Randy Clarke, the new general manager of Metro, will be at Fort Totten Metro station today August 15 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm to talk with riders.

It appears the new GM is taking outreach seriously. I have submitted a few comments on Metro’s online comment form regarding Fort Totten station over the past few weeks, primarily about trash around the station and about fares. Someone from Metro actually called me about my comment on fares.

I had commented that I do not understand why Metro is charging peak fares while not providing peak service during peak hours. If Metro is running 6-car trains on the red line with 10-12 minute headways throughout the day, including during supposed peak hours, why is Metro charging extra money during peak hours. Riders are not getting peak service even though we are paying peak fares. I doubt Metro will actually do anything about this, but it was still interesting that someone called me and I had a chance to give my feedback.

And I think they are trying to be a bit better about cleaning up the litter on their grounds. With a 7-Eleven on station property, I am not necessarily surprised by the trash, but it might require a more frequent cleaning schedule. I had also asked if they considered adding recycling cans around the station, given the amount of empty bottles I see on the ground. In any case, I do think maintaining clean grounds is important for Metro not just from the standpoint of being a good neighbor but also its own mission. After all, those of us who ride Metro know all too well the hazards that trash on the tracks poses to service and the trash can clog storm drains.

I also have thoughts about Metro’s joint real estate development program. Aventine Fort Totten is a joint development project. Also Metro has tried a couple of times now to develop the long term parking lot at Fort Totten station. Metro officials plan to try again soon according to their most recent joint development strategic plan.

Edited to add: On my way to Metro this morning, I saw that they have apparently decided to start fixing the road in front of the fire hydrant by the 7-Eleven that has been buckled for several years now. The quick fix-its over the years have not held up.