What’s New on the Met Branch Trail?

As we dig ourselves out of what promises to be the final snowstorm before spring, there are many new faces on the Met Branch Trail and two coming attractions that promise to keep the trail busier than ever this year. Pedestrian bridge construction is moving along Anyone who rides the Red line through the Rhode Island Avenue Station or the MBT beside it has likely seen some interesting new structures growing near the trail. As construction continues, a ramp, staircase, and bridge over the rail tracks will take shape. Here is what to expect. When complete, the project will provide a direct connection from the Met Branch Trail to the Rhode Island Avenue/Brentwood Metro station and places east by foot and bike. The bridge will be a dramatic improvement from the current winding, cage-like ramp to Rhode Island Avenue and a much needed trail link for the area. It will shorten the circuitous route from the Metro to MBT from over a third of a mile to just a few hundred feet. With a new Capital Bikeshare station, shops, apartments and Metro gaining an easy trail connection, we expect to see many new faces on trail. The project is on track for completion in early 2015. Read more on the project website. New Capital Bikeshare Stations If you live, work, or play near the northern end of the built Met Branch Trail, three new Capital Bikeshare stations may come in handy. The following new stations are located at:

• Rhode Island Metro Station: 3 minute ride from trail (map)
• Fort Totten Metro Station: 4 minute ride from the trail and 1 minute ride from interim MBT route (map)
• Takoma Metro Station: directly on the interim MBT route (map)