Metro’s board changed four rail stations’ names after more than two hours of discussion Thursday, veering at times from a policy they adopted just months ago. The transit agency staff had urged simple names not exceeding 19 characters that reflected locations within walking distance after conducting focus groups with riders. But the agency lost out on some of its recommendations after community groups extensively lobbied board members.

The changes will be tied to an already planned revision of Metro’s map slated for next summer.