New nighttime Metrobus 'courtesy stops' program aims to boost rider safety

Loading Video…

This browser does not support the Video element.

WMATA CEO: 'I 100% believe the Metro system is safe'

Days after an 18-year-old boy was shot and killed at the Wheaton Metro station, Metro CEO Randy Clarke insists riders are safe and says the crime on public transportation is not unique to the DMV. FOX 5's Tisha Campbell spoke to Clarke about the recent shooting, and more.

Metrobus riders can now request drivers to stop in between stops from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., in a new program by WMATA to increase rider safety. 

"The safety of every customer is important to us and for those traveling alone at night, having the option of a courtesy stop will provide an additional sense of security," said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. 

The new "courtesy stops" program applies to all buses except for limited and express bus routes, and the driver will only make the courtesy stop if it is safe to do so.

Additionally, the rider must exit out of the front doors of the bus.

This program is modeled after similar programs already in place in other cities across the country including Los Angeles, New York City, Philadelphia and Austin, Texas.


 

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit AuthorityNewsTransportation