Amid the war in Iran, gas prices are up. If you’re filling up in D.C., expect to pay an average of $3.96 per gallon. It’s lower in Maryland, at $3.82, and even lower in Virginia, at $3.73.
Rising gas prices – as well as a drop in crime – have Metro preparing for more people to potentially choose to ride Metro or take the bus instead of driving.
“It’s too high. I was riding Metro already but I’m definitely not going to switch to driving anytime soon, with gas prices the way they are,” one commuter told News4.
“I’m on a limited budget. I’m taking out loans for school. It just really does not make sense for me to be driving,” another commuter said.
Metro General Manager Randy Clarke said the system welcomes additional riders.
“Gas prices are clearly up. There’s no question about that. But I would say it this way – no matter what gas prices are, Metro is always going to be cheaper than driving a car,” he said.
Transit agency statistics show crimes such as robberies and assaults are down 67%, comparing the first three months of the year to the same point in 2023.
“Safety is always the thing that will be the first factor in people riding the system,” Clarke said.
News4 asked Metro’s police chief why he believes his department has been able to drive down crime. Effective prosecution is one factor, he said.
“Look, particularly these chronic offenders. So, if you bring them good cases to prosecute and then the criminal justice system will hopefully give them the time that’s required by the law,” Chief Michael Anzallo said.
He said he wants to see reductions in auto thefts from Metro parking lots.
As for the commute, expect your train or bus to get more crowded. Metro has some major events coming up, including the cherry blossoms’ full bloom, the Nationals’ home opener and the NCAA tournament. Those all will draw crowds to the system.
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