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WMATA sees ridership rebound and lower fare evasion but warns of capital funding cliff
Summary
WMATA officials told the subcommittee ridership and revenues are rising and fare evasion on rail has fallen, but a regional funding shortfall in later years threatens long‑term capital plans; the DMV Moves task force is working on a sustainable funding model.
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority ridership and revenue have rebounded sharply, WMATA officials and the Department of Legislative Services told the House Appropriations Committee Transportation and the Environment Subcommittee, but agency leaders warned that without a regional, dedicated funding solution the system faces a serious capital purchasing‑power shortfall in coming years.
DLS overview and numbers: The Department of Legislative Services reported that Maryland’s operating grant for WMATA rises by about $40 million (6.3%) for fiscal 2026; the analyst also noted the forecast shows larger declines in out years and described a multi‑year capital funding profile that depends on federal, state and debt sources. DLS said WMATA’s 2024 ridership increased by roughly 42 million trips (a 21% increase…
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