John Matthews
WMAL.com
WASHINGTON — (WMAL) A derailed train is causing major problems downtown for Metrorail Thursday morning, and passengers are being warned to find ways to get around.
The train, which was not carrying any passengers at the time, derailed near the Smithsonian station, forcing Metro to suspend all service between Federal Center Southwest and McPherson Square. In addition, the Smithsonian and Federal Triangle stations are closed.
Metro is warning Blue, Orange and Silver Line riders to take alternate routes if possible and to expect crowded train platforms, as well as lengthy delays.
The transit agency issued a press release Thursday morning offering more details:
Rail service on the Blue and Orange lines has been suspended between Federal Center SW and McPherson Square stations.
Smithsonian and Federal Triangle stations are closed.
Lower level platforms at Metro Center and L’Enfant Plaza stations are closed.
Silver Line trains will operate between Wiehle-Reston East and East Falls Church only to reduce congestion downtown. Silver Line riders should transfer to Orange Line trains to continue their trip.
Riders will experience significant delays on the Blue/Orange/Silver lines and should consider alternate travel options this morning.
Yellow Line may provide an alternate for riders traveling from Virginia to Downtown DC
Boarding locations for shuttle buses
Federal Center – 3rd St & D St SW
L’Enfant Plaza – 7th St & D St SW
Smithsonian – 12th & Independence Ave SW
Federal Triangle – 12th & Pennsylvania Ave NW
Metro Center – 11th & G St NW
McPherson Square – 14th & I St NW
All regular-route Metrobus service in Downtown DC will allow affected rail passengers to ride free to their detinations.
Metro personnel are working to restore normal service as quickly and safely as possible. However, at this time there is no estimate on when normal service will be restored.
The cause of the incident is under investigation.
The Red line also experienced problems Thursday morning. A disabled train at the Bethesda station forced single-tracking between the Medical Center and Friendship Heights stations, but normal service was restored by 7:20am, with residual backups reported.
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