Metro to make hard decision on new floors

WASHINGTON - Like a homeowner trying to pick out new hardwood floors, Metro's top brass is deciding what the new flooring in railcars should look and feel like.

Four different flooring options were rolled out Tuesday. Metro's General Manager John Catoe preferred one option that included a black, rubber surface with gray and white flecks.

"I like it for several reasons," said Catoe with a grin. "I think it is a nice contrast from an appearance standpoint. Also, because it is rubber, and it is thicker, it will last longer and absorb the sound."

The other flooring options are all a grayish color. Two are a flexible rubber flooring and the third is a harder quartz material.

While all of the flooring options look like they would be slippery, especially when wet, Metro officials say that is not the case. In some instances, the transit agency says the initial adhesive will actually wear off, giving floors even more grip.

However, the biggest selling point for the new flooring is not appearance, it's cost.

Right now it costs $5,200 to replace the carpet in older rail cars. The maintenance costs are also expensive. Riders also complain about the musty smell of older carpet, which can become worn down and dirty.

Many of those problems go away with the new flooring options Metro is considering.

"The intent of doing this is to improve the experience our customers have," said Catoe. "I don't think it is a great experience to get on a rail car and you have this filthy carpet. That's not a good experience."

The cost of putting in the new flooring would be about $250 more than what it costs for carpet, but the new flooring is much easier and cheaper to clean.

It also has to be replaced about once every 20 years, instead of once every five or six years like carpet.

"It brings a new look. And new looks are something that are a good experience for most people."

** This story contains video from WTOP's Adam Tuss. Please click the play button below to watch.

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