​Metro Closing Three Stations Along Red Line for Summer Construction 

(June 11, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA) is installing approximately 7.5 lane-miles of bus lanes utilizing lane striping and signage at locations along MD 355 (Wisconsin Avenue) in Montgomery County to support bus service from July 6 to September 6, when Metro rail trains will not operate between North Bethesda and Friendship Heights Metro stations.

Metro’s Summer 2026 Red Line Major Construction project will close the Red Line rail train service between the North Bethesda and Friendship Heights stations, and the agency will implement a free shuttle bus program to shuttle riders between the stations. In May, Metro hosted a public information meeting to discuss the project. A recording of that meeting is available here. For additional details and updates, go to Metro’s website​.

​

Dedicated bus lane locations on Wisconsin Avenue

In coordination with partner agencies and to help travelers move through the busy corridor during the Red Line Major Construction, SHA is implementing the dedicated bus lanes and has installed eight Variable Message Sign boards and stationary signs to inform commuters of bus lane operation from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday during the Metro construction, starting July 6. The project is a partnership between SHA, Metro and the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, as well as the Maryland Transit Administration. For details, visit the Project Portal.

During the Metro construction, the northern bus lane segment (North of I-495 to Marinelli Road) will be evaluated to determine if sections should be considered for permanent dedicated bus lanes. Data will be published and input from residents, businesses and others will inform future decisions. The southern bus lane segment (Woodmont Avenue to Western Avenue) will be in place for the shutdown period only because the level of bus service is insufficient to warrant consideration of permanent bus lanes.

SHA is Serious About Safety, pursuing a department-wide commitment to advance improvements that drive safety goals and save lives. SHA appreciates customers’ patience as crews work to improve Maryland’s transportation system. Motorists are asked to stay alert, stay focused and be aware of reduced speed limits and changing driving patterns. Slow down and move over in work zones. It’s the law.​