The opening date for Loudoun County’s newly extended Silver Line Metrorail system has been set for Tuesday, Nov. 15. Stations at Loudoun Gateway, Ashburn, and Washington Dulles International Airport will connect local Metro customers to certain destinations for the first time ever.

Board members broke the news in a YouTube video featuring Metro employees from multiple different departments, declaring “We’re Ready for You!” In a statement to the press, Loudoun Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Tony Howard described the Extension as a historic event for Loudoun County.

“For the first time, Loudoun County will be connected to the rest of the National Capitol Region by mass rail transit, opening a world of economic and quality of life opportunities for our residents and our businesses,” Howard said in his statement. “Future generations of Loudouners will benefit from the presence of Metrorail service in our community.”

The Silver Line Extension will improve public mobility and lead to higher employment rates, seeing as around 420,000 people live within five miles of the new stations. Additionally, a direct ride to Washington Dulles International Airport will provide easier, more accessible air travel. 

“It’s another option to go to work, school, see friends, shop, and get to the airport to travel to see people across the country or even around the world,” Virginia Senator Tim Kaine said in an interview. “This corridor is so dynamic, with so many different activities there that I think it’s really going to be a good connector for Northern Virginia and provide a way where people can get around without having to rely on cars.”

This idea has been in the running since 2012 and has brought thousands of hard-working people together. In reflection, Metro General Manager/CEO Randy Clarke recognized his associates’ participation.

“We appreciate our partners at MWAA, FTA, WMSC, Fairfax and Loudoun Counties who have worked collaboratively with us for several years to reach this moment,” Clarke said on Metro’s official website.