Photo by Mr. T in DC

Photo by Mr. T in DC

Of all the programs WMATA could introduce, new social media accounts are likely not what users of the run-down system would call a priority.

But, like it or not, Metro announced today that it has created two new Twitter accounts for updates about rail and bus service: @metrorailinfo and @metrobusinfo.

The main @WMATA Twitter account, which has over 47,000 followers, will continue to provide “general information, including news releases, major announcements, new initiatives, and destination promotions,” according to a news release tweeted out from that handle.

Also announced was the creation of @MetroTransitPD, a Twitter account dedicated to the Metro Transit Police Department. It will provide crime prevention tips, as well as updates on MTPD investigations. It should not, as the release points out, be used to call for help. That’s what 911 is for.

While complaining about Metro is currently in vogue (even if it’s justified most of the time), not everyone thinks this new multi-Twitter account system is a bad idea. Heather Goss, assistant editor at the Smithsonian’s Air & Space Magazine, tweeted this defense: “Guys, splitting bus/rail updates is smart! You don’t have to praise, but enough with criticizing @wmata just because it’s habit.”

In case you were wondering, Chris Barnes of FixWMATA has already been blocked from all new accounts.

Filed Under: social media, twitter, wmata,