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Metro’s revised fiscal 2027 budget proposal would increase rail and bus service while limiting growth in subsidies from participating jurisdictions to 1.8%, below both inflation and the region’s 3% target.

The plan updates the budget first presented to the WMATA Board of Directors in December 2025. It reflects newer midyear financial figures and regional economic trends, along with continued growth in ridership and fare revenue.

Metro plans to strengthen fare collection by expanding Tap. Ride. Go., which is available on Metrorail and Metrobus and is being introduced at more than 40 Metro parking facilities. The program and other fare options are intended to make the system easier to use and more accessible.

Officials also pointed to the Metro Transit Police Department’s role in supporting ridership growth. Metro reported the lowest crime rate in its history alongside increased systemwide revenue-collection efforts.

Cost-control measures include eliminating non-operating positions to reduce overhead. Metro is also working with other regional government entities on energy contracts, using shared purchasing power and fuel hedging to limit uncertainty from fluctuating markets.

Bus service changes

Bus improvements included in the original proposal—covering nine routes in the District of Columbia and two in Virginia—are scheduled to begin on or near July 1, 2026.

A second round of improvements is under consideration for December 2026, subject to board approval. It would increase frequency on 13 District routes and, in some cases, add midday, weekend or 24-hour service as part of the Better Bus network.

Previously proposed changes to six Maryland routes have been deferred because of state budget considerations.

More frequent rail service

Orange, Silver and Blue Line trains would operate every 10 minutes on weekdays before 9:30 p.m., improving on the current 12-minute intervals. The change, planned for December 2026, is intended to serve off-peak demand and encourage all-day ridership.

The Red Line would also receive more frequent late-night service beginning in December 2026. Trains would arrive every seven to nine minutes instead of every 10 minutes from 9:30 p.m. until closing, seven days a week.

New paratransit fee

Abilities Ride trips would carry a $3 administrative fee per trip beginning July 1, 2026.

The Board of Directors was expected to consider the recommendations and adopt the final fiscal 2027 budget on April 23, 2026.