Closures Are Coming To Metro's Red Line

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Train operations are coming to a halt at several of Metro's Red Line stations this summer.

For two months, trains will not operate between the North Bethesda and Friendship Heights stations as Metro undertakes a "major construction" project.

From July 6 to Sept. 7, free shuttle service will be implemented to the Grosvenor-Strathmore, Medical Center, and Bethesda stations.

Metro said the bus service will offer both express and local shuttles that will depart every few minutes.

The express option will transport commuters directly from North Bethesda station to Friendship Heights, whereas the local will make stops at all impacted stops.

However, the public transportation provider estimates travel times for the express bus will be 26 minutes, while the local shuttle will run a 48-minute commute.

A ride between the North Bethesda and Friendship Heights stations currently takes about 10 minutes, according to Metro.

Pick-up and drop-off locations will be released by Metro at a later date.

Adding on to the service changes, Metro says Red Line trains will run every six minutes from Shady Grove to North Bethesda stations, as well as between Friendship Heights and Glenmont stations.

What Will The Construction Include?

The construction project includes the creation of a second mezzanine at the Bethesda Metro stop that will link the station to the future Purple Line.

Metro's project will also see officials replace the railway above Rockville Pike that connects Medical Center and Grosvenor-Strathmore stations.

Additional upgrades to lighting and drainage will also be carried out at the Grosvenor-Strathmore Station.