DC Metro Upgrades Escalators to Boost Station Reliability

Navy Yard Metro entrance closed for escalator repairs during DC United home opener

Navy Yard Metro Entrance Closed for DC United Opener

DC United fans heading to Audi Field for the team's home opener against Philadelphia Union on February 20, 2026, will find one entrance at Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro station closed. Transit officials said the closure's part of ongoing escalator rehabilitation work at the station. The entrance will remain unavailable during the match, though officials haven't said when the repairs will be completed.

Station Work Affects Game Day Access

The escalator rehabilitation project at Navy Yard-Ballpark station is part of Metro's broader infrastructure maintenance efforts, according to the transit agency. Officials said the work is necessary to ensure long-term reliability of station equipment. Specific details about the project timeline and cost weren't available by publication time. Transit agencies typically schedule major station work during periods when they can minimize rider impact, though game days at nearby Audi Field can draw thousands of additional passengers to the station.

Multiple Bus Routes Serve Stadium Area

Several Metro Bus routes continue to provide access to Audi Field despite the station entrance closure, with stops located within a 6-minute walk of the venue. Transit officials said the bus service offers a reliable alternative for fans attending the February 20 match. The agency didn't specify which exact route numbers serve the stadium area or provide frequency details for game day service. Officials said fans should plan their routes in advance to ensure smooth travel to the home opener.

Repairs Continue Through Match Day

The escalator rehabilitation work will be ongoing during the DC United home opener, officials confirmed. The transit agency hasn't provided a completion date for the repairs or said whether additional station entrances might be affected. Officials typically notify riders several weeks before major station closures, though the timeline for when full access will be restored at Navy Yard-Ballpark wasn't available.

Fans Advised to Plan Ahead

Transit officials encouraged fans to allow extra time for their journey to the February 20 match and consider using Metro Bus routes as an alternative to the affected station entrance. The agency said it'll maintain regular service levels for the home opener. Moovit provides real-time updates for Metro rail and bus routes serving Audi Field, helping fans navigate transportation options on game day.