puts our team directly in the project area we are serving, making it easier for residents and local businesses to get answers, share ideas and help shape the project’s success.”

“The RLE Community Office will be a tremendous resource to our residents,” said Ald. Ronnie L. Mosley, 21^st Ward. “I applaud the CTA for its commitment to the communities the Red Line Extension will serve.”

“The opening of this community office is another important step toward completing the Red Line Extension—a once-in-a-generation investment that will help transform the Far South Side and strengthen the future of our entire city,” said Ald. Anthony A. Beale, 9^th Ward. “This office will put information, resources and a voice within reach of residents—helping them understand the project, stay informed and make sure their communities are ready to benefit from the jobs, investment and opportunity it will bring.”

“The opening of the RLE Community Office means that this much-needed mass transit project is well on its way,” said Ald. Peter Chico, 10^th Ward. “This new rapid rail service will significantly increase connectivity for people on the Far South Side, include Altgeld Gardens and surrounding neighborhoods, to the rest of the city.”

RLE Community Office events

The Community Office will serve multiple purposes for residents and CTA riders on the Far South Side, including as a central meeting place to share ideas and talk through questions. The office’s uses include:

• Monthly “Workforce Connections” events the first Tuesday of every month to provide personalized guidance for individuals interested in careers in transit and construction (upcoming dates include October 6, November 3, and December 1)
• CTA-hosted events for groups interested in learning more about the project
• Community groups seeking meeting space in the project’s footprint

The office is open Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment. It will remain open until the RLE project is completed in 2030.

The RLE Community Office complements the project’s regular outreach efforts, which include:

• Community meetings
• Construction Activity Notices online and posted in the communities where work is occurring
• Regular project updates via email and on transitchicago.com/RLE
• RLE social media accounts: @CTARLE on Facebook and Instagram
• RLE ambassadors at many neighborhood events
• Interactive RLE construction map

Project overview

The RLE project will:

• Build a 5.5-mile extension of the Red Line starting at 95th Street Terminal to 130th Street.
• Include four new accessible stations near 103rd Street, 111th Street, Michigan Avenue (near 116^th), and 130th Street, each of which will include bus, bike, pedestrian and parking facilities.
• Build a new rail yard and rail maintenance facility to improve operational efficiency for the entire Red Line and CTA system.
• The new extension and stations are expected to be completed and in service in 2030.

For more information about the RLE project, visit transitchicago.com/RLE. The public can sign up for project alerts here.

More art is coming to Metro facilities across the region thanks to changes to the Art in Transit program. In a first for the Art in Transit program, Metro is building a pool of local artists and artworks that may be selected for future temporary installations and digital displays at Metro stations, facilities, and customer-facing spaces. Through the “Created Together: Your Art. Your Community. Your Metro.” initiative, the Art in Transit program will focus on more localized and community-based art collaborations.  

“The DMV is home to an extraordinary community of artists, and Metro is uniquely positioned to bring their work to millions of customers each year,” said Sarah Meyer, Metro Chief Customer Officer. “Art in Transit allows us to showcase the creativity and culture of our region while creating spaces throughout the system that are welcoming, engaging, and representative of the communities we connect every day.”

To publicly kick off the “Created Together” initiative, Metro is partnering with Theatre Washington to celebrate community and art during Theatre Week. Live performances, community activities and other treats will take place at Eastern Market station on Oct. 6. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

The first project under the new “Created Together” initiative will be installed at Deanwood Metro Rail Station. The project will transform two station passageways with a large-scale temporary art installation that celebrates the history, culture, creativity, and people of Deanwood. Community members are also encouraged to submit feedback to help shape the project. Local artists may also submit their work for consideration.  More information is available here. Submissions will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Oct. 12.

Metro aims to host four visual art projects and four live performances at its facilities throughout the system in the next year, and we want to hear from community members to determine what they would like to see at their bus stops and rail stations.

In the past, Metro contracted with artists on a project-by-project basis. This database of artists, designers, photographers, poets, illustrators, and interdisciplinary creatives will allow Metro to select projects that meet the needs of the community in which they will be displayed in a more timely manner. Emerging local artists and established professionals from across the region are encouraged to submit their work.  The Art in Transit program is open to individual artists as well as artist teams. For more information about this open call, please visit: Art in Transit Open Call for Artwork.

Free rides and extra service planned on CTA and Metra for NU vs. Penn State

Northwestern football fans will finally be able to enjoy the new Ryan Field when the Wildcats take on Penn State at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, and the secret to a stress-free game experience is taking public transportation.

Longtime fans know that traffic and limited parking are among the least enjoyable parts of the experience. Why endure that aggravation when the CTA Purple Line and the Metra UP North Line, with connecting Pace buses, can deliver you to stations on Central Street, steps away from the new field?

Thanks to a partnership with The Ryan Field Foundation, riders who show their game tickets can ride for free on the Metra UP Metra North Line to and from the game. And

Metra will have an additional inbound train making all stops to Ogilvie and an extra outbound train making all stops to Waukegan waiting after the game at its Central Street Station, just west of the field. The trains will depart from Central Street about 30 minutes after the game ends. Metra plans to offer extra service following the team’s remaining home games at Ryan Field this season.

CTA will provide Purple Line Express service to Ryan Field to get fans to the game PLUS CTA will also provide Purple Line Express trips at the end of the game. After the game, fans boarding the Purple Line Express at Central Station will get a free ride funded by The Ryan Field Foundation for approximately one-hour post-game or roughly 10 p.m. to 11 p.m.   

Fans can use Pace local service to connect with Metra and CTA and reach Ryan Field from throughout the region. Routes 208, 213 and 250, along with the Pulse Dempster Line, connect riders with downtown Evanston at the Davis Street CTA Purple Line and Metra UP North stations. From Davis Street, riders can transfer to the CTA Purple Line and exit at Central Street, a short walk from the stadium, or take CTA Route 201, which directly serves both downtown Evanston and Ryan Field. Fans can also take the UP North Line from Davis St. to Central Street. Pace Route 213 provides another option, with service along Green Bay Road and a stop at Central Street near Ryan Field.

“Metra’s UP North Line can get you to and from the new Ryan Field without all the stress and cost of driving,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski. “They’re comfortable, affordable, and with our extra service, convenient. Using public transportation to get there is the right choice.”

“A world-class stadium deserves world-class access to public transportation, and the CTA is proud to join Metra and Pace in playing a central role in connecting fans to this historic new chapter in Northwestern’s history,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “Every train and bus arriving at or near the new stadium represents an important connection between the whole Chicago region and this great university.”

“Major events like these are a great opportunity to leave the driving to someone else and take advantage of the region’s connected transit network,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “Pace is proud to join CTA and Metra in helping fans travel to Ryan Field safely, conveniently and affordably.”

“This level of coordination to get fans to Ryan Field and home again safely and seamlessly is a big win for the region,” said NITA Interim Executive Director Jamie Rhee. “This is the kind of collaboration and convenience riders can expect in this new era for Chicago public transportation.”

Don’t forget to save money with Metra’s Day Pass, good for unlimited rides all day, which can be purchased from vending machines or on the Ventra app (download it from the App Store or Google Play). Ventra app users can save even more money by purchasing the Regional Day Pass option that allows Metra Day Pass buyers to add unlimited travel on CTA and Pace for an additional $2.50.

For specific Metra schedule information, go to metra.com. For CTA service information, visit transitchicago.com/schedules. For Pace service information, go to pacebus.com.

By working together on service, the region’s three transit providers are embodying the mission of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act to provide a coordinated transit system that improves service for public transit riders and all residents of Northeast Illinois. 

Transit Mechanic Niño Ramos calls his position at the SFMTA a dream job. 

You may never see them, but they are a critical part of your Muni ride.

Our mechanics, welders, inspectors and other maintenance staff keep our transit system in good shape. Their work helps ensure that Muni is there when you need it. 

We recently had a chance to catch up with a couple SFMTA mechanics at our Presidio bus yard. We wanted to hear directly from them about what they do.

Vehicles that are in working order

“My job here [at] Muni is pretty much inspecting the bus,” Mechanic Niño Ramos told us. “I make sure there are no defects on the bus, especially if there's anything loose on the ceiling or somewhere on the side. [I make] sure everything is perfect, [and that] all the seats are okay to sit on.”

To Ramos, his position is a dream job. “I love being a mechanic because ever since I was little, I've always liked taking things apart, putting things together, especially cars,” he explained. “Little cars, toy cars, whatever it is, as long as it's near cars, then I'm happy to be there.”

Ramos also recognizes that he plays an important role in keeping the city moving. “Muni helps a lot of people get places, especially elder people,” he said. “People with no cars that don't drive, and especially kids that go to school. They take the bus wherever they need to go.”

Transit Mechanic Wen Huang takes his responsibility to ensure the safety of our vehicles seriously.

Protecting your safety

Safety and efficiency are on Mechanic Wen Huang’s mind while he’s on the job. “We make sure [every bus is] safe so it can go out there,” Huang said.

“My job is moving buses around,” Huang explained. “The [defective buses] go to a certain area. The good [buses] go to certain area.”

Keeping the yard organized helps maintenance work get done. “I make sure all those [buses] get fixed,” he told us. “So, all those riders will be on a safe bus all the time.”

Huang is also a Muni rider, himself. So, he can experience the benefits of his labor. “I take the 1 [California] line,” he said. “I take the N Judah.”

And Huang knows that the role he plays in Muni’s safety is part of a bigger picture. “I want to make sure the whole city is safe,” he said. “I see a lot of people everywhere. There's so much traffic around. I want those people to [be] safe and sound.”

Ensuring a smooth ride

Muni was the first public transit system to operate in a major U.S. city. We have been around for more than a hundred years, and we intend to be around for years to come.

We can do it, as long as we keep up our maintenance.

New northbound bus lane between Roosevelt Road and Wacker Drive will improve efficiency for CTA riders

Mayor Brandon Johnson today joined the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), and Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) in announcing a new dedicated bus lane on northbound Michigan Avenue between Roosevelt Road and Wacker Drive. CDOT will install the nearly 1.5-mile lane, which will help reduce delays and keep buses moving along this key downtown route.

“Reliable and accessible public transportation is essential to a city that works for everyone,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Chicagoans depend on our buses every day to get to work, attend school, access essential services and connect with their communities. By creating a dedicated bus lane on Michigan Avenue, we are making a critical investment in reducing delays, improving service and ensuring that the thousands of residents who rely on public transit can get where they need to go. We are committed to building a safer, more accessible and more connected transportation system that puts the needs of working people first.”

Michigan Avenue in the Loop is one of the busiest spots in the CTA bus system, with 1,490 buses on 21 different routes using at least part of the new bus lane. Four of the routes — #4 Cottage Grove, #J14 Jeffrey Jump, #20 Madison, and #60 Blue Island/26th — are part of CTA’s burgeoning Frequent Network, with service every 10 minutes or better between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. An estimated 22,000 bus riders travel through the segment every weekday and will experience the benefits of the new bus lane — more than 7 million riders annually. During the morning rush, CTA buses carry an estimated 35 percent of all trips on Michigan Avenue but make up only 3 percent of the vehicles.

“CTA's buses will be faster and more reliable as a direct result of this new Michigan Avenue bus lane.  The benefits of the bus lane will have ripple effects across CTA's entire network and make traveling easier for the thousands of riders every day, including doctors, students, tourists, and many others who rely on the bus to get where they need to go,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “This bright red bus lane in the heart of the city sends an important message to residents and visitors alike that public transit is a priority for our region.”

This week, CDOT will begin installing new pavement markings and signage to clearly identify the bus lane. Work will take place overnight and is expected to be completed over the next seven to ten days, weather permitting.

"Michigan Avenue is one of the busiest corridors in the region, and every minute we save here adds up for the thousands of riders who use it every day,” said NITA interim Executive Director Jamie Rhee. “This new dedicated bus lane is the kind of change that NITA was created to deliver — working hand-in-hand with CDOT, IDOT and CTA to make travel faster, safer and more reliable for everyone who rides."

“Creating a stronger transportation network means making sure our streets work better for people riding buses,” said CDOT Commissioner William Cheaks, Jr. “This new lane will help keep hundreds of buses and the thousands of people who ride them moving along this busy downtown corridor. We’re proud to deliver this improvement through close coordination among agencies.”

Michigan Avenue is under IDOT’s jurisdiction, and CDOT worked closely with the agency to develop and secure approval for the project. 

“Under Gov. Pritzker, IDOT is committed to partnering with our cities to help them meet their goals for mobility and safety,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “This addition to Michigan Avenue promises to be the first of many under NITA to strengthen and support more efficient transit along major corridors in Chicago and throughout the region.”

Following installation, CDOT and CTA will conduct field observations and collect data over the first six months to evaluate bus travel times, schedule reliability, traffic operations, safety and other conditions along the corridor. The agencies will use the findings to identify any adjustments that may be needed.

To help keep the lane clear for buses, the new Michigan Avenue bus lane is within the enforcement area of the Smart Streets Pilot Program. The program uses camera technology to enforce parking and standing restrictions in bus lanes, bike lanes and at bus stops, helping ensure Chicago’s growing network of bus and bike lanes works as intended.

Dedicated bus lanes are one of several tools Chicago is using to advance a citywide vision for safer, more efficient, and better organized streets for all road users.  Through the Better Streets for Buses program and other collaboration between CDOT and CTA, Chicago is using a range of infrastructure treatments, including dedicated bus lanes, traffic signal improvements, bus boarding islands and other transit-priority measures, to reduce delays and make bus service faster and more reliable for riders.

Community Magazine debuted last year. It focuses on Muni and what the system brings to the experience of living in San Francisco.

Where do you find community? One place Jac Matter Resnik finds it is on Muni. That’s why she created Community, a magazine that celebrates our transit system.

Resnik joins us on the new episode of the Taken with Transportation podcast to talk about her publication. “I think Community really encompasses not only the Muni system, but San Francisco as a city, as an ecosystem,” she says.

“It started as a passion project,” Resnik adds. “But it's turned into, pun intended, a really great community of people that I would have never met otherwise.”

Need something to read while you wait for Muni? The producers of Community hope you’ll choose their magazine.

The village that creates Community

Resnik produces Community with Jack Sloop, who describes himself as the magazine’s designer in chief.

“I’ve done a ton of magazines for a ton of different community organizations in the past,” Sloop explains in the episode. “And this was exactly what I was looking for: transit, San Francisco and a writer who … is talented beyond belief.”

In addition to Sloop, more than two dozen writers and contributors make Community what it is. One of them is Lia Smith. She’s the author of the book Muni is My Ride.

“It's really amazing how many people … are Muni fans [and] Muni advocates,” Smith says. “Something's happening. And Jac is contributing to that.”

We also talk with SFMTA Digital and Brand Communications Manager Dovid Coplon in the episode. He discusses the popularity of Muni merchandise and how it can help create community. 

Muni Is My Ride author Lia Smith. You can find excerpts from her book in Community.

How to listen

Like the magazine, this latest Taken with Transportation episode also is called “Community.” You can find it on our podcast webpage (SFMTA.com/Podcast) and the SFMTA YouTube Channel. We’re also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart and other podcast platforms.

PHILADELPHIA (September 24, 2026) – SEPTA today awarded a contract to the City of Philadelphia for the long-term lease of the former Shawmont Station along the Manayunk/Norristown Regional Rail Line.

Built in the 1820s, the former Shawmont Station is recognized as the oldest passenger railroad station in the country. The station building has been closed to the public since 1991, and service to the station stopped in 1996.

“This lease will save SEPTA nearly $1 million in improvement costs and eliminate our future maintenance obligations, while facilitating the preservation of a historic rail asset,” said SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr.

Under this agreement, the City will pay SEPTA $1 per year for 20 years with one five-year renewal option. The City intends to sublease the property, located at 7700 Nixon Street, to the Historic Shawmont Station Society. The nonprofit organization plans to restore and operate the historic station building as a museum and community learning center.

The City will be responsible for all expenses associated with renovating the station building. SEPTA estimates the cost to restore the building for occupancy at approximately $972,000.

“We look forward to returning a long-vacant building to productive use, reducing the potential for vandalism, and enhancing a prominent property located near the entrance to the Schuylkill River Trail,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer.

Between 2021 and 2023, SEPTA completed repairs to the exterior of the Shawmont Station to stabilize the structure and help prevent further deterioration.

SEPTA worked closely with local elected officials, community organizations, and preservation advocates due to the station’s historical significance. The agreement will go before Philadelphia City Council for approval.

Job seekers can connect directly with employers offering opportunities across transportation, healthcare, construction, government and other industries

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), in partnership with local government agencies, nonprofit organizations and private-sector employers, will host the Fall 2026 Citywide Career Fair on Wednesday, September 30, at Kennedy-King College on Chicago’s South Side.

The career fair will connect hundreds of job seekers with employers and workforce resources representing a broad range of industries, including transportation, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, security, retail, education, banking and government. Attendees are encouraged to review the list of participating employers at www.chicityclerk.com/citywidecareerfair.

Event Details:

Wednesday, September 30, 2026

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Kennedy King College

 U-Building

740 W. 63rd St, Chicago, IL 60621

“CTA’s role in Chicago extends beyond providing public transit services—we help connect people to opportunity,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “A strong transit system and a strong workforce go hand-in-hand with a strong city. This career fair brings employers and talented job seekers together, creating pathways to good careers, greater economic opportunity and a stronger future for Chicago and the communities we serve.”

More than 60 employers and resource agencies are expected to participate, representing thousands of available employment opportunities. Several participating employers will conduct on-site interviews and may extend conditional job offers during the event.

“Chicago residents are looking for a break, and at a time when families are facing challenges nationally and here at home, we’re willing to be the leaders who open doors to opportunity and connect our neighborhoods with meaningful careers,” said City Clerk Anna Valencia. “This citywide career fair is about helping people find not just a job, but their passion—unlocking the talent that already exists in our communities and creating pathways for Chicagoans and their families to not only succeed but thrive.”

“Cara Collective is honored to support the Citywide Career Fair,” said Cara Collective President and CEO Karin M. Norington-Reaves. “We believe meaningful partnerships like this are essential to creating greater access to opportunity. By working alongside City Clerk Anna Valencia, the Clerk’s Office, and other community organizations, we can help ensure that all job seekers, including those overcoming significant challenges, have access to employers, resources, and connections that help change the trajectory of their lives.”

"This job fair represents what we can achieve when we work collaboratively with public agencies, the private sector, and community organizations, coming together with a shared purpose,” said Civilian Office of Police Accountability, Chief Lakenya White. “The purpose is simple but powerful, to ensure opportunity is accessible, inclusive, and impactful."

Participating organizations include CTA, the Office of Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia, City Colleges of Chicago, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, Civilian Office of Police Accountability, Skills for Chicagoland’s Future, Illinois Tollway, Pace Suburban Bus, Chicago Police Department and others.

Attendees will be able to connect directly with hiring employers, learn about available positions and explore career pathways across multiple industries. Workforce and resource organizations will also be available to provide information about employment preparation, training and other supportive services.

Job seekers are strongly encouraged to review available positions and apply in advance to increase their chances of securing an interview or conditional offer during the event.

Pre-registration is open but not required. Job seekers may register here: Fall 2026 Citywide Career Fair - Attendee Registration.

For support with resumes and interviewing, participants can visit their neighborhood American Job Center and, for free Wi-Fi and computer access to complete online job applications, visit their neighborhood Chicago Public Library.

You can play Muni Routle any time, including while you wait for your bus or train.

Call it a match made in transit heaven.

Muni Routle’s official home is now the SFMTA website. It's a Transit Month surprise and the perfect game to play during your next adventure on Muni. It’s also a fun way to master Muni’s expansive system.

Our website is just the right place for that.

Our new favorite game is born

Muni Routle was created in 2024 by River Honer, a software engineer who studied Urban Planning at San Francisco State University. She was living in London at the time and was inspired by Metrodle, a transit-themed spinoff of Wordle that focuses on London Underground stations.

"Muni is very much about the routes, which have iconic names and which locals can trace out from memory," said Honer. "So, I thought this would be a great idea to try.".

Routle gives players five guesses to identify one of nearly 60 Muni routes drawn over a blank map of the city. It pays homage to a system that's long defined life in San Francisco.

"I hope the game inspires people to talk about Muni more,” Honer explained. “Muni is important to the culture of the city. And I wanted to make something to celebrate it."

Since creating Muni Routle, Honer has launched versions in Portland and Seattle. The new games have been well received, but San Francisco continues to have the most users. 

How many guesses will it take you to identify the Muni Routle line or route of the day?

Muni in art, culture and fashion

Muni Routle is one of many Muni inspired works created by our riders and peer organizations. Other Muni partner collaborations and fan creations include:

• San Francisco City Football Club’s “Worm” logo jerseys
• The “Hop on Muni” IPA by Standard Deviant Brewing
• Muni Diaries
• Muni Music
• The Muni Run Club 

We are always looking for creative ways to engage Muni riders. Just under two years ago, we launched the Muni Store, a one-stop shop for Muni merchandise. And we’ve organized events that have been popular with Muni fans. You can check out our Transit Month blog to see what we've been up to recently. 

Muni is a space to connect and make memories. It resonates with people even after they've moved to a new city, just like it did with River Honer. Now living in Berlin, Honer believes it’s more important than ever to use technology to promote local causes.

"Something that I realized this game has done since making it, is contribute to civic discourse around public transit," she said. "Public transit agencies, like sports teams or iconic parks, contribute to city pride."

You can show some of your San Francisco pride and test your Muni knowledge with Routle. Find it on our Routle webpage (SFMTA.com/Routle).

Metro has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking a qualified development team to transform Metro-owned property next to Braddock Rd station in the City of Alexandria into a new mixed-use, transit-oriented development.

The approximately 3.4-acre property presents an opportunity to bring new housing, neighborhood-serving retail, and other amenities close to public transportation while improving connections between the station and surrounding neighborhood.

The vision for the future development is a connected, walkable destination with active ground-floor amenities, inviting public spaces, and strong pedestrian and bicycle connections to the station and surrounding neighborhood. Metro's planning analysis indicates the property could support approximately 420,000 square feet of development and up to approximately 380 residences and 21,000 square feet of retail. Metro welcomes creative development and financing approaches.

“Braddock Rd is an opportunity to transform underused transit property into a walkable, mixed-use destination that brings more homes and neighborhood-serving amenities close to reliable transit,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. “We are looking for a development partner with the creativity, experience, and financial capacity to deliver a project that strengthens the station, supports Alexandria’s growth, and creates long-term value for Metro and the region.”

Located at 720 North West Street, Braddock Rd station is served by the Blue and Yellow lines and multiple Metro Bus routes. More than 1.3 million jobs are accessible within a 30-minute commute, with downtown Washington less than 20 minutes away by Metro Rail.

As part of the joint development, the selected developer would also deliver improvements to transit facilities including the station's bus loop and Kiss & Ride area.

Metro's joint development program leverages private investment to bring housing, jobs, retail, and services closer to transit while generating revenue and ridership for Metro and new tax revenue for local and regional partners.

“This opportunity reflects Alexandria’s commitment to creating vibrant, transit-oriented neighborhoods that connect people to housing, jobs, and local businesses. Braddock Rd station site has tremendous potential to welcome new residents, strengthen our local economy, and build on the walkable character that makes this community unique. We look forward to seeing innovative proposals that deliver benefits for both Alexandria and the region,” said Canek Aguirre, Alexandria City Council Member and WMATA Board Alternate Director.

The Braddock Rd solicitation advances Metro's 10-Year Strategic Plan for Joint Development, which established a goal of advancing 20 joint development projects by 2032.

Joint development is an important part of Metro's strategy to make the region more connected and transit-oriented. By working with private developers and regional partners, Metro is making better use of transit-owned property, creating opportunities for more people to live and work near transit, increasing ridership, and generating long-term value for the region.

Interested developers may view the Braddock Road Joint Development Solicitation.

To learn more about current and future Metro joint development opportunities, visit wmata.com/realestate.

To view details of the site plan, environmental evaluation, staff report, and more, visit proposed changes. 

D Line Ridership Increases a Whopping 71.6% on Sundays, Continuing Trend of Rising Weekend Leisure Travel

LOS ANGELES (Sept. 23, 2026) – LA County sizzled in the August heat, but temperatures weren’t the only hot thing in August – Metro ridership was 26,565,486, an increase of more than 5% from August 2025. Increases were similar on weekdays and Saturdays at 5.05% and 5.85%, respectively, with a slightly larger increase on Sundays at 6.15%, demonstrating that passengers are relying more on Metro for leisure activities.

Overall, August ridership averaged 608,366 boardings on Sundays and 702,526 boardings on Saturdays. The average weekday boardings were 952,906.

August was filled with many events including KCON in downtown LA, Rams and Chargers pre-season games at SoFi Stadium, the Nisei Week Parade in Little Tokyo, DayTrip in the Park at the LA State Historic Park, the Pomona Swap Meet and Classic Car Show at the LA Fairplex, and the Just Like Heaven Music Festival at the Rose Bowl. August also marked the beginning of classes for the county’s school districts, including LA Unified School District. There were 1,538,572 boardings using GoPass, which gives free transit to students in grades K through community college at participating schools.

Rail Ridership is on the Rise

Rail ridership continued its growth in August, rising 12.1% over August 2025 to 6,458,238. Sundays saw the highest growth at 17.1%, with average boardings of 168,243. This marks the first time Metro heavy rail has seen Sundays beat Saturdays in boardings. Continuing that trend, the D lines saw a whopping 71.62% growth on Sundays and averaged 16,417 boardings.

Other year-over-year rail ridership highlights include:

• A line ridership increased 14.3% to 2,106,929, and Saturdays grew nearly 17% to 59,315 average ridership
• B line ridership increased by 6% in August to 1,420,635. The biggest growth came on Sundays, up 32.4% to an average ridership of 46,815.
• D line growth skyrocketed by nearly 63% to 650,857. The increases were significant every day of the week, with Sundays rising 71.62%, weekdays 63.17%, and Saturdays 54.37%.
• E line ridership was 1,579,553, a 10% increase, with weekdays showing the strongest growth at 11.27% to 55,043 average ridership.

Bus Ridership Continues to Grow

Bus ridership rose 3.3%  year over year, with 3.37% increases on both weekdays and Saturdays: weekday ridership averaged 729,858, and Saturday ridership averaged 515,923. The J line, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), was up 4.4%. Total bus ridership in August was 20,107,248.

Public Safety on MetroMetro has continued its focus on making the system safer for riders and employees by maintaining a visible, engaged presence of uniformed personnel, strengthening access control, and partnering with the County, the Cities, and Regional Agencies to address societal issues.

Maintaining a visible presence is crucial to enhancing both system safety and perceptions of safety. In July, enforcement activity included 662 arrests, 587 citations, and 4,480 Code of Conduct removals.

Metro’s Homeless Outreach and Mobile Engagement (HOME) team engaged 295 individuals experiencing homelessness in July, resulting in 191 interim and 31 permanent housing placements through coordination with regional service providers. In FY26, the HOME teams placed 2,705 individuals in interim or permanent housing, exceeding their goal of 2,100 housing placements through June. For FY27, 222 people have been connected to interim or permanent housing, with the goal of 2,400 housing placements for the new fiscal year.

As a result of these continued efforts, overall crime on the system decreased 24% in July 2026 compared to the previous July. In addition, July 2026 had the lowest total rate of violent crimes for a July since 2023. The system had 99.997% incident-free trips.

PHILADELPHIA (September 22, 2026) – SEPTA today announced Accelerate – the Authority’s vision for safe, reliable and accessible service.

With help from its partners, SEPTA can deliver modern stations, state-of-the-art vehicles and best-in-class transit service for the 800,000 daily riders who keep the region moving.

Watch the the recorded press conference on the SEPTA Media Relations YouTube channel

“After years of chronic underfunding, the moment to choose acceleration over managed decline is now,” said SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. “We recognize that if greater investment is the key to our future success, then SEPTA must demonstrate that we are worthy investment partners. We are proud to be one of the most efficient transit systems in the country, and while there remains more work to do, the evidence demonstrates that we are good stewards of the public funding we receive.”

SEPTA is planning a sustained set of investments over the next decade, including:

• Trolley Modernization: Modernizing one of the nation’s most extensive streetcar networks through accessible stations and the purchase of 130 new low-floor trolleys
• Modern Metro: Purchasing 200 new subway cars for the [Market-Frankford Line], which are set to start arriving in 2029, with new vehicles for the [Broad Street Line] and [Norristown High Speed Line] to follow in the years ahead
• Reimagining Regional Rail: Launching the formal bid process for the acquisition of 230 new Silverliner VI Regional Rail cars that will provide 15-minute or better service at nearly half of the approximately 150 stations
• New Bus Network: Investing in new transit centers for bus riders and increasing the number of frequent bus routes from 8 to 29

“Imagine a world where SEPTA is a reason to move here, work here, and locate or expand a business here,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “Our region deserves and demands a transit system that works better for more people. From planning their trip to the moment they reach their destination, every part of the journey will be safer, more reliable, and fully accessible. We are already at work to bring this vision to reality.”

“If we want to grow our economy and create good jobs, we need a transit system that gets people where they need to go,” said Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager of the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council. “Accelerate is about modernizing SEPTA, investing in working people, and building a stronger future for our region. This is the kind of investment we need to make sure people have access to the jobs and economic growth they deserve.”

“Every day, SEPTA carries people to the care they need and brings nearly 8,000 of Penn Medicine employees to the hospitals and clinics where they provide it,” said Kevin B. Mahoney, CEO, University of Pennsylvania Health System. “A strong, reliable public transportation system is essential to a healthy, thriving community. SEPTA’s Accelerate plan invests in access, opportunity, and the long-term vitality of southeastern Pennsylvania, and our region will be better for it.”

“At Jefferson Health, we’re committed to being the most accessible health system in the country — and we can’t do that without a transit system that’s equally accessible,” said Dr. Joseph Cacchione, CEO, Jefferson. “Thousands of our colleagues ride SEPTA to work each day, and countless patients ride SEPTA to get the care they depend on. Transportation should never be the reason someone misses an appointment. Accelerate isn’t just about a better commute, it’s about better health for our region.”

“Our transit system is one of our region’s greatest assets,” said Chellie Cameron, President & CEO, the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. “Accelerate is a vision for what’s possible when we invest in a reliable, modern system that connects people to jobs, businesses to talent, and communities across Greater Philadelphia to opportunity. As we work to make our region a top global destination for business and a leader in inclusive growth, this kind of forward-looking investment is essential.”

“A thriving city and a strong public transit system are intrinsically linked, and the Accelerate plan will help modernize and enhance SEPTA’s stations, vehicles and overall transit service,” said John Fry, Temple University President. “It is not only a vision; it is a path forward that will allow SEPTA to better serve its thousands of daily riders. SEPTA is the medium that brings so many of Temple’s students, faculty, staff and neighbors to and from campus. It directly contributes to the vibrancy of our university community, and we’re thrilled knowing that SEPTA will only grow stronger in the years to come as Accelerate is implemented.”

When combined, Accelerate’s program of improvements means:

• Over two million people within a quarter mile of frequent transit (up from 900,000 today)
• Nearly half of the region’s jobs within a quarter mile of frequent transit (up from 1 in 4 today)
• 100% of all trips go through an accessible station (up from about 60% today)

“From the beginning of our FIFA World Cup bid effort in 2017, we knew SEPTA would be an essential partner, and this summer it delivered for Philadelphia on the global stage,” said Meg Kane, CEO/Host City Executive, Philadelphia Soccer 2026. “More than 155,000 fans rode the B Line home after our six matches, while SEPTA kept residents moving to work, to the FIFA Fan Festival, and everywhere in between. Major events in the City of Philadelphia are never meant to be just a moment in time; they’re meant to be an accelerator for growth. Accelerate is how our region builds on the success of this summer, and it will make our region ready for whatever the world brings us next.”

“Coming off an incredibly strong summer for visitation, when transit was vital to our success, we’re excited about SEPTA’s Accelerate vision plan and what it means for Philadelphia,” said Angela Val, President & CEO, Visit Philadelphia. “A strong public transportation system is essential for moving people throughout our region, whether they’re visiting, heading to work or exploring the city. That includes the thousands of hospitality workers who help make Philadelphia a great place to visit. Growing Philadelphia as a destination means giving people reasons to come and making it easy for them to experience more of our neighborhoods, attractions and local businesses once they’re here.”

“A world-class region requires a world-class transit system,” said Jerry Sweeney, President, CEO & Trustee, Brandywine Realty Trust. “SEPTA is critical to the future of Greater Philadelphia, connecting people to opportunity and driving economic growth. Projects like Schuylkill Yards demonstrate the power of transit to attract investment, talent, and innovation. We applaud SEPTA’s bold vision and continued commitment to strengthening our region’s competitiveness and quality of life.”

“As an essential driver of our local economy, SEPTA moves the entire southeastern region,” said Laura Manion, President & CEO, Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry. “Accelerate details a bold path forward to boost workforce access, promote job creation, and fuel regional growth. For Chester County employers, commuters, and residents, initiatives like Reimagining Regional Rail offer an exciting blueprint for the future. The Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry will continue to advocate strongly for the sustained funding needed to keep SEPTA – and public transit systems statewide – reliable, robust, and viable for years to come.”

Read SEPTA’s full Accelerate vision document.

Metro continues to celebrate our 50th year of service with the release of five commemorative Smart Trip card designs that honor the five decades of Metro. The gold-tinted cards offer customers a new way to take part in Metro's golden anniversary.

Starting Thursday, Sept. 24, a new card design will be released every two weeks. About 20,000 of each card design will be available at select stations. You can track their availability at wmata.com/metro50. At this year’s holiday pop-up shop, customers will be able to purchase a special Metro-branded Smart Trip and trading card collecting book to store their collection.

Multiple cards will be available at some stations, so look for a sign on top of the fare vending machines to see which card design is available in a particular machine.

“Metro's 50th anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on how far transit has come, and the role Metro has played in transforming mobility across the National Capital Region," said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. "These commemorative Smart Trip cards highlight key moments from each decade of our history, and we invite customers to join the celebration by collecting them and sharing in the story of Metro's first 50 years.”

Sept. 24 release: The 1970s

The 1970s card features an image of the installation of an iconic Metro pylon, and the background features architect Harry Weese’s renowned waffle-vaulted ceilings in a rail station. 

Available at these stations: 

• Downtown Largo
• Friendship Heights
• Gallery Place–Chinatown
• King St-Old Town
• Metro Center
• Pentagon City
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• Rosslyn
• Union Station
• Washington Dulles International Airport
• Wheaton
   

Oct. 8 release: The 1980s

The 1980s card features construction crews that helped build the crossing under the Potomac River. 

Available at these stations:  

• Eastern Market
• Foggy Bottom-GWU
• Fort Totten
• Gallery Place–Chinatown
• L'Enfant Plaza
• McPherson Sq
• Metro Center
• Mt Vernon Sq
• New Carrollton
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• Vienna
• Washington Dulles International Airport

Oct. 22 release: The 1990s

The 1990s card highlights a tunnel boring machine that helped carve through rock to build some of the deepest subway stations in the Western Hemisphere. 

Available at these stations:  

• Anacostia
• Branch Av
• Columbia Heights
• Fort Totten
• Gallery Place–Chinatown
• Greenbelt
• L'Enfant Plaza
• Mt Vernon Sq
• Navy Yard-Ballpark
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• Washington Dulles International Airport

Nov. 5 release: The 2000s

The 2000s card features the Metro Rail map in the background, marking the 2001 completion of the originally planned 103-mile, 83-station system, along with a bus highlighting Metro’s connectivity across the region.  

Available at these stations:    

• Ashburn 
• Downtown Largo 
• L'Enfant Plaza 
• Metro Center 
• New Carrollton 
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport 
• Rosslyn 
• Smithsonian 
• Tysons 
• Washington Dulles International Airport 
• Wiehle-Reston East 

Nov. 19 release: The 2010s and beyond 

The 2010s card displays the 7000-series train, which debuted in 2015 and has become Metro’s safest, most reliable train.  

Available at these stations:   

• Branch Av. 
• Fort Totten 
• Franconia-Springfield 
• Glenmont 
• Huntington 
• L'Enfant Plaza 
• Metro Center 
• New Carrollton 
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport 
• Union Station 
• Vienna 
• Washington Dulles International Airport 

Visit wmata.com/metro50th for more historical timelines, photos, and archival materials.

Metro will be hosting an invitation-only hiring event on Saturday, September 26, 2026, for the General Transit Bus Garage Mechanic D (Bus Mechanic) position specifically focused on skilled professionals who meet or exceed the position’s minimum qualifications. Metro is also offering up to a $7,000 signing bonus for these positions.

Metro is expanding its fleet maintenance workforce, ensuring safe and efficient operation of its vehicle fleet. This is a unique opportunity for experienced Automotive Service Technicians to:

• Use advanced diagnostic tools to maintain Metro transit buses and innovative transit systems.
• Receive comprehensive benefits including free transportation on Metro Rail and Metro Bus, competitive pay, retirement plans, health insurance, and career advancement opportunities.
• Be part of a mission-driven organization serving millions of customers across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

To be considered for an invitation to the September hiring event, interested candidates should apply online for the General Transit Bus Garage Mechanic role at wmata.com/careers no later than September 23, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST. While other positions are listed, this hiring event is only for the General Transit Bus Garage Mechanic D role.

Candidates who are interested in applying should complete the following steps:

1. Visit wmata.com/careers and scroll down to click on “search jobs and apply” – choose General Transit Bus Garage Mechanic D (job identification #128).
2. Review the job description to determine whether the position aligns with your professional experience and the stated qualifications (invitations will not be extended to those who DO NOT meet minimum qualifications).
3. Register and create an account.
4. Once the application is submitted, a recruiter will evaluate your qualifications.
5. If qualifications are confirmed, an invitation will be extended detailing the date and time of your interview.

Note: If you are interested in frontline positions, please apply online. These positions will not be included in this event. Frontline (Metro Bus Operator or MTPD recruit) positions will be managed through the normal hiring process.

We appreciate that there are many job seekers interested in careers at Metro. Due to the anticipated high volume of applications, only those who are qualified will be contacted. Metro is continuously recruiting for various positions from Metro Transit Police Officers, Bus Operators, and other essential positions. Please visit wmata.com/careers for more information.

Chief Executive Officers and police chiefs from 15 of the nation's largest transit agencies gathered in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday for the National Transit Safety and Security Summit to share proven strategies for reducing crime, protecting transit workers, and improving the customer experience while advocating for continued federal support on Capitol Hill.

These agencies are achieving measurable safety improvements, sharing best practices nationally, and partnering with Congress to keep transit safe and reliable. Recent results include dramatic reductions in crime such as WMATA in Washington, D.C. having its lowest crime rate in history, a 50% crime reduction on San Francisco Muni since 2019, 31% on LA Metro since 2023, 41% on BART in San Francisco since 2025, and 21% on SEPTA in Philadelphia since 2025.

Public transportation remains one of the safest ways to travel in the United States. According to Federal Transit Administration data, major passenger security events occur at a rate of just 0.15 incidents per one million bus passenger trips and 0.29 incidents per one million rail passenger trips.

Transit leaders also highlighted the critical role public transportation plays in supporting regional economies and moving millions of people safely during major national and international events, including the FIFA World Cup, America's 250th on the National Mall, and championship parades across the country.

Transit safety best practices highlighted by agency leadership include: 

• Modernized fare gates in New York, San Francisco Bay Area, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C. that reduce fare evasion, improve station security, and enhance the customer experience.  
• Regional public safety partnerships in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., that improve coordination among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. 
• Innovative virtual patrol operations, including SEPTA's camera monitoring center staffed by former law enforcement personnel who monitor more than 30,000 cameras across the system and coordinate rapid responses when incidents occur. 
• Increased security presence on buses, trains, and in stations, including targeted enforcement initiatives and visible patrols focused on customer safety and system reliability. Tactic deployed in New York City, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, San Francisco, and Chicago. 
• Implemented the use of drones, including the recently established NJ TRANSIT Police Department Drone Unit, to provide real-time aerial awareness during emergencies, large-scale events, and other public safety operations. 
• Banning policies adopted by agencies in regions including San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Atlanta, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. to remove repeat and egregious offenders from transit systems. 
• Fully enclosed operator barriers and protective shields that reduce assaults on frontline transit workers and enable operators to focus on moving customers safely. 
• Expanded deployment of public safety technology, including networks of thousands of security cameras, real-time camera monitoring, mobile safety apps, and text-to-police programs that help identify incidents and speed response times. 
• Crisis intervention and mental health response teams in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles that connect vulnerable individuals with services while improving safety throughout the transit network. 
• Student safety initiatives, including school resource officers and truancy-reduction programs that help keep young customers safe and connected to educational opportunities. 

Following the summit, transit leaders met with members of Congress to advocate for sustained federal investment and regulatory support. The CEOs emphasized that transit systems are critical national infrastructure, carrying millions of passengers safely each day, connecting workers to jobs, supporting economic growth, and serving as essential transportation networks during major national events.

Continued federal partnership is critical to advancing safety technologies, strengthening security operations, protecting frontline employees, and ensuring transit remains one of the safest and most reliable modes of transportation in the nation.

Quotes from transit CEOs

Randy Clarke, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority General Manager and CEO, co-chair 

"Safety and security are our core values at Metro, and every customer and employee deserves to feel safe on our system. We've reduced crime to historic lows, cut fare evasion, and achieved record customer satisfaction while safely transporting millions of customers to major events like America's 250th celebration and a Grand Prix race. We are asking the Administration and Congress to recommit to the federal partners to secure predictable, reauthorized funding for transit." 

Stephanie Wiggins, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority CEO, co-chair

"People across Los Angeles County are rediscovering the benefits of public transit, and a big part of that is confidence in feeling safe on our system. We’ve reimagined our public safety strategy around visibility, code-of-conduct enforcement, access control, and care-based approaches. As a result, violent crime on our system has fallen 31% from its pandemic-era highs, and riders tell us the system feels safer and the experience has improved significantly. Since January 2023, overall rail satisfaction has increased 11 percentage points, from 76% to 87%, driven largely by improved perceptions of cleanliness inside trains and stations and safety from trains. We expect this trend to continue as we build our own police force dedicated to keeping our riders and employees safe. When people feel safe, supported, and respected, they’re more likely to choose transit—and that’s good for riders, good for our region, and good for everyone who depends on a safe, reliable transportation system. Strong federal partnership is necessary to continue the safety gains agencies are achieving across the country. Predictable federal funding helps protect riders and employees, strengthen security operations, and support the economic vitality of the communities we serve."  

Janno Lieber, Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chair and CEO

“As the nation’s largest transportation system, we know the MTA and New York are always in the spotlight for security, but as evidenced by the City’s falling crime rates and soaring transit ridership and customer satisfaction scores, Governor Hochul’s safety investments and NYPD’s policing strategy are yielding real results.”

Bob Powers, Bay Area Rapid Transit General Manager 

“Putting the safety of riders first has meant boosting our visible BART Police Department presence on trains and in stations as well as installing new fare gates at all 50 of our stations. These state-of-the-art gates are not only deterring fare evasion but other types of unwanted activity on BART. Crimes against riders are down 67% and safety-related train delays are down 47% since the end of 2024.”

Scott A. Sauer, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) General Manager

“With unprecedented investment in Transit Police hiring and new technology, serious crime on SEPTA is at its lowest level in more than a decade. After a historic summer in which SEPTA played a critical role supporting Philadelphia’s six World Cup matches, the MLB All-Star Game and our nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations, I am grateful to join fellow transit leaders in highlighting for U.S. Department of Transportation officials and Members of Congress how public transportation is strengthening safety and security, improving the customer experience and delivering the critical service our regions need.”

Michelle Allison, King County Metro General Manager

"At King County Metro, we’re prioritizing investments in rider and employee safety and security—and we’re seeing meaningful results. Overall, security incidents have declined in recent years. At the same time, more people across King County are choosing to ride our growing transit network, and customer satisfaction with safety and security is now at its highest point in several years. Continuing to make transit safer, more frequent, and more reliable is key to supporting further ridership growth." 

India Birdsong Terry, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager

“GCRTA is helping lead a nationwide effort to modernize rail systems through coordinated advocacy and strong bipartisan support in Congress. Since its creation, the federal Rail Vehicle Replacement Program has awarded more than $1.5 billion nationwide, including a historic $130 million investment in GCRTA’s Rail Car Replacement Program. Together with our recent $20 million award for station accessibility, this federal funding is helping us replace railcars that are more than 40 years old and provide safer, more reliable and accessible service in Greater Cleveland. Sustained and predictable federal investment is essential to continuing this progress across the nation. GCRTA is glad to participate in this essential safety and security summit, to help keep the health and well-being of our communities and collective transit family at the forefront of our efforts, every day without exception.”

Stacy L. Miller, Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works Director and CEO 

"Safety and security are a mindset that runs through every decision we make. Bringing together the CEOs and security chiefs from the country's largest transit systems, alongside our federal partners, provides an invaluable opportunity to discuss shared priorities and lessons learned. We're facing an evolving landscape, and the fastest way forward is sharing what's actually working — the data, the technology, the partnerships — across agencies. Miami-Dade County is proud to be part of this conversation, and is committed to keeping our riders, employees, and residents safe every day.” 

Julie Kirschbaum, San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Director of Transportation

"Muni is a safe, fast and reliable way to get around San Francisco. The safety of our riders and our transit operators is critical to the success of our transit system, and we’ve implemented multiple measures to reinforce safety and security as our top priority. We are deepening our partnership with the San Francisco Police Department, and crime is dropping on Muni as it is throughout the city. With our customer satisfaction rating the highest it’s been in decades, we have made significant progress, but we know there is more work to do, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that Muni is safe for everyone."

Jim Derwinski, Metra Executive Director & CEO 

“Passengers and the public deserve the safest and most secure operations from those entrusted with this responsibility.  At Metra commuter rail, our police force and our employees remain the most valued part of the mission.  Through vigilance, training, and technology we keep our system safe and secure 24/7.”

Kris Kolluri, NJ TRANSIT President & CEO

“Nothing is more important than the safety and security of our customers and employees, and that commitment is reflected in the progress we achieved across the board in 2025 — including a 60% decrease in assaults on rail crews, a 19% decrease in assaults on bus operators, a 33% reduction in fare evasion and a four-percent reduction in crime systemwide. That same focus helped NJ TRANSIT safely move more than 370,000 fans during the FIFA World Cup’s eight matches at NYNJ Stadium, including the Final. We are proud of this progress and of our ability to deliver safe, world-class transportation for New Jersey residents and visitors, but our work to make the system even safer never stops.”

Full list of participants:

Transit Agency                                                 CEO/GM                             Police Chief/Security Lead 

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)                     Robert Powers                  Deputy Chief Gina Galetti 

Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) India Birdsong Terry Chief Deirdre Jones  

King County Metro 

Michelle Allison 

Chief Jose Marenco 

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) 

Stephanie Wiggins 

Chief William Scott 

Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) 

Tony Bridges 

Metra 

Jim Derwinski 

Chief Dan O’Shea 

Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) 

Jonathan Hunt 

Chief Michael Kreher 

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) 

Janno Lieber 

Chief Kemper 

Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation 

Stacy Miller 

New Jersey Transit (NJ TRANSIT) 

Kris Kolluri 

Chief Christopher Trucillo 

Northern Illinois Transit Authority  

Leanne Redden 

San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (Muni) 

Julie Kirschbaum 

Captain Stephen Jonas 

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) 

Scott A. Sauer 

Deputy Chief James Zuggi 

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) 

Randy Clarke 

Chief Stephen Boehm 

PHILADELPHIA (September 14, 2026) – SEPTA has been awarded $80 million in federal All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) funding to make three stations in the Center City Trolley Tunnel fully accessible, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has announced.

“Ensuring that every customer can access transit service that is safe, clean and reliable is a core part of SEPTA’s mission,” said SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. “Station accessibility projects like those this grant will fund are critically important to that effort. I want to thank our Congressional delegation for establishing this vital program and working to support our application.”

ASAP funding will allow SEPTA to construct accessibility improvements at 22nd Street, 33rd Street and 36th Street Stations, which are located in the Center City Trolley Tunnel. Originally built in 1955, these three stations are only accessible via stairs, preventing individuals with disabilities that require the use of a mobility device, families with strollers or anyone who is physically unable to use stairs from traveling to and from these destinations.

The projects will bring the stations into full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Each station will be retrofitted with elevators connecting street level to the underground boarding areas. Raised platforms and other enhancements will also be constructed to accommodate the new fleet of low-floor streetcars that SEPTA is procuring as part of Trolley Modernization.

“Accessibility is critical for SEPTA and our riders,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “Across the SEPTA system, we are currently advancing more than a dozen Metro and Regional Rail station accessibility projects that will greatly improve the customer experience. This major ASAP grant will expand our capacity to deliver these critical improvements, and we are grateful for the FTA’s confidence in our program in awarding this grant.”

This is SEPTA’s second ASAP grant. The Authority was previously awarded $56 million to support ADA station improvement projects at five Metro stations. At Erie Station on the , SEPTA became the first transit agency in the nation to advance to construction on an ASAP-funded project. Last month, SEPTA broke ground on a $44 million ASAP-funded accessibility project at 11th Street Station on the .

“This money will make all the difference for our seniors, for Pennsylvanians with disabilities and for anyone who relies on SEPTA,” said U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA). “I’m proud of the steps SEPTA has already taken to make its system more accessible for all riders, and I’m grateful for the FTA’s support of this important work.”

Created in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) provides discretionary funding for projects that retrofit or upgrade rail stations to ensure that all public areas are accessible to people with disabilities, including those who use a mobility device.

“This $80 million investment is a major win for SEPTA riders and will help make three of Philadelphia’s trolley stations more accessible for all Pennsylvanians who rely on public transportation,” said U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick (R-PA). “I’m committed to reauthorizing the All Stations Accessibility Program along with Senator Duckworth to ensure this important program continues delivering for communities in Pennsylvania and across the country.”

“When we invest in our public transit accessibility, we invest in our community,” said U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans (PA-03). “That’s why I was proud to help establish this vital grant program through President Biden’s historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and fight for SEPTA to receive this critical federal funding. It will increase accessibility at stations throughout Philadelphia- improving the transit experience for all riders.”

“This investment is a win for every Philadelphia resident who relies on safe, accessible, and modern public transportation,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Making the stations at 22nd, 33rd, and 36th Streets fully accessible is more than an infrastructure upgrade. It’s a commitment to equity, and ensuring Philadelphians can visit family and friends, attend school or get to work. I am proud that with our partners at the Federal Transit Administration and SEPTA, we are building a transit system that serves everyone.”

Miriam Sorell, transit employee performance program manager at the SFMTA, shows off her daughter’s transit-themed dress at Muni Heritage Weekend in 2024. 

Step aboard transit history during Muni Heritage Weekend! The event returns to Embarcadero Plaza near the San Francisco Railway Museum Sept. 19-20. It runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.

Muni Heritage Weekend celebrates the transit system that has connected San Francisco for more than a century. You can ride rare historic streetcars and buses at no cost. There also will be activities for all ages. We’re hosting the weekend in collaboration with Market Street Railway.

Ringing in the weekend

We’ll open Muni Heritage Weekend with a ceremonial bell ringing at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19. SFMTA and city leaders will make short remarks before kicking off the festivities.

What's new this year

We’ve added more experiences for you to enjoy. We’ll debut the Muni Heritage Weekend Fun Map. The map will allow you to view routes and track event vehicles in real time.

SFMTA photographer Jeremy Menzies will lead a photo walking tour at noon and 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20. The 30-minute tour will showcase locations featured in the exhibit Moving San Francisco: Views from the SFMTA Photo Archive 1903-Now.

Celebrating Muni’s heritage

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors is expected this week to consider a resolution declaring September as Muni Heritage Month. The resolution was introduced by Supervisor Matt Dorsey on Sept. 1. It recognizes the role Muni plays in connecting San Francisco's past, present and future.

The resolution also coincides with Transit Month, a regional celebration of public transportation. Transit Month highlights the people who operate, maintain and love these systems. You can check out our Transit Month blog to see how we’re celebrating. 

Muni Heritage Weekend offers a unique opportunity to experience San Francisco transit history. Learn more at our Muni Heritage Weekend webpage (SFMTA.com/Heritage). We hope to see you there!

Service improvements are coming to 10 Metro Bus routes, beginning Sunday, Sept. 13. These updates will improve reliability and strengthen connections for customers across the region.

The following routes will receive updates:

• DC: D10, D1X
• Maryland: M42, M44, P31, P63, P72, P73
• Virginia: A58, A76

Highlights include direct service to the new South Lake Marketplace and Giant shopping center in southern Bowie on Route P73 and the resumption of regular routing on the D10 and D1X following a summer detour near the National Mall to accommodate Freedom 250 events.

As a reminder, all customers are required to pay their fare when boarding. Metro Bus fare is $2.25 for regular and limited-stop routes and $4.80 for express routes F19, F28, F81, and F83. Customers may also purchase a 7-day Unlimited Metro Bus + Regional Partners Pass. The regional bus pass offers unlimited regular fare (up to $2.25) rides on Metro Bus, Arlington Transit (ART) and the Fairfax Connector.

Metro encourages customers to visit the related September 13 bus advisory for additional information.

PHILADELPHIA (September 8, 2026) – SEPTA’s Office of Business Advancement & Engagement (OBAE) will host a free workshop during Philadelphia’s upcoming Maximizing Economic Development (MED) Week. SEPTA is encouraging interested small businesses to register for the workshop, which will take place at SEPTA headquarters, 1234 Market Street, 3rd Floor, on October 6, 2026.

The Capital, Capacity & Commerce Workshop is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge, connections and actionable resources needed to compete for contract opportunities. Attendees will be able to network with multiple regional partners and learn about access to funding, technical assistance and procurement services.

The event is scheduled for 8:30 am to 12:30 pm with networking from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm on the Mezzanine. Lunch will be provided for registered participants. Registration is encouraged and limited to 90 participants, with 62 currently registered.

SEPTA is one of five Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Airport Concession DBE (ACDBE), Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and Interstate certifying agencies in the state of Pennsylvania. On September 8, 2026, SEPTA will reopen its DBE and SBE certification portals and begin accepting new and annual certification applications.

Other local stakeholders in attendance will include the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Temple University’s Small Business Development Center, Fulton Bank, Finanta, the City of Philadelphia Department of Commerce, the Urban League of Philadelphia, the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia and PIDC.

The Pennsylvania Convention Center will be participating to share information about their micro-certification grant, through which eligible applicants may apply and be considered for funding to help offset costs associated with pursuing business certifications.

SEPTA is proud to be a leader in advancing inclusive economic growth and is excited to connect small and disadvantaged local businesses to opportunities and resources from some of our region’s economic hubs. SEPTA’s goal is to help translate investment, opportunity and collaboration into tangible economic outcomes for diverse businesses.

Take CTA to the Chicago Jazz and ARC Music festivals, Bike the Drive, baseball games and other events; Planned work will temporarily affect service along the Blue and Yellow lines

From lakefront festivals and fireworks to concerts and sporting events, CTA is the most affordable and convenient way to enjoy a busy week of events across Chicago. Customers can save on travel by purchasing an unlimited-ride 1-Day Pass for $5 or a 3-Day Pass for $15—both offering an economical alternative to the cost and hassle of driving and parking.

Service for Upcoming Events

Chicago Jazz Festival

Grant Park – Thu. 9/3 to Sun. 9/6 at 11 a.m.

Service:

• Rail: All rail lines downtown will get you access to the event.
  • Loop Elevated: Exit at either Washington/Wabash or Adams/Wabash
  • Red and Blue Lines: Exit at Jackson and walk a couple blocks east
• Bus: Multiple bus routes serve the area. For additional route information check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Arc Music Festival

Union Park – Thu. 9/4 to Mon. 9/7 at 2 p.m.

Service:

• Rail: Take the Green and Pink Lines and exit at the Ashland station.

• Bus: The #9 Ashland route will provide the closest service to the event.

For additional route information check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Bike the Drive

Butler Field at Grant Park (DuSable Lake Shore Drive) – Sun. 9/6 at 6:30 a.m.

Service:

• Rail: All rail lines downtown will get you access to the event.
  • Loop Elevated: Exit at either Washington/Wabash or Adams/Wabash
  • Red and Blue Lines: Exit at Jackson and walk a couple blocks east
• Bus: Multiple bus routes serve the area. For additional route information check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Pilsen Mexican Independence Day Parade

Pilsen, 18th Street between Newberry and Wolcott – Sat. 9/5 at 12 p.m.

Service:

• Rail: Take the Pink Line and exit at the 18th station.

• Bus: Several CTA routes will provide the closest service to the event including the following:
  • #8 Halsted
  • #9 Ashland
  • #18 16^th-18^th
  • #60 Blue Island/26th

For additional route information check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

United Center

• Omar Courtz – Sat. 9/5 at 8 p.m.

Service:

• Rail: Take the Green Line and exit at the new Damen station or exit at the Ashland station from either a Green or Pink line train. Take the Blue Line and exit at the Illinois Medical District station (Damen entry/exit).

• Bus: Several CTA routes will provide the closest service to the event including the following:
  • #9 Ashland
  • #19 United Center Express
  • #20 Madison
  • #50 Damen

Some bus routes in the area will be rerouted during the event. Check out our website for more information: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Soldier Field

• Kanye West – Fri. 9/4 at 8 p.m.
• Inter Miami CF vs. Chicago Fire – Wed. 9/9 at 7:30 p.m.

Service:

• Rail: The Red, Orange and Green lines provide the closest access to Soldier Field. Exit at Roosevelt station.
• Bus: Service on the #146 Inner Lake Shore/Michigan Express route.

Wrigley Field

• Brewers vs. Cubs – Thu. 9/3 at 6:15 p.m.
• Big Ten vs. SEC Volleyball – Sun. 9/6 at 6:00 p.m.

Service:

• Red Line: The Addison station is located just a half-block east of Wrigley Field.

• Purple Line: Before weekday night games/events, Loop-bound Purple Line Express trains will stop at the Sheridan station.
  • NEW FOR 2026: Linden-bound Purple Line Express trains will stop at Sheridan for all weekday Cubs day games. Exit the Budweiser Bleacher Gate and walk 2.5-blocks north to Sheridan for trains to Howard and Linden. (More details)
• Yellow Line: Take the Yellow Line and transfer at Howard to the Red Line; continue to Addison station. For all night games at Wrigley Field, Skokie-bound trains will run an hour later on the Yellow Line from Howard – until midnight – to accommodate fans returning home.  (More details)
• #152 Addison:  The #152 route will provide additional service, with more frequent service two hours before and one hour after all games/events.
• Adjacent bus routes: Several CTA bus routes serve the Wrigley Field area, including:
  • #8 Halsted
  • #22 Clark
  • #36 Broadway
  • #80 Irving Park
  • #151 Sheridan

Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island

Service on the #146 Inner Lake Shore/Michigan Express

• Babymetal - Fri. 9/4 at 7:20 p.m.
• OAR - Sun. 9/6 at 6:30 p.m.
• TLC - Tue. 9/8 at 7:30 p.m.

Rate Field

• Twins vs. White Sox – Fri. 9/4 at 6:40 p.m., Sat. 9/5 at 6:10 p.m. and Sun. 9/6 at
  5:20 p.m.
• Pirates vs. White Sox – Tue. 9/8 and Wed. 9/9 at 6:40 p.m.

Service:

• Rail: Rate Field is just one block west of the Sox-35th station.
• Green Line: The 35th-Bronzeville-IIT station is just three blocks east of the ballpark.
• #35 31st/35th: The #35 route (which connects with Orange and Green lines) is the main bus route providing service to the stadium and operates during all game times.
• Adjacent bus routes: Several CTA bus routes serve the ballpark area, including:
  • #1 Bronzeville/Union Station (during Monday – Friday rush periods only)
  • #4 Cottage Grove
  • #24 Wentworth (which runs Monday – Friday to 8:30 p.m.)
  • #29 State
  • #31 31st (which runs Monday – Friday to 7 p.m.)
  • #39 Pershing (which connects with Orange and Green lines)
  • #44 Wallace/Racine

There is a possibility that service can be rerouted. Please check the service alerts on our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/alerts/

Navy Pier Fireworks (Final Show)

Service on the #29 State, #65 Grand, #66 Chicago and #124 Navy Pier routes.

• Sat. 9/5 at 10 p.m.

Planned Work to Temporarily Affect Blue and Yellow Line Service

Blue Line

• Crews will perform work to remove slow zones along the O’Hare branch two nights next week:
  • From 10 p.m. Wednesday, Sep. 9 until 4 a.m. Thursday, Sep. 10, customers must board and exit all trains from the Forest Park-bound side of the platform at the Cumberland and Rosemont stations.
  • From 10 p.m. Thursday, Sep. 10 until 4 a.m. Friday, Sep. 11, customers must board and exit all trains from the O’Hare-bound side of the platform at the Rosemont and Cumberland stations.
• Trains traveling in both directions will share the same track between Harlem (O’Hare branch) and O’Hare, resulting in minor delays. Customers should allow extra travel time.
• This work is funded via the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act

Yellow Line

• Shuttle buses will replace Yellow Line rail service between the Dempster-Skokie and Howard stations from 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, Sept. 13.
• Shuttle buses will serve the Dempster-Skokie, Oakton-Skokie and Howard stations. Customers should allow extra travel time.
• The temporary service change is necessary while crews perform railroad-grade crossing maintenance at Crawford Avenue to provide a safer, smoother commute. This work is funded through the NITA Act.

PHILADELPHIA (September 4, 2026) – Moody’s Ratings has revised its outlook for SEPTA from negative to stable – a direct result of the Authority’s improved Fiscal Year 2026 financial performance.

“This revision occurred without any change to the funding picture in Harrisburg during FY26, and was driven by SEPTA’s responsible and effective financial management,” said SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. “It demonstrates to investors, policymakers and other stakeholders that SEPTA is making measurable progress and is a sound investment.”

Last summer, amid a budget shortfall that forced temporary service cuts, Moody’s assigned SEPTA a negative outlook. It reflected concerns that SEPTA’s deteriorating operating performance could eventually put pressure on bonds secured by dedicated state and federal funding sources.

Moody’s has now revised the outlook to stable, citing better-than-expected financial performance in FY26, driven by management’s disciplined approach to controlling expenses, expanding revenue and reducing the Authority’s structural deficit.

“This action represents a meaningful validation of our financial strategy from the global authority on credit and risk management,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “We will continue to find innovative ways to improve efficiency and manage our resources responsibly, as we work to transform SEPTA from back-to-basics to best-in-class.”

In June, SEPTA’s Board approved a total budget of $2.7 billion for Fiscal Year 2027 – a $1.84 billion Operating Budget and $920.7 million Capital Budget. The Operating Budget reflects the second and final year of the $394 million capital funds transfer approved by PennDOT to support operations.

Thanks to ongoing austerity measures, SEPTA has realized close to $30 million in annual savings, in addition to increased income from advertising, parking and investments. These efforts have reduced SEPTA’s structural budget deficit from $213 million to $192 million.

However, the Moody’s report indicates that over the long-term, SEPTA’s budget gap will be difficult to resolve without further financial support from the Commonwealth or significant adjustments to operations.

To read the Moody’s report, visit the Moody’s Ratings website.

For more information about SEPTA, visit septa.org, follow @SEPTA, or download the official SEPTA app.

Major construction on the Red Line between North Bethesda and Friendship Heights will conclude this weekend, wrapping up nine weeks of intensive work that began on July 6. Full Red Line service will resume on Monday, Sept. 7, restoring rail service to Grosvenor-Strathmore, Medical Center, and Bethesda stations. Metro completed this phase of work on time and on budget.

"We appreciate our customers and community partners for their patience throughout this project," said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. "This work delivers immediate improvements for customers today at Grosvenor-Strathmore while laying the foundation for a better-connected transit network in the future." 

The summer construction project allowed Metro to complete critical infrastructure improvements while advancing long-term investments that will improve customer experience for decades to come. 

At Bethesda, crews built a new mezzanine structure on the platform in preparation for the Maryland Transit Administration's Purple Line, which is slated to begin service in late 2027. At Grosvenor-Strathmore, customers will find a completely rehabilitated station platform and amenities. Metro also completed aerial structure work along the closed stretch of track.

What this work means for customers:

Improved regional connections: Significant progress was made on Bethesda station's second mezzanine, creating the future connection point between Metro and the Purple Line and creating another customer entry point in the station. The MTA’s 16-mile Purple Line light rail will connect 21 stations across Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. Customers will be able to transfer to and from Metro at Bethesda, Silver Spring, College Park, and New Carrollton.

The 6,000-square-foot mezzanine includes two new escalators, two new elevators, a new station manager kiosk, and faregates. About 60 tons of steel and 220 cubic yards of concrete were used to build the structure.

No future disruptions: The majority of work requiring extended access to the track area has now been completed. Construction on the Bethesda mezzanine, including the bridge to the elevator banks, will continue behind protective barriers over the next 18 months without requiring additional station closures.

A modern Grosvenor-Strathmore platform: Customers will notice upgraded lighting, new passenger information displays, replaced platform tiles, upgraded station shelters and benches, improved drainage, and rehabilitated platform edges that enhance both safety and the station experience. Crews poured 280 cubic yards of concrete, laid 16,000 square feet of tile, installed 108 new globe lights and 288 new edge lights, six wind shelters, and 26 new digital information screens.

Updated Grosvenor-Strathmore platform with new non-slip tiles, a refurbished granite edge, and new passenger information displays.

New passenger information displays at Grosvenor-Strathmore

In addition to customer-facing improvements, crews completed extensive structural, electrical, and station rehabilitation work throughout the construction zone, taking advantage of the extended shutdown to accomplish work that would have been difficult to complete during normal rail operations.

Metro chose to close the station during the summer after the Fourth of July when ridership tends to be at its lowest. The project was completed in just two months instead of two years of weekend and overnight closures. Customers can learn more about future planned projects at wmata.com/construction.

Metro moved more than 1.2 million customers with free shuttle bus service during construction. The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration and the Montgomery County Department of Transportation also created temporary bus lanes during the project to speed up shuttles. MDOT will remove those lanes in the coming days after project completion.

Metro will also close the temporary Park and Ride spaces at Metro’s Western Division Bus Garage covered parking lot at the former Lord & Taylor building.

Metro would like to thank Maggiano's and Bethesda Bagels for donating cookies and bagels that were distributed to customers on the final days of the stations closures as a reflection of our appreciation for customers’ patience during the construction. 

PHILADELPHIA – Temple University and SEPTA have partnered to provide Temple students with free SEPTA access between Cecil B. Moore South Station and NRG Station for all Temple football home games this season.

The partnership is designed to provide Temple students with a convenient and affordable way to travel from campus to Lincoln Financial Field and return to campus following each game.

“We are always looking for ways to make it easier for our students to be part of the Temple Athletics experience,” said Arthur Johnson, Vice President and Debbie & Stanley Lefkowitz ’65 Director of Athletics. “This partnership with SEPTA and our colleagues in Student Affairs removes a barrier for our students and gives them another opportunity to come together, support our football program and experience our games at Lincoln Financial Field.”

Temple students will be able to ride the free of charge on game days. This includes travel from Cecil B. Moore Station to NRG for two hours prior to kickoff and return travel from NRG Station for two hours following the conclusion of the game.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between Temple University and SEPTA to enhance the student experience and make it easier for students to attend and support Temple football throughout the season. Fares are covered by Temple University.

“Some of the most memorable parts of the Temple experience happen when our students come together, build traditions and feel connected to something bigger than themselves,” said Jodi Bailey Accavallo, Vice President for Student Affairs. “Temple football gives our students another place to find that sense of community and Owl pride, and we want as many students as possible to be able to participate. This partnership removes the cost and transportation barriers that can make attending a game more difficult and creates an easy connection from Main Campus to Lincoln Financial Field. We are grateful to SEPTA and Temple Athletics for working with us to make game day more accessible, more connected and more distinctly Temple for our students.”

Temple students are encouraged to take advantage of the free SEPTA access and join their fellow Owls at Lincoln Financial Field throughout the football season.

“SEPTA is excited to have Temple University fans on board this season,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “The offers convenient travel to-and-from campus and Lincoln Financial Field, and thanks to this partnership, the trip will be easier than ever. SEPTA is grateful for this partnership with Temple University, and we’ll all be rooting for the Owls!”

Temple head football coach KC Keeler and the Owls open the season at Lincoln Financial Field on Saturday, Sept. 5 against Rhode Island. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 pm. For complete Temple football information, including the 2026 schedule and tickets, visit OwlsSports.com.

To commemorate Rail Safety Month this September, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is reminding everyone “Never Train Surf. Safety Begins with You” and encouraging the public to practice safe behavior around Metro trains and tracks.

“Everyone deserves to get where they’re going safely, and Rail Safety Month is an opportunity to remind Angelenos that a few simple choices can save lives,” said Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “Metro is working to build a culture of safety that protects riders, pedestrians, drivers, and everyone who shares our transportation system.”

Metro continues to see dangerous incidents involving people riding on the outside of trains, between rail cars, behind trains or standing on couplers — a practice commonly known as train surfing. To help discourage this behavior, Metro is releasing a new Safetyville animated video highlighting the serious risks and encouraging riders to make safe choices.

Metro will promote the new Safetyville video throughout the month on its social media channels, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. The popular animated series uses fictional characters to illustrate the consequences of unsafe behavior around trains and reinforces simple actions that can help prevent injuries and save lives.

“We all have a role to play in creating a safer transit experience,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “Public awareness is a big part of safety, and with our new ‘Never Train Surf’ video, we’re educating riders about the serious dangers of unsafe behavior around trains and reinforcing the simple actions that can help keep everyone safe.”

Throughout Rail Safety Month, rail safety messages will appear in English and Spanish at select Metro rail stations and bus stops as well as on wrapped light rail trains operating along the A, E and K Lines. Metro will also participate in community events throughout Los Angeles County to share rail safety information and encourage the public to follow these important safety tips:

• Always stand behind the yellow line.
• Always look both ways when crossing train tracks.
• Never walk on train tracks.
• Never go around lowered gates.
• Don’t jump from the platform.
• Never run to catch the train.
• Pull down your hoodie and remove your headphones near tracks and trains.
• Don’t ride bikes, scooters, or skateboards on the platform.
• Motorists should always stop behind the limit line and obey all signals.
• Never make illegal left turns in front of oncoming trains.

Metro’s Rail Safety Education Program takes a proactive approach to rail safety by providing ongoing, year-round education and awareness through community workshops, school presentations and travel orientations. Serving neighborhoods along Metro’s A, E, and K Lines, these efforts provide communities with the knowledge and tools to make safe choices around the rail system, increase awareness of rail safety, prevent unsafe behavior, and reduce rail-related incidents and injuries.

To learn more, visit metro.net/railsafety.

Georgetown University’s Capitol Campus and The Catholic University of America are joining a growing network of colleges and universities in the region that partner with Metro to provide eligible students with affordable, convenient transportation throughout the academic year.

Starting this fall, eligible students at Georgetown University's Capitol Campus and at Catholic University will have access to Metro's U-Pass program, which offers unlimited rides on Metro Rail and Metro Bus for a fixed price. The program provides an affordable transportation option, helping eligible students connect to classes, employment opportunities, internships, and recreational destinations throughout the region.

"Expanding the U-Pass program is another important step in making public transportation more accessible for students across our region," said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. "Reliable, affordable transportation connects students to opportunities that support their success. We're proud to partner with these universities to make it easier for students to choose Metro and explore everything the region has to offer."

Earlier this year, Metro’s Board of Directors approved a major expansion of U-Pass to reach more students across the region as part of the Strategic Transformation Plan. This introduced new pricing and participation models that made it easier for colleges and universities to join, increasing the number of students who have access to affordable and reliable transit daily.

"Bringing Georgetown University and The Catholic University of America into the U-Pass program marks a major milestone and highlights the power of Metro's regional partnerships," said WMATA Board Chair Joe McAndrew. "By expanding access to affordable, reliable transit for students, we are creating stronger connections to education, employment, and opportunity while supporting ridership growth and advancing a more integrated transportation network across our region."

The partnership between Georgetown and Catholic Universities and Metro aligns with Metro's goal of enhancing the transportation experience for customers across the region, a key focus of DMVMoves.

“Washington, D.C., is an integral part of the Catholic University experience, giving our students extraordinary opportunities to learn, serve, work, and engage with the nation's capital,” said Peter Kilpatrick, president of The Catholic University of America. “By joining Metro’s U-Pass program, we are making those opportunities more accessible and affordable and investing directly in our students’ success."

“As Georgetown’s Capitol Campus continues to grow, access to safe and sustainable transportation for our students between campuses and throughout the District is a university priority. Combined with the expansion of the Hoya Transit program, U-Pass will provide students with greater flexibility and more seamless access to opportunities,” said Dave Green, Georgetown’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Students at Georgetown and Catholic eligible for the U-Pass program will receive their cards after distribution by the universities before the semester begins. They also can add their U-Pass to their Apple Wallet and turn on Express Transit mode for a seamless tap and go experience. 

To learn more about the U-Pass program, visit wmata.com/upass.

PHILADELPHIA (August 27, 2026) – SEPTA today gathered with elected officials and other stakeholders to break ground on a project at 11th St Station that will make the station fully accessible. More than 9,400 riders pass through 11th St Station each weekday.

“Ensuring that SEPTA service is accessible to all riders is a core part of our mission, and today’s groundbreaking marks another important milestone in that commitment,” said SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. “Making our system more accessible is a shared responsibility, and we are grateful for the federal investment through the FTA’s All Stations Accessibility Program, as well as the continued partnership and support of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia.”

A key element of the $44 million project is providing elevator access from the street level to the eastbound and westbound platforms. The two new elevators will make 11th St Station fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“We are excited to begin this work and deliver a modern, fully accessible station for our customers,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “11th St Station is an important gateway to East Market, and this project is an investment not only in our transit system but in the infrastructure that supports this critical corridor.”

“These improvements will ensure 11th St Station is fully accessible and enhance the experience for every rider,” said Congressman Brendan F. Boyle. “Projects like this are exactly why I fought so hard to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I’m proud to have helped secure millions in federal funding to deliver these upgrades.”

By the time construction at 11th St Station is completed, 27 of 28 stations will be fully accessible, and over the next 12 years, SEPTA is investing more than $700 million on making Metro and Regional Rail stations accessible.

“Understanding the importance of public transit, I am pleased to support SEPTA’s work to achieve accessibility for all users of the system and this project is a good step in that direction,” said Philadelphia City Councilmember Mark Squilla.

“ADA improvements are a lifeline for those with wheelchairs or mobility aids, and they also make the system more usable and dignified for riders with children in strollers, folks with shopping carts, bicyclists and everyone else,” said Ariella Maron, Executive Director of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC). “We applaud SEPTA for finding a way to speed up this project, which in turn means delivering benefits to the community faster and making efficient use of our limited resources.”

In addition to the new elevators, other planned improvements to the station include:

• New lighting
• Communications system upgrades
• New employee bathroom
• New cashier booth
• New floor and wall tiles
• New wayfinding signage
• Structural repairs and waterproofing improvements

SEPTA’s FY27 Budget includes funding to bring full-height fare gates to an additional 13 stations, including 11th St. At the 10 stations where the new gates are installed, fare evasion has been cut roughly in half.

In order to perform the renovations, 11th St Station will be closed to the public from September 5, 2026 through August 30, 2027. trains will bypass the station during this time. The concourse will be closed from 13th St to 11th St for the duration of the project.

The typical duration for similar projects is approximately 35 months. Bypassing the station for 12 continuous months is expected to reduce the project duration by at least 10 months and save up to $3 million.

Customers who normally board or exit at 11th St can use 13th St Station, which is ADA accessible. When 11th St Station reopens, the remaining construction will cause minimal disruption to riders.

Metro is developing a state-of-the-art training center that will support Metro’s Strategic Transformation Plan priority, Talented Teams. The proposal consolidates training functions into a single, purpose-built facility designed to replicate real-world transit environments and support both hands-on and classroom instruction.

The public is invited to attend a public hearing about the project on Sept. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Metro’s New Carrollton Office Building. A feedback survey will be available until 9 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 28.

The project, located at 3636 Pennsy Dr. in Landover, Maryland, proposes demolition of the existing 350,000 square-foot warehouse facility owned by Metro. A new two-story, 380,000 square-foot structure will be built in its place. The project will include:

• A replica Metro Rail station and tunnel complete with railcars.
• Two interior mock bus bays to accommodate diesel, electric, hybrid and gas bus technologies
• An auditorium with 1,000 seats for group training, events and assemblies
• Administrative offices
• Flexible training classrooms and technical laboratory spaces
• Modern learning spaces designed for hands-on practicum, classroom, and virtual learning environments
• A dedicated Metro Transit Police Department Training Academy with secure and separate access
• Site work to enhance traffic circulation, utility corridors, stormwater systems and building placement to meet engineering best practices and Prince George’s County site development requirements

Read more about the proposed project and see the site plans here.

Public comment period now open

The public can take a survey, provide written comments, or upload documents online or mail testimony to:

Office of Board Affairs, SECT 2E 
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority 
P.O. Box 44390 
Washington, DC 20026-4390

All comments must be submitted by 9 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 28.

Attend the Public Hearing

Join us in person or virtually on Thursday, Sept. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for the Open House to engage with Metro staff. 

In-person location 

WMATA New Carrollton Office Building

4100 Garden City Drive

1st Floor Conference Rooms

Hyattsville, MD 20785

Watch or listen live 

Watch the public hearing live on this page, at YouTube.com/MetroForward, or listen by phone by calling (206) 899-2028 and entering the Meeting Code: 943 834 972#.

Public feedback will be provided to Metro’s Board of Directors in Fall 2026 as part of the final decision-making process. 

Participate in the public hearing  

• To provide oral testimony in-person during the hearing, participants may pre-register by emailing [email protected] or calling (202) 962-2511 by 12 p.m. on the day of the hearing. Please submit only one speaker’s name per request. Individuals may also sign up at the hearing to provide testimony. 

• To provide oral testimony via video, participants must preregister by emailing [email protected] by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16. Information about how to participate via video will be provided after preregistration is confirmed.  

• To provide oral testimony via phone during the hearing, participants should call (202) 899-2028 and enter the Meeting Code 943 834 972# while the hearing is taking place. Preregistration to provide comments via phone is not available.  

Next Steps

Following the public comment period, all public comments will be provided to Metro's Board of Directors for final review and inclusion into Metro's Mass Transit Plan.

If the project moves forward, the Prince George’s County Planning Department will be responsible for evaluating the scope and impact on public facilities, including the evaluation of the project's traffic impacts, and stormwater design.

PHILADELPHIA (August 26, 2026) – SEPTA will fully bus all five trolley lines over four weekends through the end of September to accommodate power substation repairs.

The substation powers the Trolley Tunnel and the trolley diversion route. The repairs are necessary due to recent water intrusion. SEPTA’s goal is to avoid unplanned service disruptions by addressing the work during these planned weekend outages.

Buses will service the same stops as the trolley routes. Riders can transfer to the at 40th and Market Streets for eastbound service to Center City, and from the to buses at 40th and Market for westbound service.

The tunnel will close at 2 am on Saturdays, with a gradual transition to busing overnight. All five lines will be fully bused from 5 am Saturday until 5 am Monday on the following weekends:

• Saturday, August 29 to Monday, August 31
• Saturday, September 12 to Monday, September 14
• Saturday, September 19 to Monday, September 21
• Saturday, September 26 to Monday, September 28

On Monday mornings, some and trips continue to operate as a bus to 40th St Portal for select trips through the afternoon hours.

Riders are encouraged to allow for extra travel time.

Transit improvements are coming to the RFK Stadium complex and surrounding area. More than 125 community members attended an open house hosted by Metro, in partnership with D.C. Councilmembers Wendell Felder (Ward 7) and Charles Allen (Ward 6), DDOT, and the RFK Stadium Project Management Office on Tuesday, Aug. 25, at St. Coletta of Greater Washington.

Attendees had the opportunity to visit three information stations to learn about the feasibility study Metro conducted, the “Gold Line” Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route planned for the area, enhancements to the existing Stadium-Armory station and ask questions of Metro staff. A fourth information station was available for community members to provide comments and feedback on the planned transit improvements.

In addition to area residents, representatives of the District's industry groups, small businesses and major employers were also in attendance to learn and share thoughts about these projects, and the economic development opportunities they can bring for the neighborhood and across DC.

The concept for the Gold Line BRT includes center-running, dedicated bus lanes on H St NE and Benning Rd NE. The Gold Line BRT would also build a new transit plaza adjacent to the stadium that would deliver capacity, convenience, and competitive travel time to Union Station, reduce pressure on Stadium-Armory, and improve service for the Kingman Park neighborhood.

Proposed enhancements at the Stadium-Armory station include the installation of additional elevators, escalators, and a new mezzanine. A wider North entrance to the station is also under consideration. Together, these improvements would increase station accessibility and capacity, enabling customers to safely move from the RFK Stadium campus to trains.

Metro will now work to finalize concept designs and begin the design and engineering phase for the improvements to Stadium-Armory and the proposed Gold Line BRT route and transit plaza near the stadium complex.

The goal is to complete the Stadium-Armory upgrades and begin Gold Line BRT operations by August 2030, in time for the 2030 NFL season, when the new stadium is set to open.

RFK Campus Transit Improvements: Project Page

Please see this page on the initiative and study that will inform future planning and decision-making related to transit access, mobility, and connectivity.

Learn more at: wmata.com/rfk.

The Agency is expanding Frequent Network bus routes across Chicago providing 10-minutes-or-better service daily

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) today announced more frequent and expanded service on 10 bus routes starting Sunday, August 23, including the addition of three bus routes to the heralded Frequent Network.  

Frequent Network bus routes provide service every 10 minutes or better, between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays, and 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekends. The network provides strong connections to regional transit partners Pace and Metra: all routes connect directly to Pace and Metra service, allowing for more convenient, reliable transfers between systems. A fourth route will be added to the Frequent Network in December, bringing the total to 24 routes by the end of the year.  

“Last year, we introduced the Frequent Network because we know what our riders want from public transit: service that is frequent, reliable and there when they need it,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “The success of the Frequent Network—with more than 85,000 additional rides each week—is the result of our riders’ response to our investment in their travel experience. Thanks to the additional funding provided through the NITA Act, we can build on that momentum, expand our Frequent Network and continue to deliver the kind of transit system our riders deserve—seven-days-a-week.”

​Beginning August 23, the three routes joining the Frequent Network will be:

• #35 31st/35^th: 40% more service weekdays, 65% more service weekends/holidays
• #74 Fullerton (includes weekend evening frequency improvements): 20% more service weekdays, 30% more service Saturdays, 50% more service Sundays/holidays
• #85 Central: 30% more service weekdays, 40% more service Saturdays, 50% more service Sundays/holidays

In December, CTA will add the #8 Halsted route, bringing the network to 24 routes.

In addition to expanding the Frequent Network, the CTA will also be extending service hours and/or frequency on the following seven routes:

• #3 King Drive: Earlier Sunday/holiday service
• #44 Wallace/Racine: Earlier Sunday/holiday service
• #70 Division: Earlier weekday service
• #74 Fullerton: More frequent service between 9 PM and midnight on weekends
• #73 Armitage: Later Saturday and Sunday service
• #76 Diversey: Earlier Sunday/holiday service, later Saturday and Sunday/holiday service
• #91 Austin: Earlier Saturday and Sunday/holiday service

The Frequent Network has saved riders over 55 million minutes of waiting time since it was launched in 2025. By the end of the year, an estimated 75% of the CTA service area will now be within a half mile of a frequent bus route, benefiting roughly 2.4 million riders.

The Frequent Network provides frequent service all day, but riders will see the most service improvements during midday, evening and weekend hours. The Frequent Network builds on CTA’s Bus Vision Framing Report, which analyzed CTA bus service and identified much needed service improvements on weekends, evenings and midday​ to ensure CTA’s buses better serve riders, especially low-income and minority riders.

These service upgrades are possible due to the passage of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act last fall. The law includes approximately $1.5 billion in new funding annually for CTA, Metra, and Pace paired with reforms to improve efficiency, coordination, and accountability. In May the RTA Board approved an amendment to the region’s transit operating budget that made these upgrades and many other service improvements possible this year. 

July 2026 Saw Nearly 26 Million Boardings, 2 Million More than July 2025

Metro ridership in July was 25,847,617, exceeding July 2025 ridership by 2 million boardings, or 8.79%. The biggest gains across the system were on weekends, with a 10.63% increase on Saturdays.

July ridership was up year-over-year across both weekdays and weekends. In addition to the Saturday ridership growth, which averaged 694,263 boardings, Sunday ridership grew 8.77% to 597,114 average boardings. Weekday ridership is also up with 903,446 average boardings, up 7.41% over July 2025.

July was a busy month with activities taking place across LA County. In addition to World Cup matches, fan zones and viewing parties, Fourth of July celebrations helped drive ridership in July, including home games for the Dodgers, LAFC, Sparks and Galaxy; events at LACMA; CicLAvia in Hollywood; Monster Jam at Crypto.com Arena; Hilary Duff at the KIA Forum; and the Vans Warped Tour in Long Beach.  

Rail Ridership Soars

2025 and 2026 saw the openings of the LAX/Metro Transit Center, the A Line Extension to Pomona and D Line Extension, Section 1, which greatly expanded access to key destinations across LA County and continue to drive significant increases in rail ridership. In July, rail ridership grew 16.84% to 6,592,276, marking the eighth consecutive month of rail ridership increases. Growth was strong across both weekdays and weekends but Saturdays stood out with 19.3% growth over July 2025 to 191,365 average ridership.

Other year-over-year rail ridership highlights include:

• A line ridership increased nearly 20% to 2,176,946, and Sundays grew more than 25% to 56,531 average ridership
• B/D lines saw big growth on Saturdays of 33.9% to 59,147 average ridership; overall growth was 18% to 2,034,822; the D line growth was even more impressive with a 52% increase on Saturdays over July 2024 and a 46% increase on weekdays over July 2024 (the D line was closed in July 2025 for construction)
• C line total ridership was 549,846, a 6.7% increase with consistent growth across weekdays and Sundays (despite construction impacts from the adjacent I-105 ExpressLanes that require bus transfers while work is taking place near the tracks)
• E line ridership was 1,577,868, a 16% increase, with Sundays showing the strongest growth at nearly 27% to 44,386 average ridership
• K line ridership was up nearly 11% to 252,794, and the strongest growth at 12% was on weekdays at 8,791 average ridership

Bus Ridership Continues to Grow

Bus ridership was up 6.3% year-over-year, with the biggest increase on weekends: Saturday ridership up 7.7% to 502,898 and Sunday ridership up 6% to 427,383. The J line, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route used by many riders for World Cup activities, was up 7.6% year-over-year. Total bus ridership in July was 19,255,341.

These numbers exclude the 212,865 rides taken on the direct enhanced service routes to Los Angeles Stadium for World Cup fans attending the matches, which were announced previously.

PHILADELPHIA (August 18, 2026) – Beginning August 23 and 24 Phase 1 of SEPTA’s New Bus Network will go into effect, which will include two new routes and six route extensions.

“These changes are focused on enhancing reliability and service frequency and will help riders travel more efficiently throughout our area,” said SEPTA General Manager, Scott A. Sauer. “Along with new maps and signs, riders will be able to navigate the system more easily.”

In preparation, SEPTA has been conducting an extensive education campaign to help ensure rider awareness of the improvements and a seamless implementation of the changes. SEPTA is holding 300 pop up events at 42 locations across the system. Since 2021, the Authority has also conducted 500 community events, 40 virtual meetings and 12 public hearings.

Schedule Change Highlights

New Routes

• Route 72 will provide a new east/west connection between Frankford Transit Center to Cedarbrook
  Plaza via Cheltenham Av.
• Route 76 will provide a new north/south connection between Rising Sun Loop and Columbus.
  Commons via Pier 70. It will operate on G Street, Frankford Avenue, and Columbus Boulevard.

Route Extensions

• Route 45 extends service to the Navy Yard seven days a week.
• Route 79 extends service between South and West Philadelphia to 40th St Station on the L.

Discontinued Routes

• The following routes will be discontinued in New Bus Network Phase 1: 35, 47M, 62, 78, 80, 89 and 106.

Information for Riders

There are a variety of resources available for riders to get the information they need to navigate the new network.

Riders can use the New Bus Network Trip Planner to preview what their journey will look like after Phase 1 is implemented on August 23-34.

Starting on Sunday, all trip planning and interactive schedules on SEPTA.org, the SEPTA App, and thirdparty apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Transit, will transition over to the new network.

Riders will also notice new bus stop signs at all affected stops, featuring:

• “Frequent red” color indicating routes that come every 15 minutes or better.
• Reflective SEPTA Bus Symbol that makes the stop easier to find and improves safety after dark.
• Name of the stop clearly identified to help with navigation.
• More detailed information when a bus has multiple possible destinations, matching the signs on
  the front of the bus.
• Clearer and more standardized typography, symbols and organization, matching maps, schedules
  and digital tools.

These changes represent the first-ever comprehensive redesign of SEPTA’s bus network in its 63-year history.

Complete information on Phase 1 changes and public engagement opportunities is available on the SEPTA New Bus Network Phase 1 webpage.

New student fare policies and free rides on the first day of school, Aug. 24

K-12 students across the Chicago region will start the school year with free rides on public transit and will experience a more coordinated student fare system that provides lower, more consistent fares across the CTA, Metra and Pace throughout the year.

The changes are among the first rider-facing improvements made possible by Northern Illinois Transit Authority’s (NITA’s) increased funding and responsibility for coordinating transit across the region. The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) will formally transition to NITA on Sept. 1.

Student fares on CTA and Pace will now be standardized at 75 cents per ride. The change reduces Pace’s student fare from $1 to 75 cents. CTA and Pace will also expand student fare eligibility beyond school hours and the traditional school year to match Metra’s existing student fare policies. Eligible students will be able to use the 75-cent fare at any time of day, year-round, with free transfers between CTA and Pace services within two hours. Metra will continue to offer reduced fares to K-12 students at all times.

Supported by additional funding provided through the NITA Act, the new policy is an early example of how NITA will use its regional role to make fares and services more consistent across CTA, Metra and Pace.

“As families across the Chicago region prepare for a new school year, students will be able to ride free on the first day of school and, moving forward, ride CTA and Pace for just 75 cents at any time, year-round, with free transfers between the two systems,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Made possible in part by new funding through the NITA Act, these more affordable and coordinated fares will help families save money and make it easier for students to get to class, after-school activities, jobs and more.” 

“We’re proud to deliver one of the first tangible benefits of the transition to NITA: lower, more consistent fares for students across the region, just in time for back to school” said NITA Chief Transition Officer Maulik Vaishnav. “This is the kind of regional coordination riders can expect from NITA as we continue improving fares, service, safety and the overall customer experience.”

NITA, CTA, Metra and Pace are also working together to provide free rides to K-12 students on Aug. 24 to mark the beginning of the new school year. Chicagoland-based Butcher Boy Cooking Oils is sponsoring CTA’s first day of school free rides for the sixth consecutive year.

"The free rides we provide to K-12 students on the first day of school are small investments into big futures, and I want to thank our friends at Butcher Boy Cooking Oils, who have again covered the cost of students' first day rides this year," said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. "In addition, thanks to funding from NITA, students will ride on CTA for 75 cents at any time of day, year-round, whether they are going to school in the morning or to activities, jobs or programs in the afternoon. I am excited that NITA and the regional public transit service boards are working together for the benefit of young people across the Chicago region."

“A free ride to start the school year sets it on a positive course and introduces children and families across Northeast Illinois to the value, reliability, and convenience of our public transit system,” said Metra Executive Director/CEO Jim Derwinski. “NITA’s work to fund and coordinate fare policies across our three transit systems will increase accessibility and create more opportunities for our youngest riders.”

“As students head back to class, Pace is proud to help make the first day of school a little smoother for families across the region,” said Melinda Metzger, Executive Director of Pace Suburban Bus. “Lowering Pace’s student fare from $1 to 75 cents will make a meaningful difference for families while giving students more opportunities to travel independently throughout the region,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “This partnership demonstrates what we can accomplish when the region works together around the needs of riders.”

Students and families can find eligibility requirements and instructions for accessing student fares from CTA at https://www.transitchicago.com/fares/, Metra at https://www.metra.com/fares, and Pace at https://www.pacebus.com/fares.

About the RTA

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is the unit of local government created to oversee finances, to secure funding and to conduct transit planning for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra and Pace. The RTA manages these three Service Boards’ five-year capital programs. Also, to help riders with disabilities and older adults across Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties, the agency issues Reduced Fare and Ride Free permits, assesses eligibility for ADA Paratransit service and oversees specialized travel training. The Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act became effective on June 1, 2026. The RTA will formally transition to NITA on September 1, 2026. For more, visit www.RTAChicago.org.

UPDATE: The Metro U Pop-Up Shop will now open on Tuesday, Aug. 18 due to air conditioning issues.

The Metro U Pop-Up Shop is officially back in session next week, and it's stocked with this semester's collection. You'll find limited-edition t-shirts, hoodies, hats, totes, mugs, notebooks, and more — everything you need to be the freshest in first period. 

Study up on the new collection, then stop by to earn an A+ on your outfit. Whether you're shopping for a lifelong rail fan, a dedicated bus buff, or the student who has everything — there's something here for the whole class. Don't procrastinate, merch is only available for a limited time. 

If the store gets full, Metro may use a one-in-one-out metering system to provide a better shopping experience.

Metro U Pop-Up Shop 

Dates: Open daily from Tuesday, August 18 to Friday, September 4. 

Hours: 

• Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays: 10 am to 6 pm
• Wednesdays: 8 am to 4 pm
• Saturdays and Sundays: 10 am to 5 pm

Address: Metro HQ Lobby Level, 300 7th St. SW, Washington, D.C. 20024

Getting there:

• Take the Yellow, Green, Orange, Silver, or Blue lines to L’Enfant Plaza
• Use Exit B
• Cross D St SW to reach the entrance of the pop-up shop

Shop our other items online at dcmetrostore.com.

CTA’s trains and buses are the best ways to get to the Chicago Air and Water Show and games for Crosstown Classic and Chicago Bears; planned Green Linework to temporarily impact service

From high-flying action along the lakefront to a classic baseball rivalry, CTA is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the Chicago area. Customers can save money by purchasing an unlimited rides pass, either the 1-Day ($5) – far more economical and convenient than the price of gas and parking - or the 3-Day ($15) pass – a real budget-saving move.

Service for Upcoming Events

The 2026 Chicago Air and Water Show

North Avenue Beach – Sat. 8/15 and Sun. 8/16 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Service:         

• Rail: The Red and Brown Lines provide the closest access to the event area. Customers can exit North/Clybourn station on the Red Line and the Sedgwick station on the Brown Line.
• Bus: The #22 Clark, #36 Broadway, #72 North Avenue and #151 Sheridan routes provide service to the event. During the event, these routes will be rerouted and will have adjusted boarding locations. The #72 North Avenue will board westbound at the North Avenue terminal at Clark, while customers can board the #22 Clark, #36 Broadway and #151 Sheridan on LaSalle/North, northbound and southbound.

For additional route information check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Service for Wrigley Field

• Cardinals  vs. Chicago Cubs – Fri. 8/14 and Sat. 8/15 at 1:20 p.m. and Sun. 8/16 at 2:10 p.m.
• (Crosstown Classic) White Sox vs. Chicago Cubs – Mon. 8/17, Tue. 8/18 at 7:05 p.m. and Wed. 8/19 at 1:20 p.m.

Service:

• Red Line: The Addison station is located just half a block east of Wrigley Field.
• Purple Line: Before weeknight events only, Loop-bound Purple Line Express trains will stop at the Sheridan station.
• Yellow Line: Take the Yellow Line and transfer at Howard to the Red Line; continue to Addison station. To accommodate fans returning home, the Yellow Line will run for an hour later from Howard – until midnight – for all night games at Wrigley Field.

• #152 Addison:  The #152 route will provide additional service on Cubs game days, with more frequent service two hours before and one hour after all games.
• Adjacent bus routes: Several CTA bus routes serve the Wrigley Field area, including:

• #8 Halsted
• #22 Clark
• #36 Broadway
• #80 Irving Park
• #151 Sheridan

There is a possibility that service can be rerouted. For additional route information check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Taylor Street Little Italy Festival

Little Italy, Taylor Street between Ashland to Racine – Thu. 8/13 and Fri. 8/14 at 5 p.m., Sat. 8/15 and Sun. 8/16 at 12 p.m.

Service:

• Rail: Take the Blue Line and exit at the Racine station. Take the Pink Line and exit at the Polk station.
• Bus: Several CTA routes will provide the closest service to the festival including the following:
  • #7 Harrison
  • #9 Ashland
  • #12 Roosevelt
  • #60 Blue Island/26^th
  • #157 Streeterville/Taylor - The #157 route will be rerouted in the area but still provides service nearby. (See more)

For additional route information check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Soldier Field

• Browns vs. Chicago Bears (Preseason Football) – Sat. 8/15 at 12:00 p.m.
• Timbers vs. Chicago Fire – Sun. 8/16 at 5:30 p.m.

Service:

• Rail: The Red, Orange and Green lines provide the closest access to Soldier Field. Exit at Roosevelt station.
• Bus: Service on the #146 Inner Lake Shore/Michigan Express route.

For additional route information riders should check our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/schedules/

Rate Field:

• Reds vs. White Sox – Thu. 8/13 at 1:10 p.m.

Service:

• Red Line: Rate Field is just one block west of the Sox-35th station.
• Green Line: The 35th-Bronzeville-IIT station is just three blocks east of the ballpark.
• #35 31st/35th: The #35 route (which connects with Orange and Green lines) is the main bus route providing service to the stadium and operates during all game times.

• Adjacent bus routes: Several CTA bus routes serve the ballpark area, including:
  • #1 Bronzeville/Union Station (during Monday – Friday rush periods only)
  • #4 Cottage Grove
  • #24 Wentworth (which runs Monday – Friday to 8:30 p.m.)
  • #29 State
  • #31 31st (which runs Monday – Friday to 7 p.m.)
  • #39 Pershing (which connects with Orange and Green lines)
  • #44 Wallace/Racine

There is a possibility that service can be rerouted. Please check the service alerts on our website: https://www.transitchicago.com/alerts/

Beach Service

The last day for weekday beach service is Fri. 8/21.

Weekend beach service will run through Labor Day weekend operating directly to Chicago’s beaches on the following bus routes:

• #35 31st/35th
• #63 63rd
• #72 North
• #78 Montrose

Buses will operate to/from beaches between approximately 9 a.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Navy Pier Fireworks

Service on the #29 State, #65 Grand, #66 Chicago and #124 Navy Pier routes.

• Sat. 8/ 15 at 10 p.m.
• Wed. 8/19 at 9 p.m.

Weekend Work to Temporarily Impact Green Line Service

• Between 4:30 a.m. Sat. 8/15 through 4 a.m. Monday, 8/17, shuttle buses will replace Green Line service between Garfield and Cottage Grove stations. (More details)
  • Green Line trains will operate between Harlem/Lake and Ashland/63rd only.
  • Customers traveling to/from King Drive and Cottage Grove should transfer between Green Line trains and shuttle buses at Garfield station.
  • Customers should allow extra travel time.
• These service changes are due to track maintenance to ensure that trains continue to operate safely along the Green Line.

New pilots add to agency’s holistic, multi-layered approach to system security; and leverages funding made available from the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act

The Chicago Transit Board today approved the awarding of four professional services agreements with local organizations supporting the agency’s new Safe Ride Specialist program pilot. The program will add dedicated non-law enforcement rider engagement resources to promote a safe transit experience for every rider.

“Our new Safe Ride Specialists program builds on the foundation of CTA's public safety efforts, bringing trained, compassionate outreach professionals into the system to meet riders where they are," said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. "This program will help every rider feel welcome, connect vulnerable riders to the support they need, and complement our recent investments to increase law enforcement resources."

The Safe Ride Specialist program pilot was developed collaboratively in partnership with riders and more than 30 mental health and social service experts, community organizations, and labor partners at CTA’s Transit Community Safety workshop held in August 2025.

Safe Ride Specialists will serve two core roles:

• Crisis Intervention Specialists: Support riders experiencing mental health crises and substance abuse disorders by connecting them to treatment, housing, and social services.
• Community Violence Intervention Specialists: Engage youth and young adults to build positive relationships, de-escalate potential conflicts, and redirect energy into constructive behaviors.

Safe Ride Specialists will maintain a highly visible presence on CTA’s system by proactively riding the system in teams across targeted stations, trains, and buses to address anti-social behaviors and provide a reassuring presence for riders. Safe Ride Specialists will wear distinct, branded uniforms and are trained in trauma-informed care, crisis de-escalation, conflict resolution, and anti-bias principles. Every Safe Ride Specialist team will carry outreach materials, care & hygiene kits, and Narcan. Additionally, each organization brings significant outreach experience and a network of wraparound services that riders can directly access, including shelter beds, respite locations, mental healthcare, and much more.

Safe Ride Specialists will be deployed on the system starting in September. Partner agencies include Healthcare Alternative Systems (HAS), Street Samaritans, Housing Forward, and Metropolitan Peace Initiatives – a division of Metropolitan Family Services. Partners will focus on the Blue, Red and Green Lines, with particular staging locations and access points determined through rider and employee feedback, as well as access to areas of respite for rider engagement and the availability of wraparound resources.

While the pilot zones are targeted to areas of highest need as identified by riders, front-line personnel and security resources, riders and personnel across the entire system will experience the benefits of these pilots.

"HAS is excited to partner with the CTA to provide person-centered, trauma-informed services in a space that all Chicagoans rely on every day. Crisis doesn't always happen in a clinic; it happens in public and on transit systems. We are eager for our talented, compassionate staff to continue meeting people where they're at and provide them with the support they need,” said Millie Adan, Chief Executive Officer of HAS.

“Street Samaritans is proud to partner with the CTA on this critical work. Our approach has always been rooted in the people we serve and extending that work to the Blue Line reflects exactly where it's needed most. This partnership is a natural extension of our commitment to Chicago, one that now reaches into the transit system where so many of our neighbors spend their days,” said Oscar Martinez, Executive Director of Street Samaritans.

“Housing Forward appreciates the opportunity to partner with the CTA on the Safe Ride pilot program and bring more than 15 years of Street Outreach experience to the Green Line. CTA trains are already an important part of daily life for many people experiencing homelessness, making them a natural place to offer support. This partnership creates an important opportunity to connect people not only with services, but with a specific pathway to stability,” said Lynda Schueler, CEO of Housing Forward.

“We are proud to partner with the Chicago Transit Authority on this innovative pilot program that brings Community Violence Intervention (CVI) and crisis prevention strategies into one of the city’s most important public spaces,” said Vaughn Bryant, Vice President and Executive Director of Metropolitan Peace Initiatives (MPI). “We are also equally excited to create new employment pathways for Chicagoans who want to use their lived experiences and commitment to peace to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Public safety and violence prevention remain a top priority for MPI, and we believe the presence of our trained Crisis Prevention and Response Unit (CPRU) can help foster a safer, more welcoming transit environment for all riders. This pilot program is an opportunity to demonstrate the transformative impact of CVI and create a model that can one day be expanded across the city’s public transit system.”

The Safe Ride Specialists will add to CTA’s existing resources for unhoused riders on the 24-hour Red and Blue lines through a partnership with Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS). On Wednesday the Chicago Transit Board also approved two new expanded agreements with DFSS for additional outreach for people experiencing homelessness, including introducing new dedicated shelter beds to better support those seeking refuge on the transit system.

Additionally, the program is another layer of CTA’s comprehensive safety approach that was strengthened with the passage of the NITA Act last fall. Earlier this year CTA partnered with the Chicago Police Department (CPD) and Cook County Sherriff’s Office to deploy additional officers across the system. The new law also establishes a regional transit ambassador program led by NITA, in partnership with CTA, Metra, and Pace, to assist riders and connect with law enforcement, social services, and community resources, as needed.

The total cost for the pilots is $9.6 million and will be supported by previously allocated funds under the CTA budget with additional funding authorized by the RTA Board in May after the passage of the NITA Act. During the one-year pilot, CTA will measure program effectiveness through various key performance indicators, such as incidents de-escalated without the use of law enforcement; reduction in service delays; improved safety for front line personnel and riders; connection to wraparound resources, and vulnerable rider outcomes beyond the initial engagement. These indicators will be evaluated to determine the future of the program and help inform the regional safety initiatives being led by NITA. 

The new portable virtual reality rail simulator will allow operators in training to gain more hands-on experience

The Chicago Transit Board today authorized a one-year pilot program agreement for a portable rail simulator training solution through the CTA Innovation Studio. The awarding of this agreement is CTA’s latest step in adopting cutting-edge technologies to provide riders with safer, smoother, and more reliable transit riding experience every day.

"This simulator gives our rail operators hands-on practice with operational scenarios before they ever face them in the real world,” said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. “It gives our operators realistic, hands-on experience in weather, construction and emergency scenarios so they're ready no matter what situations they may face."

In Summer 2025, CTA’s Innovation Studio launched its fifth problem statement to solicit proposals that would test new, state-of-the-art solutions to address the question: “How can CTA provide virtual reality or simulated training opportunities for rail operators to gain additional hands-on experience?” CTA sought solutions that are lightweight and easy to be transported between facilities, provide a realistic environment that mirrors CTA’s rail system, and can include scenario-based training for operators to refresh their skills.

After reviewing six unique proposals for potential solutions, the CTA selected a proposal from the Center for Research in Railway Technologies (CITEF), which offers a portable rail simulator for the 5000-series railcars.

“Being chosen by CTA for this pilot is a source of pride and a significant responsibility for CITEF. We are committed to building a simulator that captures the full operational complexity and becomes a valuable training tool,” said Jose Manuel Mera, Director of CITEF. “This pilot will lay the groundwork for a new training model, one that allows rail operators to practice not only standard but also critical scenarios that cannot be replicated in revenue service — improving both efficiency and safety.”

As part of this agreement, CTA will provide CITEF a stipend of $75,000 for the creation of a virtual reality rail simulator that is designed as an add-on training solution that will serve as a post-initial training tool. This solution offers CTA a flexible way for rail operators to gain additional practice in rare or complex troubleshooting scenarios (like propulsion loss or brake faults), and to also preview temporary rail service changes, such as single-track operations. .

The simulation model will include four consecutive rail stations and will operate with a virtual reality (VR) headset for operators to view the simulated environment along with real hardware like the master controller on the operator console. Combining the VR with a real console will provide operators with the muscular sensation and tactile feedback of real driving. The VR headset creates a highly immersive and realistic experience. Managers or instructors will be able to select from a few different weather situations and troubleshooting scenarios, such as signal failure, to provide additional learning opportunities.

The CTA will review the outcomes of the pilot by evaluating key performance indicators such as the simulator’s ability to replicate the real-world operating environment, usability of the VR technology, and portability of the simulator, among other metrics to determine whether a full-scale role out of a portable simulator solution would be beneficial to the agency.

​CTA Innovation Studio

Launched in 2024, the Innovation Studio is CTA’s initiative centered around testing new and state-of-the-art solutions to help solve issues facing all aspects of our agency and riders. Since the launch, CTA has released nine problem statements through Innovation Studio and launched ten pilots with companies and innovators. The Innovation Studio allows CTA to test new technologies and solutions within the unique transit environment before fully implementing them. Successful proposals are tested through real world pilots on the transit system, and pilots may be scaled into systemwide implementations.

To learn more about the CTA Innovation Studio, including past challenge statements, visit: transitchicago.com/innovation-studio.

CTA and Chicago’s Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS) amend existing Intergovernmental Agreements to increase outreach on rail system, fund additional shelter beds, and renew the two-year partnership

Today, the Chicago Transit Board approved an amendment to increase funds on an existing intergovernmental agreement (IGA) and to fund a new IGA between the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and the City of Chicago’s Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS). Together, these measures expand outreach support services for people experiencing homelessness on the CTA and guarantee funding for dedicated shelter beds.

Today’s Board action also authorizes a one-year term through December 31, 2027, with a second year-long option through 2028. Under the agreement, CTA will invest up to $4.2 million annually for the next two years.

Funding will support continued outreach services on CTA’s 24-hour Red and Blue Lines provided through DFSS’ delegate agencies, as well as dedicated shelter beds designed specifically for people sheltering on CTA property. 

"Since 2023, our partnership with DFSS has resulted in thousands of interactions with people in need of services, shelter and housing," said CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen. "Now we're building on that record by adding dedicated shelter beds, round-the-clock coverage on the Blue Line, and a nurse on the outreach team--so more riders in crisis get a direct path off the platform and into care."

Through the agreement, outreach specialists from partner agencies will continue conducting daily outreach aboard CTA Red and Blue line trains and at rail stations, engaging people experiencing homelessness and connecting them with available services. This agreement expands Blue Line outreach by adding a third team to achieve 24/7 coverage and integrates a nurse into the existing Red Line outreach team.

Outreach workers, who are not affiliated with law enforcement, may provide transportation to shelters, warming and cooling centers, healthcare providers, social service organizations and other community resources. Riders in need of support also have access to meals, clothing, showers, harm reduction services, behavioral health assessments and case management designed to support long-term housing stability. Recently, the outreach teams have also added a dedicated nurse to provide additional health support during outreach activities. 

One of the agreement’s most significant enhancements is funding for at least 30 dedicated shelter beds, providing a service-rich hotel or motel-style environment where individuals and couples can transition from a CTA property into a temporary shelter while receiving coordinated support services.

CTA’s ongoing partnership with DFSS has connected thousands of individuals with outreach services, shelter placements and housing opportunities since the program was introduced in 2023.

CTA continues to work closely with DFSS, community-based organizations including Thresholds and Haymarket Center, The Night Ministry, Cook County Health, the Chicago Department of Public Health, Illinois Department of Public Health, the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA), the Mayor’s Office and other partners to address homelessness through a coordinated, compassionate approach that balances rider safety, dignity and public health and safety.

On Wednesday the Chicago Transit Board also approved a new Safe Ride Specialists pilot program to further support unhoused riders, riders experiencing mental health crises, and youth. Safe Ride Specialists will ride the system in teams across targeted pilot zones to address anti-social behaviors and provide a reassuring presence for riders. Members of both teams will wear distinct, branded uniforms and are trained in trauma-informed care, crisis de-escalation, conflict resolution, and anti-bias principles.

About the Program

CTA first partnered with DFSS in 2023 to expand outreach services for individuals experiencing homelessness on the transit system. Through this partnership, outreach specialists engage individuals aboard trains and at stations, helping connect them with shelter, healthcare, mental health services, substance use treatment, case management and permanent housing opportunities.

Delegate agencies also provide transportation to available services and work to build trusting relationships with individuals over time, recognizing that successful housing outcomes often require multiple engagements and coordinated support.

PHILADELPHIA (August 11, 2026) — PIDC, Philadelphia’s public-private economic development corporation and master developer and operator of the Navy Yard, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), elected officials and community partners today celebrated the official launch of SEPTA Route 45 service to the Navy Yard, marking the return of direct SEPTA bus service between Center City and the Navy Yard seven days a week for the first time in more than a decade.

The milestone was commemorated with a ceremonial first bus arrival into the Navy Yard, where employees, partners and guests gathered to welcome the new service before remarks from Kate McNamara, Executive Vice President of the Navy Yard at PIDC, and Scott Sauer, General Manager of SEPTA. The celebration concluded with a community reception at AVE Normandy, the first residential community in the Navy Yard.

“The Navy Yard is one of Philadelphia’s strongest economic engines, supporting 16,000 jobs today with billions in new investment on the way,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Economic opportunity starts with something simple: a reliable, lower-cost ride to work. The new Route 45 routing adds daily SEPTA service to the Navy Yard, making it easier for more Philadelphians to access good jobs and family-sustaining careers without the cost of driving. That is economic mobility in action.”

“The Navy Yard continues to be a major driver of Philadelphia’s economic growth, creating jobs and attracting investment from across the region,” said Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson. “Expanding access to the Navy Yard through reliable public transportation helps ensure that more Philadelphians can connect to these opportunities. Route 45 is a meaningful investment in mobility, workforce access and the continued growth of this important Philadelphia destination.”

Beginning August 23, 2026, Route 45 will provide seven-day-a-week service between Center City and the Navy Yard, serving nine stops throughout the campus and connecting riders to major employers, residential communities, healthcare facilities, parks and neighborhood destinations. The new route complements PIDC’s existing Navy Yard Transit services, which will continue to provide connections to Center City Express and NRG Station, as well as transportation throughout the Navy Yard. In addition to providing direct service from Center City, Route 45 connects with the Broad Street Line at NRG Station, making it easier for riders from across Philadelphia to access the Navy Yard.

“The Navy Yard is growing rapidly, and we’re committed to expanding transportation options that support the campus’s continued evolution,” said Kate McNamara, Executive Vice President of the Navy Yard at PIDC. “The launch of Route 45 is another important investment in making the Navy Yard easier to access for the thousands of people who work, live, receive medical care and visit here every day. We are grateful to SEPTA, the City of Philadelphia and all of our partners who helped make this milestone possible and look forward to continuing to build a more connected Navy Yard.”

The Route 45 extension represents another step in the Navy Yard’s continued evolution as one of Philadelphia’s fastest-growing mixed-use neighborhoods. By expanding transportation choices, the service strengthens connections between the Navy Yard and the broader Philadelphia region while supporting continued growth across the campus.

“The new service to the Navy Yard reflects SEPTA’s commitment to connecting our customers to the places where they work, live and access opportunity,” said Scott Sauer, General Manager of SEPTA. “Route 45 provides riders with a new seven-day-a-week option to travel between Center City and the Navy Yard, while strengthening connections to SEPTA’s broader transit network. We’re proud to partner with PIDC and the City of Philadelphia to bring this service to the community.”

Route 45 Service Information

Service Begins: August 23, 2026

Schedule (Effective August 23, 2026): Route 45 will operate seven days a week between Center City and the Navy Yard, with weekday and weekend service schedules. For complete departure times and route information, visit SEPTA Route 45 Schedule.

Navy Yard Stops

• Broad Street & Crescent Drive
• Broad Street & Intrepid Avenue
• Broad Street & Constitution Avenue
• Kitty Hawk Avenue & 11th Street
• Kitty Hawk Avenue & 13th Street
• Kitty Hawk Avenue & League Island Boulevard
• Rouse Boulevard & Normandy Place
• League Island Boulevard & Constitution Avenue
• Normandy Place at Central Green

Complete route maps, schedules and fare information will be available through SEPTA. Information on transportation options to and throughout the Navy Yard, including Navy Yard Transit, biking, parking and visitor information, is available at NavyYard.org.

About PIDC and the Navy Yard

PIDC is Philadelphia’s citywide public-private economic development corporation, founded in 1958 by the City of Philadelphia and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. As a nonprofit, PIDC drives investment, supports business growth and fosters developments that create jobs, revitalize neighborhoods and drive growth to every corner of Philadelphia.

PIDC is also the master developer of the Navy Yard, leading its planning, development and operations. The Navy Yard is widely recognized as one of the country’s most successful redevelopments of a former military base, and today it is a thriving riverfront community in South Philadelphia. With more than 16,000 current employees, plus up to 18,000 more expected from future planned development as well as through maritime industry growth, 150+ companies, 8.9 million square feet of mixed-use development and $6 billion in new investment, the Navy Yard is poised for transformative growth. The Navy Yard is also home to 20+ acres of parks, dining options, public art and a variety of outdoor events.

For more information about PIDC, visit PIDCphila.com and follow us at @PIDCphila on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. For more information about the Navy Yard, visit NavyYard.org and follow us at @NavyYardPhila on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.

Participants Can Save Money on Gas, Earn Up to $600 When They Complete Five-Week Program

Following a successful Santa Monica pilot in 2023, Metro is rolling out Phase 2 of the One Car Challenge Pilot Program to determine whether incentives can reduce solo car trips and encourage other modes of transportation such as transit, carpooling and walking. Expanding upon 300 households in the Phase 1 Santa Monica pilot, this new phase will include up to 2,000 Los Angeles County households. Participants who keep at least one household car parked at home for five weeks and explore other ways to travel to their destinations can earn up to $600 per household.  

Phase 1 Results

Metro partnered with the City of Santa Monica in fall 2023 to launch Phase 1 of the One Car Challenge with a similar timeframe, rules and incentives. The 300 participants tracked their mileage through weekly odometer readings.

The pilot showed a significant behavioral shift away from solo car trips, with the most notable increases seen in walking and micromobility. Data tracked during the initial phase revealed that participants were 2.6 times more likely to avoid driving an extra vehicle, resulting in a documented 16.16% increase in walking, biking, and public transit utilization.

Expansion of the One Car Challenge

The findings from the Phase 2 pilot will be used in several ways. By expanding the program, Metro aims to generate statistically significant vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reduction data needed to determine whether incentivized projects such as the One Car Challenge could be used as a proven transportation demand management (TDM) tool in the future.

Additionally, Metro will use findings to guide long-term transportation policy, improve regional traffic flow and lower vehicle emissions.

How It Works and Automated Tracking

To participate, individuals will use Metro’s partner GoCarma’s smartphone app, which will request automated or photo reporting of a car’s odometer to measure reduced driving. The app will track travel behavior and handle vehicle odometer readings behind the scenes, making participation easier than ever.

• Who Can Join: LA County residents who are at least 21 years old. The challenge targets households maintaining more than one car, though single-car households are now welcome to apply.
• The Challenge: Keep one household car parked at home for five weeks and get around using transit, bike share, walking, carpooling, or any other alternative mode.
• The Reward: Earn up to $600 (up to $120 a week) for your household, dynamically disbursed upon completion.
• How It’s Tracked: Participants will use the GoCarma app, which automatically logs odometer readings seamlessly while respecting data privacy.
• Sign-ups open immediately. Interested residents can register online directly at metro.net/onecar.

Funding

Metro has secured a $2 million Regional Early Action Planning (REAP 2.0) grant from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) to fund Phase 2 of the One Car Challenge. The initiative is a core component of Metro’s broader Travel Rewards program, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and encouraging sustainable transportation across the region.

About Metro  

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is building the most ambitious transportation infrastructure program in the United States and is working to greatly improve mobility. Metro is the lead transportation planning and funding agency for L.A. County and carries nearly 1 million boardings daily on a fleet of 2,200 low-emission buses and six rail lines. Metro’s April 2026 Customer Experience Quarterly Pulse survey showed that customer satisfaction has risen to 87 percent.      

Stay informed by following Metro on The Source and El Pasajero at metro.net,       
facebook.com/losangelesmetro, x.com/metrolosangeles and  x.com/metroLAalerts and instagram.com/metrolosangeles

Care-Based Approach, Connectivity to City, County Services Key to Meaningful Progress

Metro today announced a 57% decrease in the number of people experiencing homelessness on the transit system since 2024, the second consecutive year of significant progress. The 2026 point-in-time count found 31% fewer people experiencing homelessness in the transit system than the previous year. This year’s count estimates 395 to 517 unhoused individuals on Metro compared to 631 to 684 in 2025 and 1,041 to 1,092 in 2024. As the point-in-time count is not an exact census, it is reported as a range to account for any statistical margins of error.

The results underscore the effectiveness of Metro’s integrated public safety model, which combines compassionate, care-based services with coordinated law enforcement and security to improve safety, connect vulnerable individuals with housing and supportive services, and enhance the customer experience across the transit system.

“During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, many more unhoused people began to populate our Metro system,” said Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “Under the leadership of CEO Stephanie Wiggins and the Metro Board during my first term as Chair, we combined compassionate outreach with enhanced public safety strategies to get people housed with the services they need. These results prove that our approach is working and these efforts must continue.”

The latest point-in-time count builds on the momentum Metro has established through its innovative care-based approach to public safety. In January, Metro’s Department of Public Safety launched its Care-Based Services Division, bringing together Metro Ambassadors, the Homeless Outreach Management and Engagement (HOME) program, and Community Intervention Specialists under a single division within the Metro Public Safety Department.

“This continued decline reflects the dedication of Metro employees and our many partners who work every day to address homelessness with compassion, accountability and coordination,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “Creating the Care-Based Services Division reinforced our belief that public safety is strongest when care-based services and enforcement work together. These results show that our model is making a real difference—for people experiencing homelessness and for the tens of thousands of customers who rely on Metro every day.”

Metro’s success continues to be driven by close collaboration with the Los Angeles County Department of Homeless Services & Housing, the City and County of Los Angeles, and community-based organizations that provide outreach, interim housing, permanent housing placement, and other supportive services. These partnerships ensure individuals encountered on the transit system have meaningful opportunities to transition from transit to appropriate care and housing. In fiscal year 2026, Metro’s outreach teams connected 354 individuals to permanent housing.

The Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count led by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was conducted between January 20-22, with the Metro count taking place on January 20, 2026. 62 volunteers consisting of outreach workers, Metro employees and riders counted the rail and busway system in one evening. The counting methodology used for Metro is the same as the county-wide effort, developed by LAHSA and aligned with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) standards. The Metro-specific results, which focused on stations, rights-of-way, and parking lots, were not included in LAHSA’s published regional total but provide an essential look at homelessness on the transit system. 

There is no better way to get to the Freedom 250 Grand Prix than Metro! Metro Rail will run normal weekend service with additional trains on standby for the end of the race to move customers safely and efficiently. 

The Grand Prix is accessible via the following Metro Rail stations: L’Enfant Plaza, Smithsonian, Federal Center SW, Archives, Federal Triangle, Metro Center, Gallery Place, and Judiciary Sq. Spectators will only be able to access the viewing area listed on their ticket (Stars or Stripes). Use the guide below to find the closest station for each security entrance.

Stations by security entrance

Viewing section: Stars

Security entrance: Gate A (10th St between Pennsylvania Av & Constitution Av)

Station exit and instructions: 

• Green and Yellow: Archives
• Blue, Orange, and Silver: Federal Triangle
• Red: Metro Center and walk a short distance to avoid a transfer

Security entrance: Gate B (12th St between Constitution Av & Madison Dr)

Station exit and instructions:

• Blue, Orange, and Silver: Federal Triangle or Smithsonian
• Red: Metro Center and walk a short distance to avoid a transfer

Viewing section: Stripes

Security entrance: Gate 1 (C St. between 3rd St & 6th St) 

Station exit and instructions: 

• Green and Yellow: Archives
• Red: Judiciary Sq and walk a short distance to avoid a transfer

Security entrance: Gate 2 (Pennsylvania Av between 7th St & 9th St)

Station exit and instructions: 

• Green and Yellow: Archives
• Red: Judiciary Sq and walk a short distance to avoid a transfer

Security entrance: Gate 5 (7th St & Maryland Av)

Station exit and instructions: 

• Blue, Orange, and Silver: L’Enfant Plaza or Federal Center SW
• Green and Yellow: L’Enfant Plaza

Security entrance: Gate 6 (4th St & C St)

Station exit and instructions: 

• Blue, Orange and Silver: Federal Center SW or L’Enfant Plaza
• Green and Yellow: L’Enfant Plaza

Customers should download the Metro Pulse app for trip planning, real-time service information, and live chat with customer service.

Special Edition Smart Trip Card

Customers wishing to commemorate the historic race may do so with a limited-edition Smart Trip card available at select stations beginning Aug. 20.

To purchase the commemorative card, look for specially marked fare vending machines at the following stations:

• Archives
• Friendship Heights
• Gallery Place
• Glenmont
• L’Enfant Plaza
• Metro Center
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• Smithsonian
• Union Station
• Washington Dulles International Airport

Metro Bus Detours Begin Aug. 1

Several routes near the National Mall will detour to accommodate set up and tear down for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix. The D1X and D10 routes have been on detour since June and will continue to reroute through Sept. 15. Routes D4X, D6X, D30, D32, D40, D44, D50 and D60 will be on detour from Aug. 1 through Sept. 15. Late-Night Service on routes D30, D40, D50, and D60 will also be on detour during this time. Additionally, the following routes will be on detour from Aug. 21 through Sept. 15: A40, C11, C55, D10 (additional detour), D24, and D1X (additional detour).

For more details, including detour times and maps, visit the Summer Bus Detours page.

Customer Service

Metro’s customer service team can assist with questions, trip planning, and more via chat, email, phone, or our social media channels. Visit the contact page for details.

Follow @wmata, @metrorailinfo, and @metrobusinfo on X or @wmata.com, @metrorailinfo.bsky.social, and @metrobusinfo on Bluesky for the latest service information.

Customers can call or text 202-GO-METRO (TTY 202-962-2033). Automated information available 24/7.

For service alerts via text or email, sign up for Metro Alerts, download the Metro Pulse app, or visit wmata.com/metropulse for real-time service information.

Following months of public engagement, stakeholder outreach and analysis of governance models at peer transit agencies, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) Board of Directors today approved steps to strengthen Metro’s governing structure. Because Metro’s governing structure is established in state law, any changes must be enacted by the Legislature.

During the Thursday Board meeting, the Board considered several governance alternatives for transmittal to the Legislature to provide balanced regional representation, strong accountability and effective oversight as Los Angeles County’s governmental structure evolves.

Board members unanimously voted to recommend the Board structure be expanded to include a voting rider representative. The Board’s recommendation also calls for giving the Board of Supervisors the flexibility to designate the elected County Chief Executive Officer (CEO) as one of its five Board members following the 2028 election. Further, once the elected Los Angeles County CEO position is filled as a result of Measure G, the Mayor of Los Angeles will appoint a transit advocate/rider. Once the Board of Supervisors expands to nine members in 2032, the County of Los Angeles will continue to hold five seats on the board, with the County CEO and the Board of Supervisors constituting the pool of officials eligible for appointment. All other appointment authorities would remain unchanged.

The board also asked the Ad Hoc Board Composition Committee to study whether a representative of labor and a small city should be added to the Board. This will include a review of existing city selection procedures to better address regional equity. The Ad Hoc Board Composition Committee is to report its findings in 90-120 days.

“We know that public transit is one of the most powerful tools we have to change and improve people’s lives,” said Metro Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “It is the duty of the LA Metro Board to continue to build out a public transit system that allows Angelenos in every community and people throughout our region to get around without a car. I’m proud that my proposal to reserve one of the City of Los Angeles’ public member seats for a transit advocate/rider was approved by the LA Metro Board today, along with Supervisor Hahn’s amended motion to add an additional voting rider seat. I want to thank all the members of the Ad Hoc Board Composition Committee for their hard work and leadership; we worked together to ensure we will have at least two voting members who are true representatives of the transit rider.”

Measure G, approved by Los Angeles County voters in 2024, expands the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors from five members to nine beginning in 2032 and creates an elected County Chief Executive Officer beginning in 2028. While Measure G does not directly change Metro’s Board, state law requires Metro to submit recommendations to the California Legislature on its Board composition after the Board of Supervisors expands.

To help develop those recommendations, an Ad Hoc Board Composition Committee was established in January. The committee, comprised of Metro Board members and community leaders, reviewed Metro’s governance history, examined governance models at transit agencies across the country and conducted extensive public outreach comprising more than 1,300 engagement touchpoints, including stakeholder meetings, listening sessions, surveys and transit stop outreach to gather feedback from riders and residents throughout Los Angeles County.

“Metro is delivering the largest transit infrastructure program in the nation, and strong governance is fundamental to that mission,” said Metro Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Wiggins. “I appreciate the Board’s careful consideration of this important issue and the extensive public engagement that helped form the committee’s work. Their input has helped shape a recommendation that prepares Metro for the future while maintaining the regional collaboration that has made the agency successful.” 

Regional youth-serving organizations partnered with Metro to give students hands-on access to careers, transportation, and civic learning

This week, Metro launched its new Discovery Day program, bringing middle school students from across the National Capital Region behind the scenes of America’s Metro System that moves hundreds of thousands of customers in the DMV. The program aligns with Metro's strategic priorities to strengthen community engagement, build the future workforce, and create meaningful connections between young people and public transportation.

During the week of July 20 - 24, students participated through community-based organizations in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Each group spent time exploring Metro operations, meeting transit professionals, learning about career opportunities, and discovering how public transportation supports the environment, accessibility, and economic opportunity. 

Metro's inaugural Discover Day Partners included:

• City Kids Wilderness Project (DC)
• Liberty's Promise (VA, MD, and DC)
• George Washington University's Changemakers with Elliott Hine Middle School (DC)

"Metro Discovery Day helps students connect what they learn in the classroom to real-world careers and community impact," said EVP and Chief Customer Officer Sarah Meyer. "By partnering with outstanding youth-serving organizations, we introduce the next generation of transit advocates to the people, professions, and public service that keep our region moving."

The pilot program reflects Metro's commitment to investing in future customers, employees, and stronger community partnerships. Students participated in hands-on activities, guided transit experiences, and behind-the-scenes learning opportunities at Metro facilities while engaging directly with the professionals who operate and support the system every day.

As part of the program, students also toured Metro's Integrated Command and Communications Center (MICC), where they learned how Metro coordinates rail, bus, and emergency operations across the region in real time. The visit gave students a firsthand look at the technology, teamwork, and decision-making required to keep the system operating safely and reliably. Learn more about the program at wmata.com/discoveryday.

Metro plans to build the pilot by expanding relationships with youth-serving organizations throughout the region and developing future opportunities for students to engage with public transportation, workforce development, and civic learning. Youth-serving organizations interested in future opportunities are encouraged to join Metro's Community Partner network to receive updates on upcoming programs and partnerships. Learn more at wmata.com/community.

“A Familiar Trip”  by artist Rob Ley at the Potomac Yard station.

Metro is proud to announce that public artworks at two Metro stations have been selected among the 2026 CODAawards Top 100 Projects, recognizing outstanding collaborations that successfully integrate commissioned art into public spaces. The two nominated projects are  “A Familiar Trip” and “A Subtle Trip” by Rob Ley at Potomac Yard station in Alexandria, VA and “The Perennials” by Anaitte Vaccaro at Downtown Largo station in Largo, MD.

Help Metro win the People’s Choice Award

While being named a Top 100 project is an honor, there is still an opportunity for Metro’s nominated artworks to receive additional recognition through the 2026 CODAawards People’s Choice Award.

Metro encourages community members, customers, employees, and public art supporters to cast their votes and help showcase these exceptional projects on a national stage.

Public voting is open through July 31, 2026. Every vote counts and can help Metro earn the People’s Choice Award.

Vote for the People's Choice Award

A continued tradition of excellence

The 2026 nominations continue Metro’s growing recognition in the field of public art. Since 2023, Metro has had six projects selected as CODAawards Top 100 projects, demonstrating the agency’s ongoing commitment to enriching the transit experience through innovative public art.

Metro has also previously earned a CODAaward for Tunnel Vision at the Eisenhower building, further highlighting the impact of art throughout the transit system.

“A Subtle Trip” by Rob Ley at the Potomac Yard station.

“The Perennials” by Anaitte Vaccaro at Downtown Largo station.

Regional Transit Partners Key in Helping Deliver World-Class Service

Metro and its transit partners delivered Golden Boot service to fans as Metro’s World Cup Games Enhanced Transit Service provided 212,865 rides directly to and from Los Angeles Stadium and 15 parking and transit hubs in Los Angeles and Orange Counties during the eight World Cup matches in Los Angeles. Other fans made their way to the stadium or to fan zones and watch parties via Metro’s regular bus and rail service, driving an overall increase in Metro ridership throughout the tournament.

“During the World Cup, Angelenos and visitors from around the world experienced Metro’s world-class service firsthand — more frequent train and bus service, zero public safety incidents, and an easy way to beat traffic,” said Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Metro is showing what’s possible when we invest in local transit and work across every level of government to deliver for Los Angeles.”

Customer Experience

In addition to offering direct service to Los Angeles Stadium, Metro focused on ensuring the customer experience helped keep fans engaged and comfortable. More than 1,700 non-contract employees were deployed throughout the system, the 15 parking and transit locations and the official fan zones during the World Cup to help support the fan experience by answering questions and serving as human wayfinders. 

Beating the Heat

To help mitigate the heat for fans waiting to board buses to the matches, Metro provided hydration stations with chilled water, along with misting fans, shade, sunscreen and cooling towels. 

Expanded Accessibility Tools

Metro expanded accessibility for blind and visually impaired customers by piloting a program with Waymap, a navigation platform that provides accurate indoor and outdoor wayfinding for blind and visually impaired customers in 12 key stations.

Neurodiversity Support

On World Cup match days and during the Union Station fan zone, Metro provided temporary sensory pods that were set up at key transfer stations to provide a quiet, calming environment for individuals who may be overstimulated by crowds, lighting or noise. More than 730 people visited the pods during the World Cup.

Safety

Safety was a top priority for Metro and there were zero safety incidents reported related to Metro’s World Cup Games Enhanced Service.

“I am immensely proud of the hard work Metro employees from throughout the organization did in preparation for and during the World Cup that allowed us to deliver this world-class service to fans from around the world,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “I’m also appreciative of the strong partnerships from our regional transit partners and city, state and federal officials, which were critical to our success. Fans choosing to go Metro not only started their fan experience and celebrations on Metro, they also helped remove an estimated 42,573 cars from the road during the tournament.”

Regional Transit Partners

Metro’s World Cup Enhanced Service was provided by Metro in conjunction with key transit partners: Big Blue Bus, Culver City Transit, Foothill Transit, Long Beach Transit, Montebello Bus Lines, Norwalk Transit System, OmniTrans, Orange County Transportation Authority, Riverside Transit Agency, Torrance Transit, Metrolink, Greyhound/FlixBus, Pacific Surfliner and Metro Micro/Uber.

Funding

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) allocated $100 million to transit systems across the United States to support transit for fans to and from the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and consistent with a formula written into the funding legislation, Metro coordinated the use of $9.6 million in FTA funding to support the Metro Enhanced World Cup service.
 

Increased Ridership Paired with High Customer Satisfaction Scores

In June, Metro was in the center of the action as it provided 26,265,480 rides, 2 million more than last June, representing a 9% growth as Angelenos and visitors chose to go Metro for their ride to World Cup fan zones and celebrations, concerts, museums and everyday activities.

Total June ridership increased for both weekdays and weekends. Weekday ridership was 953,820 which grew 8.4% from June 2025, Saturdays increased nearly 13% year-over-year to 708,826 and Sundays increased 7.7% to 611,534 from June 2025.

June marked the one-year anniversary of the grand opening of the LAX/Metro Transit Center and the one-month anniversary of the opening of the D Line Extension’s three new stations at Wilshire/La Brea, Wilshire/Fairfax and Wilshire/La Cienega, with the added connectivity and easier access to LAX and the culture, cuisine and commerce in mid-Wilshire driving significant ridership increases and the C, D and K lines. Most notably, the D line ridership is up more than 45% overall and 70% on Saturdays from June 2024 (it was closed in June 2025 for work related to the extension.)   

Additional events that drove increased ridership include the L.A. Pride Parade in Hollywood, WeHo Pride festivities, the new Hollywood Bowl season, and concerts by Shakira at the Intuit Dome and Ariana Grande at Crypto.com Arena.

These numbers exclude ridership on the direct enhanced service routes to Los Angeles Stadium for World Cup fans attending the matches, which will be announced later this week.

Bus Ridership Grows

Bus ridership was up 6.8% year-over-year, with the biggest increase on Saturdays, up 9.1% to 514,987 from June 2025. Weekday travel was also up 5.2% from last year with 721,846 riders. The J line, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route used by many riders for World Cup activities, was up 11.7% year-over-year. Total bus ridership in June was 19,703,996.

Rail Ridership Continues to Grow
Rail ridership has continued to attract more riders. In June, ridership was 6,561,484, a 21.8% year-over-year increase. The numbers increased every day of the week over June 2025 with more riders taking rail for weekend activities, with the Saturday ridership in June nearly on par with rail weekday average ridership in June 2025.

Here are some of the year-over-year highlights:

• A line ridership increased 22.1%, to 2,130,886 with the strongest growth on Saturdays at 30.4%
• B/D lines grew 29.2% to 2,051,884 and an impressive 45% growth on Saturdays
• C line increased 11.6% to 570,254 with a 19.3% increase on Sundays
• E line grew 16.5% overall to 1,542,032, with a 22.7% increase on Sundays
• K line increased 15.6% overall to 266,428 and 19.3% on weekdays

In a step forward for simplifying fare payment within the region, Arlington Transit (ART) now accepts Metro Lift reduced-fare benefits on all ART bus routes as of July 1, 2026, creating a more seamless and affordable transit experience for low-income customers. 

Metro Lift provides eligible customers, such as those receiving SNAP benefits, 50% off fares on Metro Rail and Metro Bus. Since launching three years ago, Metro has worked with regional transit providers to expand acceptance of the program and make public transportation more accessible and affordable across the Washington metropolitan area. ART is the first of Metro’s regional partners to adopt Metro Lift. 

"Metro Lift helps ensure that cost is not a barrier to accessing jobs, education, healthcare, and other destinations," said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. "ART's participation strengthens our shared commitment to providing a seamless regional transportation experience and makes it easier for customers to travel throughout the region using affordable, integrated transit services." 

This policy change supports the goals of the regional DMVMoves initiative, which seeks to improve connectivity and create a more integrated transportation network across the DMV. Since the program launched in 2023 to July 1, 2026 — 18,700 customers have enrolled. 

“Ensuring reliable access to essential services, employment, and educational opportunities is critical to keeping our region running. I applaud Arlington Transit and WMATA for their agreement on Metro Lift, which helps advance our DMVMoves vision for more seamless, integrated, world-class transit,” said Clark Mercer, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.   

"The adoption of Metro Lift reflects Arlington Transit’s commitment to delivering a more affordable, seamless, and customer-focused experience through leveraging a regional partnership with WMATA,” said Pierre Hollman, Chief of Arlington Transit. “Metro Lift will allow us to provide eligible participants with travel options to help connect them to various opportunities throughout Arlington." 

“Arlington is proud to be the first regional partner to adopt Metro Lift”, said Arlington County Board Chair Matt de Ferranti. “Not only will this change streamline user experience, but it also furthers our commitment to reducing and eliminating roadblocks to low-income residents looking for an affordable and reliable way to get around our community. We are incredibly thankful for our continued partnership with WMATA in this shared mission.”   

Arlington County's current Low-Income Fare Program was established during the COVID-19 pandemic and relies on manually distributed, pre-loaded Smart Trip cards. Transitioning to Metro Lift will streamline program administration while providing customers with a consistent reduced-fare experience across multiple transit systems. 

Metro estimates ART's participation in Metro Lift will generate approximately 8,000 additional transit trips and provide about $21,000 in customer fare savings during the first year of implementation. Arlington County estimates that replacing its existing program with Metro Lift will reduce administrative and operating costs by approximately $550,000 during Fiscal Year 2027. 

The transition follows approval by the Arlington County Board on May 16, 2026, authorizing ART to adopt Metro Lift and phase out its existing Low-Income Fare Program, which was concluded on June 30, 2026. 

Customers interested in learning more about Metro Lift eligibility and benefits can visit wmata.com/metrolift. 

Service information has been updated for July 3 and 4.

Metro is ready to move crowds for historic Fourth of July festivities in honor of the 250^th anniversary of the United States. Fares will be free systemwide from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Metro Rail service will increase starting at 5 p.m. to facilitate trips safely and efficiently.

Enhanced security, including fencing around most of the National Mall, airport-style checkpoints, and road closures, may make the area feel more restricted than usual, so customers should make a plan ahead of travel.

“Metro is honored to help celebrate America’s 250^th and move residents and tourists from around the country — and the world,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. “For 50 years, Metro has been a key part of major events in the Nation’s Capital, and we look forward to providing the same safe, frequent, reliable service our customers have come to expect.”

Event officials and Metro staff will direct customers on the Mall to specific stations after the fireworks to help with crowd control. Metro Transit Police will be at station entrances to monitor crowd flow and may, at times, limit entry to prevent overcrowding.

To get to and from the Salute to America security entrance on 14^th Street between Constitution and Independence, use Federal Triangle or Smithsonian stations on the Orange, Blue, and Silver lines. Red Line customers can exit at Metro Center and walk to avoid a transfer.

To get to and from the Great American State Fair security entrances at 12^th and Madison, 12^th and Jefferson, 7th and Madison, or 7th and Jefferson, use the L’Enfant Plaza (Orange, Blue, Silver, Green, and Yellow lines) or Archives (Green and Yellow lines) station. Red Line customers can exit at Gallery Place and walk to avoid a transfer. Be sure to check out Metro’s 1000-series and 8000-series train exhibits near 4^th and Madison.

Customers may also consider using alternate stations that are a farther walk to access activities on the National Mall, including Gallery Place, Judiciary Square, Union Station, Foggy Bottom, Capitol South, and Federal Center SW.

In addition, Arlington Cemetery station will stay open later than usual until 2 a.m.

Customers should download the Metro Pulse app for trip planning, real-time service information, and live chat with customer service.

Keep your eye out for our special America 250-themed wrapped train, buses and Metro Access vehicle. You can track the train and bus in real time at WMATA.com/live and click on “special edition.”

Metro Rail

On July 3, Metro Rail will run weekend service and be open from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.

On July 4, Metro Rail will run normal Saturday service until 5 p.m. After 5 p.m., additional trains will go into service.

Red Line: Trains every 6 minutes before 5 p.m.; trains every 5 minutes after 5 p.m.

Orange Line: Trains every 12 minutes before 5 p.m.; trains every 10 minutes after 5 p.m.

Silver Line: Trains every 12 minutes before 5 p.m.; trains every 10 minutes after 5 p.m.

Blue Line: Trains every 12 minutes before 5 p.m.; trains every 10 minutes after 5 p.m.

Green Line: Trains every 8 minutes before 5 p.m.; trains every 6 minutes after 5 p.m.

Yellow Line: Trains every 8 minutes before 5 p.m.; trains every 6 minutes after 5 p.m.

In the downtown area where multiple train lines use the same track, trains will arrive every 3-4 minutes.

Regular fares will be in effect July 3 and until 5 p.m. on July 4. All trips after 5 p.m. on July 4 will be fare-free.

Metro Bus

On July 3, Metro Bus will operate on a regular Sunday schedule.

On July 4, Metro Bus will operate on a regular Saturday schedule. Customers traveling near the National Mall are advised to expect detours and delays, or some routes may be truncated due to road closures.

Several routes will detour on Fourth of July for parades and other events around the region including the A27, A58, C53, C55, D1X, D4X, D6X, D10, D30, D32, D40, D44, D50, D60, D74, D94, F23, M22, P12, and the P21.

For more details, including detour times and maps, visit the Summer Bus Detours page.

Regular fares will be in effect July 3 and until 5 p.m. on July 4. All trips after 5 p.m. on July 4 will be fare-free.

Metro Access

Metro Access customers may make a reservation to travel on the holiday; however, pre-scheduled subscription trips will be cancelled. Separate reservations can be made online or by calling 301-562-5360 (TTY 301-588-7535).

Regular fares will be in effect July 3 and until 5 p.m. on July 4. All trips after 5 p.m. on July 4 will be fare-free.

Travel Tips

• Signage will be deployed across the system to help provide customers with information on where to enter, exit, and queue in line to enter/exit stations. 
• Customers can skip the fare machines and simply tap a mobile or physical credit/debit card at the bus fareboxes or to enter and exit the rail faregates prior to 5 p.m. Fares will be free after 5 p.m., and no tap will be needed.
• Parking at all Metro facilities will be free on the Fourth of July.
• Smithsonian station typically gets the most crowded, and trains may bypass the station, passing through without stopping, if the station is overcrowded. After 5 p.m., the station may become exit only to accommodate crowds traveling to the National Mall, and entry only after 9 p.m.
• After fireworks end, it may take up to an hour or more for lines to clear at Smithsonian station. If possible, delay return travel or use an alternate station.

Customer Service

Metro’s customer service team can assist with questions, trip planning, and more via chat, email, phone, or our social media channels. Visit the contact page for details.

Follow @wmata, @metrorailinfo, and @metrobusinfo on X or @wmata.com, @metrorailinfo.bsky.social, and @metrobusinfo on Bluesky for the latest service information.

Customers can call 202-GO-METRO (TTY 202-962-2033). Automated information available 24/7.

For service alerts via text or email, sign up for Metro Alerts, download the Metro Pulse app, or visit wmata.com/metropulse for real-time service information.

Today, as part of our 50th anniversary celebration, Metro will open our 50 Years of Metro Pop-Up Shop. It’s stocked with everything you need to celebrate five decades of America’s Metro System, including exclusive 50th anniversary styles, rare finds, authentic bus stop signs, and a little DMV pride to honor the region's most iconic ride. 

The shop will have tees featuring original Metro concept art, commemorative quarter-zips honoring the system anniversary and the opening of each Metro Rail line, vintage-style crop tops and baby tees, hats, postcards, and other classic pieces. Want to send a note to friends or family? If you buy a postcard and fill it out in-store, we’ll take care of stamping and mailing!

Metro 50th Pop-Up Shop Details 

Dates: Open daily (including holidays) from Thursday, June 25 to Friday, July 10

Hours: 

Weekdays: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (extended hours until 7 p.m. on Wednesdays and on June 26)

Weekends: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Address: 300 7th St. SW, Washington, D.C. 20024

Getting there: Take the Green, Yellow, Orange, Blue, or Silver lines to L’Enfant Plaza and use Exit B. Cross D Street SW to reach the entrance of the pop-up shop. 

Metro is ensuring accessibility and inclusion for all customers going to the matches during FIFA World Cup 2026™ by enhancing the experience with calming rooms, improved wayfinding for the visually impaired and resources to beat the heat.   

“People from around the world are visiting Los Angeles during the World Cup and as the official transportation provider for the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host City, Metro is helping make the trip as stress free and comfortable as possible,” said Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair. “We are not only helping riders get to the matches but also providing support services to make their transit experience even better such as a spot to grab a cool drink of water or a place away from the crowds.”

Support for Neurodiverse Customers

On World Cup match days and during the Fan Zone at Union Station from June 25-28, there are inflatable sensory rooms at key transfer stations, including Union Station, 7^th Street/Metro Center Station and LAX/Metro Transit Center Station. These temporary, on-site spaces are designed by Kulture City, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to sensory accessibility. These spaces function as a quiet, calming environment for individuals who may become overstimulated by crowds, lighting or noise. For people affected by sensory overload from unfamiliar places, these rooms can provide a respite from travel.

The inflatable rooms feature comfortable seating such as bean bags or mats, an enclosed environment that helps minimize noise and external stimulation, reduced or adjustable lighting, sensory tools such as fidget and tactile items and noise-reducing headphones. Entry is also accessible for individuals using mobility devices.

Expanded Accessibility Tools

Metro also expanded accessibility through a pilot partnership with Waymap, a navigation platform that provides accurate indoor and outdoor wayfinding for blind and visually impaired customers. The technology is available at six rail stations: LAX/Metro Transit Center, Union Station, 7th Street/Metro Center, Civic Center, Wilshire/Vermont, and Vermont/Santa Monica. By June 26, the app will be available at six additional stations: Expo/Crenshaw, Little Tokyo/Arts District, Historic Broadway, Grand Avenue Arts/Bunker Hill, Pershing Square and Vermont/Beverly.

Waymap provides QR codes and direct download links to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Unlike traditional navigation tools that rely on GPS, Waymap uses advanced motion science and digital mapping technology to deliver precise guidance through complex transit environments. If the pilot is successful, and funding is available, Metro will add data from more stations to the app.

Beating the Heat

Metro is also providing hydration stations so that on the hottest days, riders can cool off and hydrate while traveling to and from the matches at LA Stadium. Each hydration station provides water, chilled and tested, for use in reusable water bottles, misting fans, shade canopies, sunscreen and cooling towels. For those without a reusable water bottle, paper cups are available for a cool drink.

The hydration stations are located throughout the system at park and ride locations and 20 stations providing enhanced bus service to the games. Stations include; Downtown Inglewood, Downtown Santa Monica, Fairfax, Leimert Park, Little Tokyo, Mariachi Plaza, Memorial Park, Reseda, Wilshire/Western, LAX/MTC Transit Center, North Hollywood, Union Station, Crenshaw (C Line), El Camino College, Harbor Gateway Transit Center, Hawthorn/Lennox and Pierce College.

Riders can find the Metro hydration stations to refill their reusable water bottles by using the WeTap app interactive map. Additional cooling centers can be located at Cool Spots LA interactive map for cooling centers and hydration stations across LA City and County to cool down during extreme heat days.

Extreme heat and large crowds can make travel more challenging. Whether heading to World Cup matches, a concert, festival or community event, Metro encourages everyone to be prepared for extreme heat days.

“Transit systems are built for people, and they should provide the resources everyone needs to travel safely, comfortably and confidently,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “From navigation tools and calming spaces to hydration stations and other customer amenities, we’re making Metro more accessible, inclusive and welcoming as part of our efforts to serve both Angelenos and visitors during the World Cup.”

The improved accessibility amenities are a part of a larger effort at Metro to make the system better for all its customers. This includes a total of 64 safe and clean Throne restrooms that customers can unlock using a mobile phone, as well as the recent introduction of contactless payments, which allows customers to pay their fare at fare gates using their credit or debit card, and the launch of the Official LA Metro Mobile app, which customers can use to plan their transit route, and receive alerts about any detours or disruptions.

More information and a handy guidebook to help plan and travel safely can be found at Metro.net. 

Sixth Consecutive Month of Year-Over-Year Rail Ridership Growth

People are choosing Metro rail more than they have in over six years. Rail ridership increased 9.5% compared to the same period last year, driven by a remarkable 62% jump on the D line following the opening of three new stations on May 8. Weekend rail ridership was especially strong, soaring 18% as riders embraced expanded access to jobs, entertainment, dining and cultural destinations. Total system ridership for May, including bus and rail, was 26,966,657.

“The opening of the new D Line stations is already making a meaningful difference, connecting more Angelenos to jobs, educational opportunities, entertainment, and cultural destinations across our region,” said Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair.
“These ridership numbers show that when we invest in fast, reliable and convenient transit, people respond. Seeing rail ridership reach its highest levels in more than six years—and continue to grow for a sixth consecutive month—is a strong sign that Metro’s investments are delivering real value to the communities we serve.”  

Rail Sees Strong Ridership
During May, rail ridership totaled 6,472,058. The new D Line stations added 8,000 – 10,000 new riders per day but they were not the only success stories of the month. Overall, weekday rail ridership rose 8%, while weekend ridership rose 18%. The opening of the three new D line stations helped drive ridership even though they were not open the entire month. The grand opening weekend celebrations drew thousands throughout the weekend to celebrate local businesses and cultural events. In addition, The L.A. County Fair, Jazz at LACMA and the Demi Lovato concert at the KIA Forum contributed to increased numbers.

Here are some of the year-over-year highlights:

• A line ridership increased 11.3%, continuing its strong performance and also experiencing strong growth on weekends, including 21.3% on Saturdays and 18.5% on Sundays
• B line had a 7% increase with the biggest gains on Saturdays and Sundays
• D line increased 62% with especially high growth on the weekends at nearly 80%
• E line continued its growth streak, increasing 4%
• K line experienced a significant 48% increase with weekends seeing the highest increases at 62.7% and 60.5% for Saturdays and Sundays, respectively

“Tens of thousands more people each day are choosing Metro rail because – frankly – it provides a better alternative than sitting in traffic, especially when you look at the D Line, which cuts commute times in half,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “We expect the rail numbers to increase as more people discover the convenience as well as the cost and time savings of using the system.”

Bus Ridership Down Slightly
Bus ridership decreased 4.9% year-over-year, resulting in an overall ridership decrease of 1.8%. The 720 had a 6.5% decrease in year-over-year ridership, largely driven by the expansion of the D line which largely follows the same route along Wilshire Boulevard. Bus ridership still makes up most of Metro’s numbers, with ridership at 20,494,599 for the month.

About Metro
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is building the most ambitious transportation infrastructure program in the United States and is working to greatly improve mobility. Metro is the lead transportation planning and funding agency for L.A. County and carries nearly 1 million boardings daily on a fleet of 2,200 low-emission buses and six rail lines. The latest October 2025 customer experience survey showed that customer satisfaction has risen to 87 percent.    
 
Stay informed by following Metro on The Source and El Pasajero at metro.net,        
facebook.com/losangelesmetro, x.com/metrolosangeles and x.com/metroLAalerts and  instagram.com/metrolosangeles.  

Metrolink, Flix/Greyhound, Amtrak/Pacific Surfliner, Uber to Provide Seamless Transit Across Southern California

Getting to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches at Los Angeles Stadium will be a seamless experience as Metro, with additional regional transit and rideshare partners, will provide direct enhanced bus service from 15 locations for all eight matches in Los Angeles.

“With the World Cup less than a week away, we want to assure fans that Metro and its transit partners are ready to provide a seamless transportation experience for those attending the games,” said Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair. “Transportation agencies that serve Southern California will provide seamless, easy and accessible travel for local riders as well as those visiting our region.”

Metro World Cup Enhanced Bus Service

Metro’s World Cup Enhanced Bus Service will take fans directly to Los Angeles Stadium from 15 locations in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, including: El Camino College, Crenshaw Metro Station, Culver City Transit Center, Downtown Long Beach, Downtown Santa Monica, Harbor Gateway Transit Center, Hawthorne/Lennox Metro Station, North Hollywood Metro Station, Pierce College Station, Torrance Transit Center, LA Union Station, LAX/Metro Transit Center, ARTIC Anaheim Amtrak Station, Newport Transportation Center and several locations near LAX. Fare for the service is $1.75 each way.

Fans will arrive at the Los Angeles Stadium up to three hours before kickoff and the last service will depart up to 120 minutes after the match ends. Visit metro.net/worldcup for additional information and to reserve parking in advance.

FlixBus and Greyhound

FlixBus and Greyhound are ready to support increased intercity travel demand across Southern California as Los Angeles prepares to welcome fans from around the world during the tournament. The network will continue connecting travelers from cities including San Diego, Bakersfield, Las Vegas and beyond into key regional hubs such as Union Station, Long Beach Downtown Transit Gallery and Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center, helping visitors and residents seamlessly access LA Metro services to reach matches and events across the region. As demand for affordable and flexible transportation continues to grow, intercity bus service plays an important role in reducing congestion, easing parking demand around venues, and expanding access to mobility during large-scale events.

Metrolink

Metrolink, Southern California’s regional passenger rail system, expands transit options beyond Los Angeles County, allowing fútbol fans to avoid gridlock and pricey matchday parking. Metrolink riders enjoy free connections to LA Metro at Union Station and OC Bus at the Anaheim Station in Orange County, making it easy to reach the stadium, fan festivals and watch parties. Enhanced Metrolink service will accommodate post-event travel out of Downtown Los Angeles, following all eight local matches and official FIFA Fan Zone dates at LA Union Station from June 25-28. Additional fan events accessible directly via Metrolink or via free, short connections on Metro include LA Memorial Coliseum from June 11-15; the Pomona Fairplex on July 14, 15, 18 and 19; and Downtown Burbank from July 18-19. Learn more and plan your trip at metrolinktrains.com/world-cup.

Pacific Surfliner

Pacific Surfliner makes it easy to travel to Los Angeles without the stress of driving to the matches during World Cup. On select match days, additional late-night service and adjusted departures will help fans return home after the game, including extended service to destinations such as San Diego, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo. Special Fan Zone service on July 18–19 will also include additional stops at Burbank Downtown for easier access to events and activities.

“Transit is the best, most affordable and most convenient way to get to all the World Cup festivities around LA County,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “Together with 13 other transit agencies, our longer distance carrier partners and rideshare partner, Metro will provide a world-class transit experience so fans can get the most out of the World Cup.”

Metro Micro and Uber

Metro added two temporary Metro Micro Zones, providing a $10 discount for the first 2,500 trips per match day on Uber rides booked in the greater Hollywood and East LA areas to and from the Crenshaw/Expo E Line Station and Union Station.  To receive the discount, riders must book their ride as a micro transit trip through the Metro Micro app – the $10 discount is applied automatically to the fare at the time of booking. To board Metro’s enhanced bus service to Los Angeles Stadium, riders will open the Past Trips screen in the Metro Micro app and show their completed Uber trip as proof of travel. At the Crenshaw/Expo station Metro staff will provide access to the station once riders show their completed trip receipt in the app.

Discounted trips can only be booked between the Hollywood zone and the Crenshaw/Expo K Line station and East LA zone and Union Station on the eight match days. The service provided by Uber allows for free two-hour transfer to the K Line at Crenshaw/Expo station and the World Cup enhanced bus service going to and from the game for everyone in the party. Standard Metro fare policy rules apply. Visit metro.net/micro for additional information.

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) today announced that its recruitment of law enforcement officers is off to a strong start with 950 applications received in the first 24 hours. The agency has entered the next phase of building its department of public safety and began recruiting for qualified law enforcement officers to serve among the department’s first sworn personnel. This foundational group of officers will play a critical role in shaping the department’s culture, policies, and community-focused approach from the ground up.

To support the recruitment effort, last week Metro launched a dedicated website, JoinMetroDPS.com, where prospective candidates can learn more about the department’s mission, hiring process, training model, and community-centered policing philosophy. The site includes application materials, minimum qualifications and details about the competitive pay and robust benefit package being offered.

“Metro’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety, build trust, and create a welcoming environment for all riders is evidenced by this important milestone,” said Fernado Dutra, Metro Board Chair.

“We are excited to mark this important milestone as we begin this critical next phase of building out Metro’s own Department of Public Safety. said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “We have built a strong foundation that reflects our deep commitment to accountability, training, and community-centered policing to lead our training program. Metro is leading the nation in creating a new approach to public safety for transit as it builds its Department of Public Safety (DPS) from the ground up.”

The DPS is led by seasoned law enforcement professionals with experience at the local and federal levels and operates as part of Metro’s broader care-based public safety approach. Unlike traditional models that rely primarily on law enforcement, Metro integrates ambassadors, homeless outreach teams, crisis and community intervention teams to assist customers and respond to quality-of-life issues. By matching each situation with the most appropriate responder, Metro is creating a more holistic public safety model that promotes safety, dignity, and support for riders while enabling law enforcement officers to focus on criminal activity and urgent safety concerns.

As a result, Metro has made significant progress in improving safety across its bus and rail system. Violent crime declined for the second consecutive year in 2025, reaching its lowest level since 2021, while customer satisfaction with safety measures reached record highs. The trend continued in March 2026, the most recent month for which crime data is available, with a 13.6% decrease in overall crime compared to March 2025.

In addition to their law enforcement training, all officers will receive specialized training tailored to the transit environment, including awareness issues that are unique to transit, trauma-informed response, de-escalation, and customer service.

“This is a rare opportunity in law enforcement,” said Metro Chief of Police and Emergency Management William Scott. “Joining this department means more than taking a job, it means helping to build a culture that protects the community from day one. We are looking for individuals who are committed to service, who value relationships, and who want a voice in creating the kind of department they’ve always wanted to join.”

On June 28, 2024, the Metro Board of Directors unanimously approved the establishment of an in-house public safety department to ensure increased visibility, accountability, and consistent service delivery. By the end of 2029, Metro’s Department of Public Safety will complete the deployment of its own hired and specially trained law enforcement officers in the field, alongside ambassadors, homeless outreach, and crisis response teams utilizing a zone-based deployment model. Each zone will have at least one crisis co-response team assigned to respond to calls and do proactive engagement on board trains, buses, and at Metro transit stations.

Adjustments Effective June 7 Support On-Time Performance; NextGen Bus Plan Goals

In response to customer and staff feedback, as well as transit performance data, Metro will implement service adjustments for bus and rail effective Sunday, June 7. These biannual changes aim to enhance schedule reliability, align capacity with ridership demand and support Metro’s NextGen Bus Plan.
response to customer and staff feedback, as
The primary focus of the June 2026 program is improving on-time performance by adjusting schedules to reflect real-world street conditions. Metro will revise timetables for 42 weekday routes, 37 Saturday routes and 22 Sunday routes, reducing passenger wait times and ensuring more reliable transfers.

Bus Service Level Adjustments (Additions & Reductions)

To improve efficiency, Metro will modify service on select bus lines where ridership does not match capacity. Hours saved from these minor service reductions will be reinvested into trip additions and extended service that will alleviate crowding and enhance reliability.

Service Additions

To mitigate peak crowding on high-demand routes, additional service has been introduced. Key enhancements include:

South Los Angeles/Downtown LA

• Line 48 (Weekday): Three total trips added, featuring two southbound morning peak trips between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m., and one northbound trip departing San Pedro Street/Manchester Avenue at 8:45 a.m.

San Fernando Valley (North)

• Line 166 (Weekday): One eastbound trip added during the 2 p.m. block.

San Fernando Valley (West)

• Line 244 (Weekday): One specialized morning trip was added, operating on school days only, to get a high number of students safely to Chatsworth High School.

San Gabriel Valley / Downtown LA

• Line 489 (Weekday): One eastbound evening commuter trip added during the 6 p.m. period.

South Bay / Gateway Cities / Downtown LA

• J Line (910) (Saturday & Sunday): One weekend trip added at 11:40 a.m. to meet midday regional demand.

Service Reductions

A limited number of low-ridership routes are being eliminated on select lines, including:

Westside / Downtown LA

• Line 2 (Weekday): Reduction of one eastbound trip in the 5 a.m. hour.

Century City / Central LA / Downtown LA

• Line 28 (Weekday): Reduction of one eastbound trip in the 9 a.m. hour and one westbound trip in the 6 p.m. hour.

Mid-City / Westlake / South Los Angeles

• Line 51 (Weekday): Peak frequencies adjusted from 5-minute headways to a 5.5- to 7.5-minute range during morning and afternoon peak windows to reflect standard service tiers defined in the NextGen Bus Plan.

Central LA / South Los Angeles

• Line 204 (Weekday & Saturday): Reduction of two weekday trips (6 p.m. northbound and 7 p.m. southbound) and one Saturday trip (6 p.m. northbound).

Bus Route Changes & Stop Relocations
San Fernando Valley (West)

• Line 162 (North Hollywood – Woodland Hills): In anticipation of a new local fast-food restaurant’s traffic, currently under construction at Ventura Boulevard and Rigoletto Street, Metro will implement a modified westbound terminal loop. As a result, the southbound stop at Fallbrook Avenue and Ventura Boulevard will be permanently relocated to Ventura Boulevard eastbound at Fallbrook Avenue. Buses will complete their modified loop via Fallbrook Avenue, Burbank Boulevard, left on Ventura Boulevard, right on Ponce Avenue, right on Del Valle Street and right on Fallbrook Avenue back to the terminal stop.

Rail System Infrastructure & Performance Updates

Metro is adjusting rail service schedules across the system to support reliability and operational maintenance. These changes do not impact service frequencies or operating hours. Changes include:

Long Beach to Downtown LA/Pasadena/Azusa

• A Line: Timetables are being recalibrated to maximize on-time reliability and preserve adequate operational buffers for mid-route vehicle cleaning and operator shift exchanges at Union Station.

Westside/Central LA/San Fernando Valley/Downtown LA

• B and D Lines: minor late-night modifications for weekday and weekend departures after 9 p.m. feature slight adjustments for better on-time reliability, with final trains from the new La Cienega (D Line) terminus and Union Station (B and D Lines) departing exactly one minute later.

South Bay / Southeast LA / LAX Regional

• C Line: To improve direct regional access to Los Angeles International Airport, the final two westbound C Line trips of the night will extend past their former terminus at Aviation/Century Station to serve the new LAX/Metro Transit Center Station on weekdays and weekends alike.

Crenshaw District / Inglewood / Westchester

• K Line: Minor adjustments are being applied to weekday schedules to strengthen overall on-time reliability.

To view all updates and access new schedules, please visit metro.net/mybus

New Official Mobile App, Contactless Payments to Streamline Customer Experience

B-Roll and Photos

Metro’s customer experience took a major step forward in modernizing the rider journey with the launch of the Official LA Metro mobile app and contactless credit and debit fare payment. Together, these new technologies create a more intuitive, connected, and accessible transit system by making it easier than ever for everyday riders and visitors traveling throughout Los Angeles County for major global events, including this summer’s FIFA World Cup 2026™.

“Today’s launch represents a significant step forward in how Metro serves its customers,” said Fernando Dutra, Metro Board Chair. “By introducing credit and debit fare payments and an official mobile app, we’re making transit simpler, shortening lines, improving speed, and making our system easier to use for daily commutes, special events, and visitors from around the world.”

The new credit and debit payment system allows customers to simply tap their credit or debit cards, digital wallets, or wearable devices at fare gates and bus validators. Riders can pay fare for themselves and up to four additional passengers using one card. Available on Metro and 26 TAP participating transit agencies, the system reduces waiting times, speeds boarding, and improves convenience systemwide. To ensure transfers and fare capping benefits apply correctly, customers must use the same payment method in the same format for each trip.

At the same time, Metro’s new mobile app allows riders to move with confidence using trusted trip information straight from Metro.

The first version of the Official LA Metro app includes:

• Trip planning across Metro bus and rail services with real-time information.
• Integration with regional transit providers for a seamless multimodal experience.
• Service alerts, notifications, and real-time updates.
• Locations for key amenities, including restrooms, customer care centers, TAP vendors, Metro Bike Share stations, and Metro Micro zones.
• Multilingual support and accessibility features such as screen reader compatibility.

Future updates will expand the app’s capabilities to integrate fare payment, Bike Share and Metro Micro booking, parking information and payment, safety tools, and enhanced customer communication features such as live chat and feedback.

“Metro customers shouldn’t have to navigate multiple apps just to ride transit,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “This new app, combined with credit and debit payments at the fare gates and on board buses, is about creating a seamless, intuitive experience, whether you’re a daily rider or visiting Los Angeles for the first time. It also positions us for the future, not only as we prepare to welcome the world for major events including the FIFA World Cup 2026, but also as we continue to serve the millions of people who depend on us every day.”

While credit and debit payments are currently available for full-fare customers, Metro plans to expand the option to reduced-fare riders in early 2027. For those customers who prefer to use cash, they can continue to load funds onto TAP cards and use the system as they do today.

The LA Metro app is free to use, ad-free, and built with universal design standards and will significantly improve access to transit information while supporting a more connected and customer-focused system.

These advancements are part of Metro’s broader capital and technology improvement program aimed at increasing capacity, enhancing accessibility, and delivering a world-class transit experience.

For personalized trip planning by phone, customers can call 323-G0-METRO. For more information about credit and debit payments, fare capping, or where to load cash onto a TAP card, customers can visit taptogo.net or contact TAP Customer Service at 866-TAPTOGO (866.827.8646).

Souvenir cards reflect FIFA, teams, host city Los Angeles  

For Images

With FIFA World Cup 2026™ on the horizon, Metro is tapping into full-on fútbol mania by launching a limited-edition commemorative TAP card collection inspired by the passion, diversity and unmistakable spirit of the world’s most celebrated game.

“Metro wants to make the trips to and from the matches at LA Stadium a special memory for fans” said Fernado Dutra, Metro Board Chair. “These commemorative TAP cards are just one way Metro will delight visitors and regular riders alike.”  

The World Cup TAP card collection features three FIFA themed reflective designs, eight country specific TAP cards representing teams scheduled to play matches in Los Angeles and an additional nine collector cards highlighting countries with large fan bases in Los Angeles. Rounding out the collection is a special light up TAP card, featuring a soaring soccer ball with lights that flash and highlight its blazing trail of energy when tapped on a bus or station validator.  

In addition, a limited-edition collector’s box will also be available, featuring eight country cards and the light-up TAP card. The eight country cards are: Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, New Zealand, Paraguay, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United States and

Mexico.

The fan favorite country TAP cards include Argentina, Brazil, England, Germany, Japan, Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain.

The agency will release more than 800,000 World Cup TAP cards to be produced across all designs. They will be available at select TAP vending machines located at all Metro rail stations and along the G and J Lines, Metro Customer Centers, Fan Zones, Metro station activation events, and online at taptogo.net making purchase easy for fans everywhere. Prices range from $10 for country cards to $20 for FIFA-branded and light up TAP card designs, with the collector’s box priced at $110, while supplies last. Regular TAP cards priced at $2 will remain available throughout the system.

“Metro is proud to play a role on the world stage as we welcome the World Cup to Los Angeles this summer,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “These commemorative TAP cards are more than a way to ride, they’re a celebration of our city’s culture, diversity, and shared love of the game. Metro is helping connect communities, fans, and visitors to this historic moment, and we’re excited to give riders a keepsake they can carry with them long after the final goal!”  

While these commemorative TAP cards are a collector’s item, they can be loaded with fare and used like regular TAP cards for travel on Metro and 26 transit agencies that accept TAP throughout LA County. TAP vending machines selling the World Cup TAP cards will be clearly marked with the design and card cost. Stations with machines selling the collector cards can also be identified by fare gates and card validators wrapped with FIFA World Cup signage.