WMATA to allow bikes on trains at any time

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) next week will end a longstanding restriction on bicycles allowed on trains during rush hours.

A policy change that takes effect Jan. 7 will enable riders to board any train at any time with a bike. The change is expected to make Metrorail a more attractive travel option for reverse commuters who need their bike to travel between a station and their workplace, WMATA officials said in a press release.

"We received requests from the Washington Area Bicyclist Association and others in the bicycle community asking us to take a fresh look at our policy," said WMATA Chief Operating Officer Joe Leader. "We believe this change supports ridership growth."

Under the new policy, standard-size bikes will be allowed on any car at all times, provided space is available. WMATA plans to monitor the implementation of the new policy to determine whether any modifications are necessary.

Less than 1 percent of riders arrived at their station by bike in 2016. WMATA's board has set a goal to increase the percentage to 2.1 percent by 2020.