The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) announced that the new Potomac Yard-VT Metrorail Station is now open.

The station is less than 15 minutes from the nation’s capital, Potomac Yard-VT, on the Blue and Yellow lines, and is the 98th station in the Metrorail system. 

Potomac Yard Station Announcement

Metro and the City of Alexandria first announced the opening date last month, following more than three years of construction.

A team of Metro staff was on hand throughout the day to welcome customers to Potomac Yard -VT Station for the first time and gave away commemorative opening day pennants.

The station’s fare vending machines were stocked with limited-edition Potomac Yard SmarTrip cards in honor of Metro’s newest station. 

“We are gearing up for the start of service and can’t wait to welcome customers to the new Potomac Yard-VT Station,” said Randy Clarke, Metro GM/CEO. “This station will provide better, more accessible transportation, spur economic growth, and help reduce the region’s carbon footprint.” 

The Station's Impact on Community

The new station anchors new development in the surrounding community, including housing, retail, and commercial space, and the new Virginia Tech Innovation Campus is expected to open next year.

Long-term, it is expected to support 26,000 new jobs and 13,000 new residents.

The station was initiated by the City of Alexandria and is funded by tax revenues, developer contributions, federal and state grants, loans, and regional sources.

Potomac Yard-VT Station will provide customers with access to Metroway and Alexandria DASH bus service and connect to other regional transportation systems, a Bike & Ride facility, and walking paths to the station from the surrounding area.

The station does not have parking facilities but is accessible via two pavilions, one on the north side and another to the south. 

The Station's Design

Sustainability was a focal point in the design including the artwork.

It was built to LEED Silver green building standards with advanced rainwater management, energy-efficient lighting, and water use systems, uses low emitting and recycled materials in construction, and minimizes the impact on the surrounding wetlands. 

Artwork featured on the exterior of the two entrance pavilions recognizes the station’s Virginia roots and the proximity to the nation’s capital.

Created by artist Rob Ley, the south pavilion features a representation of Virginia blue bells with the cherry blossoms on the north pavilion.