Most of the news or opinion pieces I read about the Metro is far from glowing. In my opinion, there are far more pros than cons with taking the Metro. My goal in writing this short piece is to reflect on why I enjoy it so much.
Productivity Multiplier
As Cameron Station residents, we have the benefit and luxury of having consistent and reliable shuttle and Metro service during primary commuting hours. Instead of arriving to work frustrated from traffic issues, I am able to read the news and catch up on personal and professional email that came in over the previous night. The return trip is my time to unwind and prepare to engage with my family once back home. I may listen to a podcast or read a book. I like to return personal email as well, but I prefer not to touch my professional email unless an urgent matter arises.
Click here for the Shuttle Bus schedule.
Getting to Know Cameron Station Residents
As a current board member, I enjoy hearing from residents about their concerns, hopes, and dreams. An effortless way to do that is by riding the shuttle. I have gotten to know some residents quite well over the last few years…we have talked about current events, upcoming travel, family successes and losses, and of course Cameron Station. Cameron Station has some really good people living here, and I have been fortunate to meet many on the shuttle.
People Watching
People travel all the way to Las Vegas to “people watch”! Why not save your money and hop on the Metro instead? The variety of people who ride the shuttle is quite amazing: kids going to school; federal and local government workers;first responders; businesspeople; professionals in the service industry… I enjoy being around my fellow Metro riders as I do a little people watching, without having to travel to Vegas.
Engaging with Locals/Travelers
On one occasion, I was standing on the platform waiting for the Yellow Line when an older gentleman turned to me and thanked me for my service, a fairly common occurrence when in uniform. I said, “You’re welcome.” and reassured him that I have enjoyed serving over the course of my military career. He then introduced me to his son, who was on leave fromthe Air Force Academy. I was a little jealous since I also attended the Air Force Academy and realized how long it has been since my own graduation. For the next few stops, I was able to pass on advice, influenced by my post- Air Force Academy career. I wished him luck and provided him my contact info in case he had any follow-up questions or needed career advice.
Unusual Occurrences
Occasionally there are unusual occurrences that sometimes require intervention. A nerve-wracking incident occurred on a Friday afternoon between the King Street and Van Dorn Metro stops. I was returning from work when a younger individual was displaying some erratic behavior on the opposite side of the train car, which included saluting me. My normal response is to salute back, acknowledging their display of recognition. Shortly thereafter, he started to transit between the cars, which entails walking outside the car. At this point, I, along with the other riders, was getting incredibly nervous for this individual’s safety.
At our next stop, which happened to be Van Dorn, I picked up the emergency phone, identified myself as a military member, and said that I was concerned for this particular passenger’s safety. The Metrorail operator replied with, “We don’t recognize your rank, and I can’t stop the train until the end of the line.” I replied with, “That’s fine, but I’m still concerned for his safety.” I was not attempting to “pull rank” on the conductor; my rationale was to hopefully add a little credibility. In the end, and thankfully, the individual made it to his stop safely, and I learned a lesson myself –military rank only goes so far.
I appreciate our Cameron Station shuttle bus drivers, Metrorail operators, and the rest of the Metro workforce who keep the trains running safely day in and day out. It allows me time to catch up on email, read the news before a long day at work, meet new people, and wind down after work.
Next time you are on the shuttle, please say hi to your fellow riders and learn more about each other. I hope to see you soon.
Chris Mulder has lived in Cameron Station for four years. He is an active duty Air Force officer who takes the Metro to and from Crystal City. He is a current Cameron Station director, enjoys playing pickleball with his family at Armistead Boothe Park, and appreciates everyone who works hard to help make Cameron Station a great place to live.
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