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DC Metro Might Be Getting More Funds

If local governments dedicate matching funds, the Washington area`s Metro transit system would get $1.5 billion in new federal funds over 10 years under a House of Representatives bill passed by a two-thirds majority of 242 to 120 late on Monday. The bill, together with a measure passed on June 29 by the House, provides a mechanism to provide new funds for upgrades and maintenance for the aging rail and bus system.

Metro officials and the bill`s sponsor, Rep. Tom Davis, a Republican from Washington`s Virginia suburbs, argue that this is unique among large transit systems and leaves the 30-year-old system vulnerable to deterioration and breakdowns as it strains to carry more riders. "In many ways, the Metro is the lifeblood of the federal government," Davis says. "Federal workers make up more than half of rush-hour subway riders, and more than 50 federal agencies are located adjacent to subway stations."

The Metro`s fiscal 2007 budget calls for the communities to pay a $461 million subsidy, up 6 percent from the $434 million paid in fiscal 2006. Metro`s total operating budget is $1.1 billion. The Metro getting the money is contingent on Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia matching the funds with a dedicated revenue source.