Sequestration to Impact Metro's Station Improvement, Fare System Projects

Sequestration will impact Metro’s long-term projects, likely delaying bus purchases, station improvements and possibly deferring the agency’s plan to replace its fare-card system with one allowing credit cards, according to a report from The Washington Post.

The agency will receive $8 million less in federal funds as a result of the mandatory federal cuts. Metro had expected to lose as much as $12 million. It receives $150 million annually from the federal government, a number that is matched by local participating jurisdictions. 

• See:

Metro is currently accepting bids from tech firms to develop a new system that would allow customers tap their credit card or mobile phone to pay fares, according to WAMU.

Sequestration could also possibly affect Metro’s revenue if federal workers are furloughed. Officials with the transit company estimated the loss could be as much as $10 million, according to the Post.

Metro is also considering closing mezzanine-level entrances at some stations on weekends. Higher fares and weekend track work has resulted in decreased rail ridership for the agency.

• Interested in getting Del Ray Patch directly into your inbox each morning? Learn more about our daily newsletter.