Play a role in Metro’s evolution in customer-focused service as part of the Riders’ Advisory Council
Application deadline: Monday, November 27, 2023
As Metro service evolves to meet service and financial challenges and opportunities, its Riders' Advisory Council (RAC) will have an important role in advocating for riders. The Metro Board of Directors is seeking applicants to serve on its Riders' Advisory Council (RAC) to provide input on service, fares and other initiatives and assisting Metro's Board of Directors in its decision-making.
Over the past year, Metro's RAC has helped the Board navigate major decisions that will impact the system for decades to come. Members were part of a tour in New York City to evaluate open gangway design in the new 8000-series railcars and have also participated in ongoing engagement with Metro’s Better Bus Initiative, including the bus network redesign. The RAC’s input has helped the Board as it focuses on making Metro better.
Riders across the region are encouraged to apply to fill four vacancies on the 11-member advisory council.
In the coming year, RAC members will be an important part of the discussion as Metro faces a looming $750 million budget shortfall in FY25, without a long-term solution to Metro's structural funding issues. In the FY24 budget approved by the Board this year, the RAC shared input on fare and service changes that added more bus and rail service, while creating a reduced-fare program for low-income customers.
"Recognizing the change in travel over the past few years, Metro has implemented several customer-friendly policies, including more frequent, all-day service, simplified fares and enhanced customer service," said Metro Board Chair Paul C. Smedberg. "We know that Metro faces challenges in the year ahead, and having the RAC's rider-focused input will help us in meeting those challenges."
Formed in 2005, the RAC advises the Board on Metro service and policies and includes a mix of riders that may use Metrorail, Metrobus or MetroAccess from across the region. Members must live within the Metro service area.
RAC members serve on a voluntary basis and meet monthly. Open positions include an at-large member, and representatives from DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Metro’s Board is seeking a diverse group of candidates that exemplify a range of Metro riders who commute, take essential trips, or travel off-peak and weekends.
In addition to advising the Board, RAC members are expected to connect with neighborhood groups, local businesses, and other organizations to gather feedback. This allows the RAC to consider the experience of other riders, in addition to personal experience, and to identify broader trends in making recommendations.
Riders may submit their applications online; or to get an application in an accessible format, call 202-962-2511 (TTY 202-962-2033). The deadline to apply is 9 a.m., Monday, November 27th. All applications will be reviewed, and final candidates will be asked to interview with Board member(s) and/or staff. Members will be appointed by the Board at the December 14th meeting.
Due to the limited number of vacancies, not every applicant can be accepted. Anyone who is not selected is still welcome to attend and participate in meetings which are open to the public. Applications will be kept on file for one year and reviewed when eligible vacancies arise. Additional information about the RAC is available at wmata.com/RAC.