New bus facilities ready in time for opening of Herndon Metro Station

Recently completed bus bays near the Herndon Metro Station are officially open and awaiting the start of rail service on Nov. 15.

At a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday (Thursday), town and Fairfax County officials gathered to celebrate the opening of the $5.9 million project, designed to give Fairfax Connector buses and cars convenient access to the Metro station.

The project also includes shelters and a neighboring signalized crosswalk.

The bus bay provides drop-off lanes in both directions along Herndon Parkway. The signalized crosswalk also allows pedestrians a “safe crossing of Herndon Parkway,” according to the town.

State Sen. Jennifer Boysko thanked the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority for making the project possible.

“This project accomplishes NVTA’s goal, specifically around traffic congestion, which is our mission,” she said.

Noting that Herndon will be the only town in Virginia to have a Metro station in its town limits, Mayor Sheila Olem said the bus bay project is critical to addressing traffic congestion in the area, which has been an issue for 20 years.

“It’s gonna be great for the…safety of those using the Metro whether they’re walking, bussing or biking to the Metro,” Olem said.

Designed by Clark Nelson and built by Arthur Construction, the project began in August 2021.

The town pitched in $1.2 million for the project, along with an additional $41.5 million through general bonds. A combination of federal, regional and local grants filled the remainder of the price tag.

Phase II of the Silver Line is expected to open on Nov. 15.

Other transportation infrastructure to support the 11.4-mile extension in Loudoun County are also on the way, including changes to Fairfax Connector service.