More than a dozen Metrobus routes in Washington, D.C., will run 24 hours a day, seven days a week beginning Sunday.
During the hours of 9 p.m. and 7 a.m., Metrobus will operate at least every 20 minutes on the following 14 routes: A6, A8, B2, H4, S2, V2, W4, X2, 32, 33, 52, 70, 80, 92.
D.C. is paying for the extra Metrobus service, and Metro secured the funding back in October.
The extended hours are meant to help support late-night and early-morning workers in hospitality, health care and entertainment, Metro said. Many of the selected bus routes run through the city’s late night hot spots and entertainment venues.
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"We are honored to serve the dedicated essential workers who keep the heart of our community beating," Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke said in a news release from Metro on Dec. 5.
Bus riders traveling between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. can also request a “courtesy stop” between designated bus stops, to get off closer to their destination. A safe location will be identified at the bus operator's discretion, Metro said.
There were some questions about safety and security when D.C. leaders and Metro discussed the plan for 24/7 bus service back in October. Metro said in its release the Metro Transit Police Department is available 24/7 for emergencies, and customers can contact MTPD by texting 696873 (MYMTPD) or calling (202) 962-2121 in an emergency.
