Washington Metro to provide downloadable data

Beginning March 23, anyone can download technological data about Metrorail and Metrobus routes, stops and schedules on Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority's (Metro) Website.

The raw data is available in a coded format that can be used by anyone who wants to turn the information into a usable computer application, including businesses and Webmasters.

Users of the information must agree to Metro’s use of terms before they can download the information, which includes exempting the transit agency from liability. The user also is responsible for keeping the information up-to-date and accurate. Users can sign up for RSS feeds to be notified when the raw data has changed.

For now, users can download the information at no cost. As part of Metro efforts to generate new revenue, the transit authority is taking a look at intellectual property, such as schedule data to determine whether there are revenue opportunities in the future.

Starting March 23, more information about downloading the data can be found in the “Rider Tools” section on Metro’s Website (www.metroopensdoors.com). Look for “Developer Resources.”