With heightened security concerns, the MTA is taking action to safeguard the safety of its riders. The events of September 11, 2001, remind everyone that we must do all we can to be prepared for such an emergency. Use these route instructions only in case of a civil defense emergency, and share it with others who rely on Commuter Bus services.
Except for Commuter Bus lines #913, #921 & #991 that will follow their usual route (under either evacuation scenario), these D.C. based plans identify two scenarios how riders can return to their home areas or Park & Ride facilities. Please be advised that these plans are to be used only in extreme civil defense emergencies. Follow the normal Weather and Snow Emergency Plan for any weather-related early release from workplaces or schools.
The following information will help Commuter Bus riders plan how to get home in the event of a civil defense emergency. These scenarios represent the MTA’s basic emergency service plan. The actual response will depend on the location, time of day, nature and severity of the incident, and the response of operating motor coach companies. The MTA will make every effort to provide alternate service for its passengers. Available information will be posted Here online.
If Metrorail is Operational:
Commuter Bus #901, #902, #905, #907, #909 & #913 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should take the Metrorail Green Line to Branch Avenue Station. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #903 & #904 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should take the Metrorail Green Line to Suitland Station. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #915 & #929 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should take the Metrorail Red Line to the Silver Spring Station. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #921, #922 & #950 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should take the Metrorail Orange Line to New Carrollton Station. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #991 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should take the Metrorail Red Line to the Shady Grove Station. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #995 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should take the Metrorail Green Line to the Greenbelt Station. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
If Metrorail is NOT Operational:
Commuter Bus #901, #902, #903, #904, #905, #907 & #909 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should make their way to 7th & Maryland Ave, S.W. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #915, #929 & #995 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should make their way to 15th & P Sts., N.W. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #922 & #950 Riders:
MTA Commuters in Washington, DC should make their way to New York Avenue between 7th & 9th Sts., N.W. Motor coaches will be dispatched from this location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #913 Riders:
MTA Commuters are advised that a departure from within Washington, D.C. may rely on a transit mode alternative provided by WMATA in the event that the Metrorail is inoperable. However, #913 Riders have the option to make their way to 7th & Maryland Ave, S.W. Motor coaches will be dispatched from that location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #921 Riders:
MTA Commuters are advised that a departure from within Washington, D.C. may rely on a transit mode alternative provided by WMATA in the event that the Metrorail is inoperable. However, #921 Riders have the option to make their way to New York Avenue between 7th & 9th Sts., N.W. Motor coaches will be dispatched from that location as passenger demand warrants.
Commuter Bus #991 Riders:
MTA Commuters are advised that a departure from within Washington, D.C. may rely on a transit mode alternative provided by WMATA in the event that the Metrorail is inoperable. Because most #991 Riders use Metrorail for diverse destinations within the region, motor coaches must operate the regular route from the Rock Spring Business Park to Frederick (Monocacy MARC Station) via the Shady Grove Metrorail Station and the Urbana Park & Ride.
In the event of a civil defense emergency, please listen to emergency instructions from police or civil authorities on evacuation. While the natural reaction is to immediately head for home, keep in mind that transit systems and roads will become quickly congested should everybody attempt to leave at once. If authorities urge delaying your departure, please cooperate and everyone will get home faster.
Routes and emergency plans are subject to change without notice. The MTA recommends its riders to prepare alternate plans to return home. One option should involve public transportation and another should not be dependant upon transit services.
MTA Transit Team broadcasts may be heard on both A.M. and F.M. radio stations and will announce all emergency updates. Commuter Bus motor coaches comply with all federal requirements to accommodate passengers with disabilities. Please direct all comments and questions to CommuterBus@mtamaryland.com via e-mail. To sign up for e-notifications, Click Here for Commuter Bus updates.
