WASHINGTON (WMAL) – Metro will need all the blessings it can get as masses of people put their faith in the suspect transit system to get them around to papal events, an Ed Sheeran concert, and a Nats game all at once.
“We know it’s going to be a busy day, the question is how busy,” said Metro spokesman Dan Stessel. Metro has indicated it plans to run rush-hour levels of service the entire day, though it will not be running problem-free as speed restrictions continue through the Stadium-Armory area following a power generator fire earlier this week.
25,000 tickets have been given out for Pope Francis’ mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. The closest Metro station will be bursting at the seams.
“Brookland station will be very, very busy. It’s the smallest Red Line station, and has a limited capacity,” Stessel said. He indicated they plan on only allowing passengers to exit the station prior to the mass and making it entrance-only following the event to increase capacity.
And just like during the 4th of July or inaugurations, no large items, bicycles or large coolers will be allowed on the system.
“The best advice is to make sure that everyone in your group has a SmartTrip card in advance, and that it’s loaded with enough value for wherever you’re going to travel during the papal visit,” Stessel said.
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