For those looking to take Metro to the U.S. Open, beware: It’ll cost you. The U.S. Golf Association’s plans allow for free shuttles from sites more than 10 miles away in Gaithersburg and Dulles, but those riding Metro to the recommended Grosvenor-Strathmore station will have to fork over $8 a day for their tournament shuttle.
But even the privilege to pay isn’t open to everyone. The shuttles assigned to the Metro station can accommodate only 3,000 to 3,500 spectators daily, so riders will have to sign up in advance to reserve their spot.
To make things more complicated, the Music Center at Strathmore is hosting an event by CityDance that is expected to attract nearly 2,000 people Saturday afternoon, one of the tournament’s busiest days. So, those looking to use the Metro station as a satellite lot may find some competition.
The station garage has 1,894 spaces. A spokesman for Strathmore said they had alerted CityDance about the situation but were hoping most drivers would choose to park in Gaithersburg or Dulles.
There are 22,000 parking spaces between both off-site parking locations.
Wes Guckert, president of the Traffic Group consulting firm, said he didn’t see the pay shuttle as punishing those who take public transit, noting it was also the most convenient tournament shuttle option.
“You have to remember they’re paying quite a bit of money to be spectators at this event,” he said. “At that point, what’s a few extra bucks for a shuttle?” – Liz Farmer
