Metro Seeks More Equitable Service for Region with Update to Title VI Civil Rights Program

Per WMATA: As part of Metro’s commitment to non-discrimination in providing transit services, we are revising our Title VI Program to better reflect and support our customers and the region. The proposed updates will help Metro provide better service, provide service adjustments more quickly, expand service, and increase the level of household income to qualify as low-income.

We want your feedback on the proposed changes to the Title VI Program. Take a survey here. Metro updates its Title VI Program every three years as required by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). This includes definitions and other ways we collect data, to ensure all customers are being served, regardless of their background.

Title VI of the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects customers from discrimination based on race, color, and national origin. Metro is committed to non-discrimination and to being inclusive and equitable, especially with customers who are low-income, limited English proficient, and represent historically disadvantaged groups.

Metro’s proposed changes include redefining a “major service change,” defining populations based on U.S. Census data with its Better Bus Network Redesign effort and raising the income threshold for low-income customers to account for the recent rise in the cost of living. Metro is also proposing to eliminate the $2 SmarTrip card fee for customers enrolled in reduced fare programs.

To read more details about Metro’s proposed changes and to give feedback visit Metro’s Title VI Program page on wmata.com. The deadline to provide comment is 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 15, 2023.