Sequester could add to Metro’s list of problems

WASHINGTON – Metro could also be affected by the sequester as fewer riders might result in a worse metro ride. Federal employees make up 40 percent of Metro’s ridership and the mass transit agency is making a case that it will also feel the pinch of looming budget talks.

Currently, Metro brings in $2 million daily but officials say that number could decrease if federal workers are furloughed.

Metro leaders tell The Washington Post that there is a possibility it could lose about $12 million in funding which has been allocated for buying new rail cars and maintaining the current system over the next decade.

And if the governments of Maryland, Virginia and the District also face budget cuts, this could also make a significant dent in contributions to the system.

WTOP’s John Aaron contributed to this report from Annapolis, Md. Follow JohnAaronWTOP and @WTOP on Twitter.

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