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Rail operations inspection uncovers significant staff shortages and inadequate training issues within the Metro Safety Commission

Greetings, Alexandria! Today is August 28, 2025, marking the 240th day of the year. Only 125 days remain until the end of the year. Sunshine on the horizon! Today's forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies, gradually clearing up, with temperatures peaking at around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The...

Rail operations audit reveals significant gaps in staffing and training among Metro safety...
Rail operations audit reveals significant gaps in staffing and training among Metro safety commission staff

Rail operations inspection uncovers significant staff shortages and inadequate training issues within the Metro Safety Commission

In the world of Alexandria, there's always something happening. Here's a snapshot of the latest news and upcoming events:

Conflicting Data in Controller Competency Levels

The Washington Metrorail Safety Commission has identified conflicting data about individual controller competency levels due to inconsistent written assessments and certification tests. The commission found operational deficiencies, including training deficiencies, communication issues, and procedural compliance problems.

Community Engagement with Mayor Alyia Gaskins

Mayor Alyia Gaskins will have a monthly conversation with the community next Tuesday. This is an excellent opportunity for residents to voice their concerns and ideas, and to stay informed about city matters.

Events Around Town

  • Today, the T(w)een STEM Hour, The Nerdy Knotters - Knitting and Crochet group, and the American Style Mahjong - Learn and Play event are happening at various libraries.
  • The Old Town North Farmers' Market and the Summer Film Series - "Judy" are taking place at Montgomery Park and Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library respectively.
  • Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace is part of the Happy Hour Thursday event.
  • Tai Chi is happening at Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library.
  • The Intro to Robotics for Kids event is at James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library.

Upcoming Community Meetings

  • The City of Alexandria will host the second Duke Street Land Use Plan Community Meeting on Sept. 25.

Lease Opportunities

Two commercial properties at 1503-1505 Mount Vernon Ave. are being marketed for lease starting Sept. 1.

Relocation of the National Science Foundation

The GSA is searching for new Alexandria office space for the National Science Foundation, which is being relocated.

Investigation into CEO Erik Johnson

The Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA) board has placed CEO Erik Johnson on probationary status with a final warning and hired an independent law firm, Kessler Collins, for investigation.

Entertainment Highlights

  • Live Piano Music is happening tonight at The Study at Morrison House.
  • Shalamar is performing tonight at The Birchmere.
  • The Summer Cup Pong Tournament is happening tonight at Daniel O'Connell's.

Civic Affairs

  • An Alexandria frozen custard shop has received a $50,000 historic preservation grant.
  • Alexandria police are investigating a hit-and-run on Richenbacher Avenue.

Art Exhibition

Nepenthe Gallery is hosting a newly acquired artwork viewing today.

Coding Game Night for Ages 6-12

For the younger tech enthusiasts, Coding Game Night for ages 6-12 is happening today at Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library.

Metro's Corrective Action Plans

Metro must submit corrective action plans for all nine findings within 30 days of the report's issuance. This includes addressing training deficiencies, communication issues, and procedural compliance problems.

Metro's Train the Trainer Program

Metro's Train the Trainer program for rail instruction lacks proper procedural definition. This is one of the areas that needs immediate attention in order to ensure the safety and efficiency of rail operations.

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