Metro: Safety Behind Silver Line Extension

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Metro says safety is behind a decision to extend the Silver Line.

The transit agency says track near the Stadium-Armory stop that was planned to turn around trains is short. And it can't be retrofitted with switches federal regulators are recommending to prevent derailments. Metro officials say turning trains on the short section would be difficult for all but the most skilled operators.

The Washington Post reports that Metro officials say they have decided to extend service to Largo rather than ending the line at the Stadium-Armory station. A report expected to be released Thursday says Metro will need an extra $4.6 million in the first year for the revised Silver Line plan.

The first phase of the $5.6 billion Silver Line is expected to be completed in August.

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