WMATA seeks public comment on planned training facility

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is seeking public feedback on plans for a training center that would consolidate the agency's training functions into one facility designed to replicate real-world transit environments and support both hands-on and classroom instruction.

The project proposes the demolition of an existing WMATA-owned warehouse in Andover, Maryland, to be replaced by a new 380,000 square-foot purpose-built structure, WMATA officials said in a press release.

Planned facilities include a replica WMATA Metro Rail station and tunnel complete with rail cars, and modern learning spaces designed for hands-on practicum, classroom and virtual learning environments. A dedicated Metro Transit Police Department Training Academy would also be located at the center, with secure and separate access.

Details of the proposed project, including site plans, are available for public review.

A public in-person and virtual hearing will be held on Sept. 17; feedback via survey, written comments or uploaded documents will be accepted until Sept. 28.

All public comments will be provided to WMATA's board in the fall for final review and inclusion in WMATA's Mass Transit Plan.

If the project advances, the Prince George’s County Planning Department will be responsible for evaluating the scope and impact on public facilities, WMATA officials said.