Metro’s Silver Line Extension is Finally Open!
After much anticipation, Metro’s Silver Line Extension is finally open! As of November 15th, 2022, Metro riders in the DC area are now able to take advantage of transport to six new stations along 11.4 miles of track.
We know you likely have numerous questions about the new opening, including new stops, cost to ride, and what the heck took so long?! Well, we’re here to break it all down for you!
Where Will the New Extension Go?
The new Silver Line Extension will start from the current end-of-the-line station, Wiehle-Reston East, and will travel North/Northwest through Reston Town Center and Herndon to Dulles International Airport and beyond with a final stop in Ashburn in Eastern Loudoun County.
What Stops are Included Exactly?
The six new Metrorail stations part of the extension include:
- Reston Town Center (12023-A Sunset Hills Road, Reston)
- Herndon (585-A Herndon Parkway, Herndon)
- Innovation Center (13747-A Sunrise Valley Drive, Herndon)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (44920 Saarinen Circle, Sterling)
- Loudoun Gateway (22505 Lockridge Road, Sterling)
- Ashburn (43655 Ashburn Metro Drive, Ashburn)
In addition to the new stations, riders will also be happy to hear the Silver Line Extension also includes a brand-new rail maintenance system!
How Much Will it Cost to Ride?
Although it depends on the time and distance of your travel, fares for the Metro typically range anywhere from $2-$6, and the Silver Line Extension will be no exception.
What (The Heck) Took So Long?
If you’re wondering what in the world took so long, you’re definitely not alone.
The opening of Phase 2 of the Silver Line, also known as the Silver Line Extension, marks the completion of the Silver Line Project, a 23-mile, generational infrastructure initiative — one of the largest capital construction projects in the United States to date. Phase 2 first began construction in 2014 and since then has faced numerous management issues, construction pains, four years of delays, and financial woes accumulating to about $250 million in cost overruns. Additionally, there have been 5 months of necessary testing, training, and safety certification efforts by Metro in addition to the reprinting of thousands of maps to include the new stops.
While the setbacks are certainly more nuanced and not the fault of one person or authority, riders are the ones who have ultimately paid the price.
Bon Voyage!
The opening of the Silver Line Extension undoubtedly marks a huge milestone for DC commuters and transit authorities. Never before have riders been able to take advantage of such reliable, convenient transportation from Downtown DC into Eastern Loudoun County, including transit to the long-awaited stop at Washington Dulles International Airport.
We hope that we’ve been able to answer any questions you may have about the new Silver Line Extension opening. If not, feel free to contact us via our website or at (703) 674-1777.
Happy travels!
