New Flyer XN40 2992

Location: Hayes Street at 18th Street, Crystal City, VA
Operator of Vehicle: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Date of Photo: March 24, 2019

In just a few weeks, there will be a second BRT system operating in the DC area.  On October 14, Montgomery County will launch FLASH on US 29 in Maryland, connecting Silver Spring, White Oak, and Burtonsville.  So while Metroway, a bus rapid transit line connecting Crystal City to Alexandria in Virginia will no longer be the only BRT route in the DC area, it can always claim to be the first.  

Metroway launched on August 24, 2014.  The route stops at designated stations with level boarding, distinct canopy designs, and real time countdown clocks.  However, fare payment is still made on board the buses.  While Metroway buses use dedicated roadways for a portion of the route, there are other segments where they operate in mixed traffic.  The route originally launched with NABI 42 BRT buses, but since December 18, 2016, New Flyer XN40 buses such as this one have served the route.

FLASH will be operated by Ride On and will feature things that Metroway lacks, such as off vehicle payments and bike racks inside the buses rather than on the front.  So not only will the DC area be getting a second BRT service, it will also be introduced to some additional BRT features that are not present in the area just yet.  

For more photos of WMATA’s New Flyer XN40 Buses, please click here.