Metro train operators are being warned they will be asked sometimes to skip stations to speed their trains up to schedule, as the transit agency struggles to improve its on-time performance.

“We now get daily reports on Headway Adherence, which measures our ability to keep trains separated based on our schedule,” Blue/Orange line director Charles Dziduch wrote in a memo dated Feb. 22. “It is important for operators to maintain their schedule when we have no delays on the railroad, or, to maintain proper separation if you are held at a particular location following incidents. … Operators will also be asked to express through stations on occasion for schedule purposes.”