Red Line to be shut for summer repairs; county outlines shuttles, bus lanes and parking plans

County officials warned commuters on Wednesday that Metro will suspend Red Line service between North Bethesda and Friendship Heights from July 6 through Sept. 6 for summer work, and described planned mitigation including shuttle buses and bus-only lanes on MD 355.

"Starting July 6th and running through September 6, Metro is shutting down the Red Line service between North Bethesda and Friendship Heights," County Executive Mark said. The county said free shuttle buses will replace train service at several stations and operate every 5 to 8 minutes during Metro Rail operating hours; express shuttles between North Bethesda and Friendship Heights are estimated to take about 26 minutes.

Officials said the Maryland State Highway Administration is leading the MD 355 bus-lane project, with nearly eight miles of dedicated lanes being added and state crews striping the roadway ahead of the July 6 start. County officials urged drivers to avoid the bus-only lanes once they are in effect and noted that signage will be installed and bagged until service begins.

Free parking will be available at North Bethesda and nearby stations to support shuttle use, county officials said. The county also said transportation leaders will monitor impacts and adjust shuttle frequency and routeing as needed.

Officials directed residents to the states information pages (search "2026 Metro Redline summer") for updates on service and said they will share graphics prepared by the state to help riders plan alternate trips. Questions about Metro operations and the MD 355 roadway work should be directed to Metro and the Maryland State Highway Administration, county officials added.