Officials representing the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) Board of Directors and the Metro Board of Directors today announced they would convene the two bodies to launch a new joint initiative to develop a unified vision for transit service in the region.
The meeting will be held on May 1 and will continue months-long discussions about how to efficiently provide, fund, and govern public transit, which is central to the region’s transportation, economic, and sustainability goals.
The planned partnership builds on recent coordination related to Metro’s FY 2025 financial challenges. It also provides an opportunity for the region to act with urgency to fully address complex, long-term transit needs.
“World-class regions are built on world-class transit, and it’s up to us, as leaders, to advance this vision,” said COG Board Chair Charles Allen. “WMATA’s financial challenges remain, but our region worked together to solve the next year or two while we focus on the region’s long term transit needs. But that crisis creates an opportunity in this moment, and it’s one I’m confident we can meet. We look forward to creating a comprehensive and inclusive effort that will bring together area governments and agencies and all the key stakeholders from the business, labor, and civic sectors.”
“The WMATA Board of Directors welcomes this collaborative approach to solve long-standing issues that severely impact our future,” said Metro Board Chair Paul C. Smedberg. “Both WMATA and COG have a responsibility to lead regional transportation planning, and this joint initiative begins to fulfill that role. I look forward to working with our regional leaders in the coming months.”
Leaders from both boards agree this collective effort is needed to unlock the full potential of the region’s transit network, which is made up of more than a dozen rail and bus providers–including Metro. Officials note that these providers offer varying service levels, different technologies and fare policies, as well as an array of funding and governing models that do not always work together for the benefit of our residents and visitors.
“This joint initiative is an important step towards a collaborative approach to regional problem solving,” said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “Our leaders have already made good-faith efforts to address some of Metro’s ongoing financial challenges. I am confident this important work will allow us to look at the region holistically and move towards solutions that benefit us all.”
“Our public transit network is our region’s most significant, shared asset,” said COG Executive Director Clark Mercer. “I could not be more pleased our leadership is seizing this valuable opportunity to collaborate and ensure the region’s public transit is positioned for long-term success.”
Metro Board Chair Smedberg accepted COG Board Chair Allen’s invitation to create this joint initiative in response to a letter that was sent by Allen on April 1. During a short presentation during the COG Board of Directors April meeting, both COG and Metro staff pledged to advance this effort by collaborating with regional leaders, who will be announced in the coming weeks along with additional details.
Courtesy WMATA
Recent Stories
Montgomery County Police responded to the report of shots fired on Wednesday, May 8 in Montgomery Village.
Dr. Charles R. Drew Elementary School, Cabin John Middle School, and Albert Einstein and James Hubert Blake high schools have been named 2024 Maryland Green Schools, bringing the MCPS total…
The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration will hold a virtual Purple Line Community Advisory Team (CAT) meeting for the Bethesda-Chevy Chase community on Tuesday, May 14 from 6-7:30pm.
The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Montgomery County Division and Montgomery Parks are seeking the public’s help regarding a fire that destroyed the Greenbriar Local Park main playground, located at 12525…
FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.
Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.
This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
