Metro Transit routes returning to normal after morning snow

Transit staff will monitor overnight weather conditions

All Metro buses were back to their normal routes as of 10 a.m. today, although some routes are still experiencing delays due to traffic congestion and because chained buses must keep speeds below 35 mph. Crews are currently out in the field removing chains from those buses, and Metro staff anticipate a normal commute for Thursday afternoon.

Despite the clearing skies, Metro staff is continuing to monitor the weather and travel conditions in case roads become icy overnight. If there is ice on the roads – particularly the side streets – on Thursday night or Friday morning, buses could be delayed again during those times.

Bus riders should keep an eye on local travel conditions as well. If the roads are icy in your neighborhood or where you want to travel, expect delays and possible reroutes away from hills and iced-over roads. Here are some transit travel tips for snowy and icy weather:

• Head for bus stops on main arterials or at major transfer points such as park-and-ride lots, transit centers, or shopping centers;

• Riders should wait at bus stops at the very top or very bottom of hills, because buses are often unable to stop for passengers on inclines;

• Dress warmly for the walk to the bus stop, expect delays, and wear appropriate footwear for the weather;

• Be patient. Buses are not always on schedule in snowy or icy conditions. That is why it is hard to post real-time bus information on the Metro website. And, increased ridership during bad weather can result in crowded buses and a longer-than-usual wait on the phone for the Customer Information Office at (206) 553-3000.

As the winter season winds to a close, Metro is already looking to next season by pursuing additional steps that can be taken to keep riders better informed of transit disruptions. Those actions include: redesigning elements of the Metro Online website; beefing up emergency event staffing plans for the Customer Information Office; adding additional staff to track and post bus reroute and service disruptions online; and exploring the use of emerging public communication tools to help disseminate information.