Metro Adds Weather Protection at Tenleytown Station

Metro installs weather-protective canopy at Tenleytown-AU East entrance by 2026

2026-04-20, Moovit News Team

Metro Adds Canopy at Tenleytown-AU Station

Metro riders using the Tenleytown-AU East Station Entrance will see construction crews installing a new protective canopy starting May 4, transit officials said. The Phase 4 project will add weather protection above the station's escalators, part of Metro's broader effort to install nine canopies across the system by 2026. The entrance and escalators will remain open throughout construction.
Metro station entrance with escalators leading underground, construction equipment visible, workers in safety vests preparing canopy installation materials at Tenleytown-AU station in Washington DC

Weather Protection Initiative

The canopy installation is designed to shield riders and escalator equipment from rain, snow, and other weather conditions that can damage mechanical systems. Metro's investing in these protective structures to extend the life and reliability of escalators, which are critical for station access. The agency's replacing or adding canopies at nine locations systemwide as part of its infrastructure improvement program. Transit officials said the weather protection helps reduce maintenance costs and equipment failures caused by exposure to the elements.

Construction Details

All construction work will take place during non-revenue hours when trains aren't running, Metro confirmed. The Phase 4 installation at Tenleytown-AU represents one of the final canopy projects in the agency's 2026 initiative. Officials didn't specify an expected completion date for the Tenleytown-AU canopy work. The project involves installing structural supports and the canopy covering above the existing escalator bank at the east entrance.

No Service Disruptions Expected

The station entrance will remain fully operational throughout the construction period, with escalators continuing normal service, transit officials said. By scheduling work during overnight hours when the system's closed, Metro's avoiding any impact on daily commuters and riders. The agency said customers won't experience access restrictions or detours at the Tenleytown-AU East entrance during the canopy installation.
Wide view of Metro escalator system at station entrance with overhead canopy structure, showing protective covering shielding escalators from weather, daytime with clear access for riders

Rider Information

Metro riders can track construction progress through the agency's Escalators, Elevators, and Canopy Projects page, officials said. The transit system offers free MetroAlerts via text and email for customized service updates, and the MetroPulse mobile app provides real-time information with live chat support. Riders can also contact Customer Care at 202-GO-METRO (202-466-3876) Monday through Friday from 7am to 8pm and weekends from 8am to 8pm. Moovit provides real-time Metro updates and trip planning for Washington-area transit riders.