Metro Considers Retail Kiosks in Stations

Please let it be true, please let it be true.

According to the Examiner, Metro's Board of Directors will vote this Thursday on a proposal to allow retail establishments in certain Metro stations and parking garages. If approved, the five-year pilot program would encompass 12 stations -- four in each jusrisdiction that Metro serves -- and may even be expanded to include the sale of food and beverages. The rationale for the decision? Money. Says the article:

One reason for easing restrictions is the amount of money these retailers could bring in for the cash-strapped agency. Metro officials had projected the 36 ATMs installed last year would bring in $360,000 in additional revenues. The number is now likely to reach more than $1 million for fiscal 2006, officials said.

Most of the retail establishments in the chosen stations would be outside the fare gates, spare Metro Center, Gallery Place-Chinatown and College Park, where they would be inside.

The article also notes that WMATA Chief Dan Tangherlini is considering ridding Metro of its worn carpets, a move we have long promoted.

Picture snapped by JamesCalder.