Metro Upgrades Judiciary Square Station Access

Metro builds new stairway and canopy at Judiciary Square north entrance through 2026

Metro Adds Stairway, Canopy at Judiciary Square

Metro's building a new stairway and canopy at Judiciary Square Station's north entrance at F Street between 4th and 5th Streets NW. The project started in January 2023 and is part of the agency's larger Canopy Installation Project, which'll install nine new canopies and three new stairways at various station entrances across the system. The new stairway's scheduled to open in fall 2026, with canopy construction beginning after that.

System-Wide Infrastructure Investment

The Judiciary Square work represents one component of Metro's broader infrastructure maintenance strategy. The Canopy Installation Project addresses aging station entrances across the system, providing weather protection and improved access for riders. Metro officials said the initiative demonstrates the agency's commitment to maintaining its system in a state of good repair. Transit agencies typically prioritize entrance improvements at stations with high foot traffic or where existing infrastructure has deteriorated beyond routine maintenance capabilities.

Construction Details and Timeline

The station entrance will remain open to passengers throughout construction, Metro confirmed. Escalators at the station will continue operating while the new stairway and canopy are being installed. The new stairway's scheduled to open in fall 2026, according to Metro. Canopy construction will begin after the stairway opens, also in fall 2026. Officials haven't specified how long canopy installation will take or when the complete project will be finished.

Minimal Service Disruption Expected

Metro designed the work to minimize disruption to daily commuters while improving station infrastructure. The phased approach—completing the stairway before starting canopy work—allows the agency to maintain access throughout the multi-year project. Passengers can stay informed about construction progress through MetroAlerts and the MetroPulse mobile app, Metro said.

What Riders Need to Know

Judiciary Square riders should expect construction activity at the north entrance through fall 2026 and beyond, though the entrance will remain accessible. The improvements will eventually provide better weather protection and an additional stairway option for passengers entering and exiting the station. Moovit provides real-time updates for Metro service and can help riders navigate station access changes during construction.