How to get around Wednesday while Metro shuts down

The entire D.C. Metrorail system will shut down tonight at midnight, and it will stay closed for 24 hours as safety checks are conducted, the transit system announced Tuesday afternoon.

This action will leave many riders wondering how they should get around on Wednesday.

News of the planned system-wide shutdown comes one day after an early-morning cable fire in a tunnel near the McPherson Square station caused major service disruptions on the Blue, Orange and Silver Lines on Monday. Metro said the fire caused damage to the rail bed, and though the scene was cleared at around 6 a.m., it caused delays through the morning rush.

In case you are one of the many who rely on Metrorail to get to work, we've compiled a list of alternative ways to get around:

Despite the announcement of the shutdown, federal agencies will remain open. However, employees will have the option for unscheduled leave or unscheduled telework.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority has also confirmed that parking will be free on Wednesday, 3/16 in all Metro-owned lots and garages for customers taking bus or carpooling.