FALLS CHURCH, Va. -- The board that oversees the metropolitan Washington region’s Metrorail system is taking advantage of decreased ridership by greatly expanding a series of planned maintenance closures over the summer.
The expanded summer shutdowns will affect northern Virginia in particular -- the entire Silver Line will be closed.
Nine stations in Fairfax and Arlington counties will close.
Several of those stations had already been slated for closure this summer to repair platforms and perform other maintenance. Free shuttle bases will run from some closed stations.
Metro officials say ridership declines of as much as 95 percent due to the coronavirus provide an opportunity to do even more maintenance with less disruption.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.