Capitol South station
| Company type | Washington Metro station |
|---|---|
| Industry | Public transportation |
| Founded | July 1, 1977 |
| Headquarters | Washington, D.C. , United States |
| Products | Rapid transit services (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines) |
| Owner | Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) |
Capitol South station is a Washington Metro facility located within the Capitol Hill area of Washington, D.C., United States. This station, featuring an island-platform design, commenced operations on July 1, 1977. It is managed by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and accommodates the Blue, Orange, and Silver transit routes.
History
The station began service on July 1, 1977, aligning with the inauguration of rail service extending between National Airport and RFK Stadium. This expansion included several stations such as Arlington Cemetery, Crystal City, Eastern Market, and Farragut West, among others. The introduction of the Orange Line occurred later, on November 20, 1978.
During the 2000s, the station underwent a repainting process that resulted in a white color scheme.
Service for the Silver Line was initiated on July 26, 2014.
From January 15 to January 21, 2021, Capitol South was temporarily closed due to security measures related to the Inauguration of Joe Biden.
Location
Positioned in the south-central portion of the Capitol Hill district, Capitol South is encircled by significant government institutions. It stands as the nearest metro stop to the Capitol Building, which houses both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Within a quarter-mile radius are all three buildings of the Library of Congress, as well as the main offices of both the Democratic National Committee and the Republican National Committee. Additionally, the Folger Shakespeare Library, renowned for possessing the largest collection globally of printed Shakespearean literature, is located a brief five-minute walk to the west.
Station layout
The sole access point to Capitol South is situated at 1st Street SE and C Street SE. From street level, passengers ascend three escalators or use a staircase to reach the mezzanine level where ticketing and faregate areas are located. Further escalators transport riders down to the platform area. Accessibility is ensured by two elevators: one connecting street level at 1st Street SE and D Street SE to the mezzanine, and another linking the mezzanine to the platform.
The station has an island platform servicing two tracks designated D1 and D2. Track D1 accommodates eastbound trains traveling toward New Carrollton or Largo, whereas track D2 serves westbound trains heading to Vienna, Franconia–Springfield, or Ashburn.