The 990 DTC Bus Route: A Vital Transportation Hub for Washingtonians

The 990 DTC Bus Route, operated by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), plays a crucial role in connecting commuters, students, and residents in Northern Virginia to the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. With its extensive route network and frequent service, the 990 DTC has become an indispensable part of the region's transportation system.

Route Overview

The 990 DTC Bus Route runs between the Pentagon City Metro Station and the Dulles Technology Corridor (DTC) in Herndon, Virginia. The route spans approximately 18 miles and serves over 18,000 daily riders. With 33 stops along its path, the 990 DTC connects commuters to major employment centers, residential areas, and shopping destinations.

Key Destinations

• Pentagon City Metro Station
• Army Navy Country Club
• Fashion Centre at Pentagon City
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Rosslyn Metro Station
• Georgetown University
• McLean Metro Station
• Tyson's Corner Center
• Herndon-Monroe Metro Station
• Dulles Technology Corridor

Service Frequency

The 990 DTC Bus Route operates on a varying schedule depending on the time of day.

• Weekdays: Buses run every 10-15 minutes during peak hours (6-9am and 3-6pm) and every 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours.
• Weekends: Buses run every 20-30 minutes throughout the day.

Fare Information

Fares for the 990 DTC Bus Route are consistent with WMATA's standard bus fare structure.

• Single Ride: $2.00
• SmarTrip Card (Pay-as-you-go): $1.50
• Monthly Pass: $75.00
• Regional Reduced Fare (65+ and disabled): $1.00

Accessibility

The 990 DTC Bus Route is fully accessible to passengers with disabilities.

• All buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps.
• Designated seating is available for passengers with disabilities.
• Bus operators are trained to assist passengers with disabilities.

Benefits of Using the 990 DTC Bus Route

Riding the 990 DTC Bus Route offers numerous benefits for commuters and residents alike.

• Convenience: The comprehensive route network and frequent service make it easy to access key destinations in the region.
• Time-Saving: Compared to driving in congested traffic, taking the bus can save commuters valuable time.
• Cost-Effective: Bus fares are significantly more affordable than owning and operating a personal vehicle.
• Environmental Sustainability: By reducing the number of vehicles on the road, the 990 DTC Bus Route contributes to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

Humorous Moments on the 990 DTC Bus Route

While the 990 DTC Bus Route is primarily a daily commuting hub, it has also been a stage for some humorous moments.

• One passenger accidentally left a large bag of groceries on the bus. The bus operator, with a wry smile, announced, "Please check if you're the owner of the lost groceries. They're starting to look quite hungry."
• A group of schoolchildren on a field trip couldn't contain their excitement and broke into a spontaneous round of "The Wheels on the Bus" during the ride.
• A passenger with a pet bird brought it along for the journey. The bird, perched on his shoulder, chatted animatedly with nearby passengers, eliciting both laughter and awe.

Real-Time Bus Tracking

For added convenience, WMATA offers real-time bus tracking for the 990 DTC Bus Route through the "Bus Tracker" feature on its website and mobile app. This service allows passengers to track the location of their bus in real-time, helping them plan their trips and minimize wait times.

Safety Tips

To ensure a safe and pleasant bus riding experience, WMATA recommends adhering to the following safety tips:

• Stand back from the bus stop until the bus comes to a complete stop.
• Hold on to the handrails when standing.
• Be aware of your surroundings and personal belongings.
• Report any suspicious activity or emergencies to the bus operator or WMATA immediately.

Conclusion

The 990 DTC Bus Route is an essential and vibrant part of the Washington, D.C. transportation network. Its extensive route, frequent service, and affordability make it a preferred choice for commuters, students, and residents alike. By embracing the convenience, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits of taking the bus, we can collectively contribute to a healthier, more sustainable, and connected region.