DC/MD/VA: WMATA to reopen Shady Grove and Rockville stations in January 2022

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) will reopen its Shady Grove and Rockville stations on Jan. 16, 2022, after a four-month shutdown for the Rockville Canopy Replacement Project. During the closures, WMATA demolished the canopy at Rockville Station, erected a new steel canopy structure and completed customer improvements– including installation of new information screens, brighter lighting and modern faregates.

In addition, WMATA teams are using the shutdown to perform track repairs that will improve service reliability and install more than 7.3 miles of fiber optic cable to enhance radio communications. Without the station closures, these upgrades alone would have required nine months of weekend shutdowns and overnight work.

The final stage of the canopy project – installing glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) panels on the canopy’s steel structure – will not be complete when the stations reopen. In January, the canopy will provide cover for customers but will remain temporarily unfinished until WMATA determines the best type of exterior cladding needed to complete the project.

“Shady Grove and Rockville stations will be ready to welcome back Red Line customers for rail service on Jan. 16,” said WMATA General Manager/CEO Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Our project team continues working to ensure the completed canopy meets Metro’s quality standard and provides customers with a safe and comfortable place to wait for the train.” .........(more)

https://www.masstransitmag.com/technology/facilities/press-release/21249348/wmatawashington-metropolitan-area-transit-authority-wmata-to-reopen-shady-grove-and-rockville-stations-in-january-2022