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Great analysis and graphics! Always happy to see people pointing out that the DC Metro is unique as it mediates the roles of urban subway with heavy commuter rail. Most of the lines don't even run along streets/corridors for more than a few consistent stops while the distance between stations has provided the unusual opportunity for transit infill (NoMa).

The flat fare vs. zoned/peak hour fare debate generates a lot of interesting and unanticipated side effects. In Toronto, which still has a single fare (token!) system for the entire subway-bus-streetcar network, cycling took off as a way of traveling short distances in the core much faster than the streetcars that operate in mixed traffic and without having to fork out the $3 flat fare.

Meanwhile, I know DC carowners who have done the math and calculated their reverse commute to the suburban office (with free parking) is cheaper than taking Metro in the peak hours.

Of course the other aspect not discussed in the post is the flat fare bus system which is a boon for the city; the bus goes more places in the region, travels along active mixed-use corridors, and is easier to improve strategically (ie the new K9 express route on New Hampshire Ave through PG, MoCo, Takoma Park and DC).

by eozberk on Apr 18, 2012 1:03 pm • link • report