WASHINGTON – Metro will now close at midnight on the Fourth of July rather than 11:30 p.m.
Metro announced the change Tuesday afternoon, one day after posting service information that confirmed the system would stick to the public transit system’s new weekday hours and close at 11:30 p.m. on Independence Day.
Metro previously said that service could be extended the night of the holiday festivities if crowds warranted. A Metro spokesman had also told WTOP earlier this month that the system was expected to close at 11:30 p.m. on July 4.
In Tuesday’s message, Metro did not provide any explanation for the change in plans.
After 9 p.m. on July 4, the National Mall entrance to the Smithsonian Metro Station will become entrance only. Metro recommends using other stations near the National Mall if possible and avoiding transfers between lines as crowds pack in before and after the fireworks.
Because it is a federal holiday, parking will be free on July 4 at all Metro garages and riders will pay off-peak fares all day. Due to the crowds, bikes and large coolers will not be allowed on trains.
