Metro Restores New Carrollton After Rail Repair

Broken third rail near New Carrollton station forces single-track operations, delays

Metro Delays Hit New Carrollton Line

Metro riders face major delays today as crews repair a broken third rail near New Carrollton station, transit officials said. The repairs started March 11 and are expected to take several hours, causing significant disruptions for passengers traveling through the DC-Maryland-Virginia area. Officials classified the situation as high severity, though specific details about how many riders are affected weren't immediately available.

Single-Track Operations Replace Shuttle Service

Metro initially deployed shuttle buses to bypass the affected area but suspended that service in favor of single-tracking operations, according to the transit agency. Trains now share one track in both directions through the repair zone, which typically increases wait times and platform crowding during peak periods. The third rail provides electrical power to trains and is critical for system operations, officials said. Repairs can't be rushed because safety protocols require thorough inspection and testing before normal service resumes.

Repair Timeline and Service Impact

The repair work began early March 11, but officials haven't provided a specific completion time beyond saying it'll take several hours. Transit agencies typically need extended time for third rail repairs because the high-voltage system requires complete power shutdowns, physical repairs, and safety testing before energizing the rail again. Officials didn't say what caused the third rail failure or whether similar issues have affected other parts of the system recently. The agency said it's monitoring the situation and will restore normal service as soon as repairs are complete and safety checks are finished.

Service Adjustments Continue

Metro continues operating trains through single-tracking rather than reverting to shuttle buses, officials said. The decision suggests crews are making progress but haven't completed repairs enough to restore two-track operations. Officials didn't specify whether the single-tracking will continue into evening rush hour or how long the modified service pattern might last. The agency said it's providing updates through its official channels as the repair work progresses.

Riders Advised to Expect Delays

Passengers traveling through New Carrollton should plan for extra travel time and expect longer waits between trains, officials said. The single-tracking operations will continue until repairs are complete and normal two-track service can safely resume. Moovit provides real-time updates for Metro routes, helping riders track delays and plan alternative travel times during the disruption.