DC Metro Red Line Resumes After Brake Fix
Metro Red Line resumes service after brake issue at Rockville caused single-tracking delays
Metro Red Line Resumes Normal Service After Brake Issue
Metro's Red Line returned to normal operations Thursday after a train with brake problems at Rockville station caused delays throughout the system. Trains are no longer single-tracking between stations, though riders should still expect residual delays in both directions, transit officials said. The incident affected one of Metro's busiest lines, which spans 31.6 miles and serves 27 stations across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
Single-tracking is a standard operational response when trains can't move or when track access is needed for maintenance or incident response. The procedure allows trains to share one track while the affected track is cleared, but it reduces capacity and causes delays that can persist even after normal operations resume. Metro didn't specify how long single-tracking was in effect or how many riders were affected by the disruption.
The brake problem occurred earlier on November 28, though officials didn't provide a specific time for when the issue began or when it was resolved. Metro didn't release details about the nature of the brake problem or which train car was involved. The agency also didn't say whether the train was removed from service or repaired on-site. Officials confirmed that normal track operations have resumed, but specific details about the incident response weren't available by publication time.
Metro has been working on fleet modernization and maintenance improvements following years of safety concerns, including the 2021-2022 removal of 7000-series railcars due to wheel assembly issues. The Washington Metrorail Safety Commission oversees Metro's safety compliance, and mechanical failures like brake problems fall under its jurisdiction. Officials didn't say whether this incident will require additional safety review or reporting.
Riders should continue to allow extra travel time until service fully stabilizes throughout the Red Line corridor. Metro typically communicates service disruptions through social media and its official channels, though the agency didn't provide a timeline for when delays are expected to clear completely. Moovit provides real-time updates for Metro Red Line service, helping riders plan around disruptions and find alternative routes when needed.
