Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) GM Paul J. Wiedefeld and Fairfax County officials held a ribbon cutting today celebrating the completion of $5.5 million in bus improvements at the Franconia-Springfield Metro station.

The improvements expand capacity and provide additional amenities to enhance the customer experience, including three new bus bays and the introduction of real-time bus arrival information. A newly installed canopy supported with steel truss columns connects the bus area to the station entrance providing weather protection and easy access between Metrobus and Metrorail service.

Metro also added 10 larger, modernized steel and glass bus shelters which are equipped with new real-time bus arrival display signs. Sidewalk and crosswalk improvements will provide safer access for pedestrians as well.

“Safety and convenience are among the top priorities for Metrobus customers and Metro is excited to deliver both with these improvements made possible through the TIGER grant program,” said Wiedefeld.

The project increases bus capacity by more than 40% at the station, which is served by Metrobus, Fairfax Connector, PRTC OmniRide, and other commercial bus service. It was funded with a Federal Transit Administration Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant secured through the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.