D.C. Area To Experiment With Congestion Pricing On Subways

In an effort to reduce crowding on D.C.-area subways, Metro is considering increasing rates at peak times and a 35-cent rush-hour surcharge for those who travel through 19 heavily-used downtown stations.

1 minute read

December 26, 2006, 1:00 PM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen

"In their budget proposal this month, Metro managers signed on to the concept, introducing a congestion pricing plan for the subway as a way to close a budget shortfall and reduce crowding during the morning and evening rushes, especially at high-volume stations. A decision by Metro's board could be months away.

It comes as transportation leaders in Virginia and Maryland are quickly moving to build a network of express toll lanes -- roads on which fees increase according to traffic levels -- along the region's major commuter routes.

Supporters of congestion pricing say it would push more traffic and transit trips to "shoulder" times, freeing capacity during rush hours and improving commutes where in recent years they've only grown worse."

FULL STORY: D.C. Area's Effort Against Crowded Roads a Test Case

Monday, December 25, 2006 in The Washington Post

Transportation District of Columbia

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