Metro seeks changes, public input to allow development on Blue Line Corridor at Capitol Heights Station

Metro’s Capitol Heights station has the opportunity to become a major gateway between the District of Columbia and Maryland and to support Prince George’s County’s initiative to catalyze transit-oriented development along the Blue Line Corridor. The proposed changes at Capitol Heights Station to Metro’s Kiss & Ride, Park & Ride, and bus facilities will enable a mix of housing and retail development on Metro property. Metro is asking the public to provide input on these proposed changes to the station’s transit facilities.

Under the proposal, Metro would relocate the bus loop and Kiss & Ride lot, reduce the existing 15 Kiss & Ride spaces to eight spaces, and eliminate the 372-space Park & Ride lot. The proposed facility changes would enable Metro to seek a joint development partner to coordinate construction of public transit facilities with private development on transit-owned property.

These proposed changes are intended to advance Metro’s joint development program and Strategic Transformation Plan goals, which include growing ridership, generating new fare and tax revenues that support Metro and local jurisdictions, and fostering sustainable, local, and regional growth. The modifications will also provide safer access to the station for bus operations, pedestrians, and bicyclists.

Metro is asking the public to provide input on these proposed changes to the station’s transit facilities.

The public is encouraged to comment no later than 9 a.m., Monday, Nov. 20, online or during our public hearing:

• Submit your comments online and/or upload documents by visiting wmata.com/plansandprojects by 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 20, 2023.
• Participate in the Open House and Public Hearing:
• In-person: Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023
  Open House begins at 6:30 p.m. and Public Hearing begins at 7:00 p.m.
  Capitol Heights Elementary School
  601 Suffolk Ave, Capitol Heights, MD 20743
  
  Shuttle Service will be provided between Capitol Heights Metro Station and the school for customers that need assistance. The school is located approximately a 10-minute walk from the Capitol Heights Station.
  
  
• By phone: Dial 206-899-2028 and enter meeting code 231 232 090#.
• By video: Email speak@wmata.com by 5 p.m. the day before the hearing to register.
• Watch or listen to the public hearing, live at YouTube.com/MetroForward, or listen by calling the phone number above and entering the meeting code. Testimony is not required to attend or listen. Video of the hearings will also be archived at YouTube.com/MetroForward.

All public comments will be provided to Metro's Board of Directors for final review and inclusion into Metro's Mass Transit Plan.

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, gender, religion, disability, or family status. ASL interpretation will be provided. To request other accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, or other language interpretation services (free of charge), contact the Office of the Board Secretary at 202-962-2511 (TTY: 202-962-2033) or send a message to speak@wmata.com as soon as possible, so Metro can make the necessary arrangements before the public hearing date.