About This Series

Off the Rails

Wednesday, June 8, 2005; 4:51 PM

Washington's world-class subway has fallen into decline, and nearly $1 billion spent on projects to upgrade the system has not improved service.

Efforts to Repair Aging System Compound Metro's Problems

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The Downside of Escalator Renovation

Interactive Graphic: How Escalators Work

Interactive Graphic: Metro Escalators

Graphic: More Riders

Photo Gallery: System Flaws

Day 2

As the number of Metro derailments, rail breaks and other safety concerns has risen sharply, records show that many incidents could have been prevented had managers heeded warnings from experts and employees.

Safety Warnings Often Ignored at Metro

Metro Trying to Erase Image of Poor Service

Interactive Graphic: Emergency Scenarios

Graphic: Safety and Discipline

Graphic: How Metro Inspects Its Rails

Photo Gallery: Safety Issues

Day 3

MetroAccess, the transportation program for the disabled, has been plagued by poor service, rising costs and dishonest drivers and riders.

Service for Disabled Is Troubled

Graphic: MetroAccess by the Numbers

Photo Gallery: Probing Fraud

Day 4

Even as Metro officials complain about tight finances, they continue to spend millions on projects that have little to do with the core mission of transporting customers.