Two Orange Line stations to reopen Monday following completion of rail and technology improvements

On Monday, July 17, two Orange Line stations will reopen following the completion of rail replacement and fiber-optics installation between Vienna and Dunn Loring stations.

In total, Metro’s hardworking team installed nearly 25 miles of new rail during this phase of construction, replacing some of the oldest rail in the system to improve safety and reliability. This work also included 415 new welds to connect the rails together to ensure a smooth ride, and the removal of more than 97,000 linear feet of vegetation from around the stations which keeps the area clear of overgrown plants and brush that could cause an obstruction during a storm.

“Replacing this section of rail was critical to ensuring the Orange Line is safe and reliable for years to come,” said Metro Chief of Infrastructure Andy Off. “We appreciate our customers’ patience while we completed this important work to improve our system.”

In June, Metro closed four Orange Line stations in Virginia while construction teams worked day and night to replace the original 40-year-old steel rail between Ballston-MU and Vienna. West Falls Church and East Falls Church stations reopened to customers earlier this month. Summer construction will now move to the Green Line beginning July 22, when Metro will install fiber-optic cable, replace platform edge lighting, and replace power cables and switch machines. Upgrading the switch machines and installation of the new cables will ensure reliable service for years to come.

Green Line stations between Fort Totten and Greenbelt will be closed from Saturday, July 22, to Monday, September 4. Green Line service at Fort Totten will be unavailable July 22 and July 23. Red Line service will remain available at Ft. Totten. Frequent free shuttle buses will replace trains between the affected stations. Customers are advised to allow extra time for their travel. In addition to prominent signage and announcements in the stations and on trains, additional Metro staff will be available to assist customers at the affected stations. Click here for full travel alternatives.

For more details about Metro’s summer construction projects, visit wmata.com/2023majorconstruction.