More headaches this weekend for Metro riders

WASHINGTON – Expect more headaches using public transportation this weekend.

Metro says it is in the midst of the biggest rebuilding effort in its history. General Manager Richard Sarles says this effort is going to be here for a long time.

“(It’s) just as intense as we’ve seen because we have a lot more work to do,” says Sarles.

Riders notice the changes and delays and this weekend will be no different.

There’s single tracking scheduled on every line except the Yellow.

Subway riders are advised to add at least 15 minutes to every trip.

The work is part of a $5 billion capital improvement program that includes the following, according to Metro:

  • Replace escalators;
  • Retrofit track;
  • Replace critical track circuitry and equipment along the right of way;
  • Rehabilitate third-rail power systems, running rail and track pads;
  • Modernize 12 stations;
  • Replace 100 Metrobuses and the rehabilitate 100 more;
  • Renovate three bus garages;
  • Install 30 new track turnouts.

WTOP’s Adam Tuss contributed to this report. Follow Adam and WTOP on Twitter.

(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

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