As it works to restore rider confidence and improve service, the Washington region’s subway system is ending its rush-hour ban on carrying bikes aboard trains and eliminating a $2 Saturday parking fee.
Beginning Monday, standard-size bikes will be allowed at all hours, including the busiest periods, provided there is space on rail cars.
When the subway system opened in the 1970s, bikes were prohibited and later allowed by permit. Metro gradually phased out the permits and expanded hours when bikes could be loaded on cars.
“We believe this change supports ridership growth by Metro and a commuting option for those who want to have a bike with them.” Metro Chief Operating Officer Joe Leader said in a statement.
The Metro system is trying to encourage more riders to get to stations by bike and for years has had outdoor free bike racks and rental enclosed lockers. Most public buses have bike racks.
In a posting on its website, the Washington Area Bicyclists Association applauded the change and said its surveys of riders found overwhelming support for the change.
“This is the culmination of decades of work by WABA members and advocates throughout the region,” the group said. “This policy change represents an opportunity for people and places to be more connected.”
Fewer than 1 in 100 subway riders take bikes and the board of the regional transit authority wants to increase participation to 2 percent by next year.
Metro announced Friday that a pilot program started in February to charge for parking at its lots would end and parking would be free on most weekends.
The change came “in response to customer feedback,” Metro said.
The fee will end this weekend. Metro said they may charge for parking on Saturdays at future “designated regional or special events.”
The transit system, which has faced complaints of declining service, this week also touted fewer crimes in the system and expansion of work to bring brighter lights to some of its underground stations.
