'Slugging' an Alternative to Metro During SafeTrack

• PHOTO courtesy of Federal HIghway Administration

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VIENNA, VA -- If you're worried about how you're going to get to work this week due to Metro repairs that started Saturday, one of the alternatives is getting into what's called a "slug line" for aka "casual carpooling."

Slugging is sharing a ride -- in this case, the driver or "slug," lines up at a spot where they gather riders to grab a spot in the HOV lanes.

Beginning Monday, slugs will line up next to the bike racks on the South Kiss & Ride parking lot. Peak hours will be from 7-8 a.m. Drop-off will be at the Foggy Bottom Metro.

Also read: Metro SafeTrack: Fairfax County Answers Commuter Questions

In the afternoon, peak hours from 4-5 p.m., slug lines will line up south of the bus stop at 23rd and I streets NW, toward Constitution Avenue.

Slugging is "an easy way to get to work — it’s faster than Metro; it doesn’t cost anything,” David Stiles, 54, a 30-year "slugger" who commutes from Springfield to Independence Avenue and 14th Street SW, recently told The Washington Post.

The Post reported that about 6,450 residents in Northern Virginia use slugging, according to VDOT.

Also read: Metro Delays Start Saturday: What Are Your Options?

Woodbridge resident Kalai Kandasamy developed a free sluglines app that unites commuters by showing drivers where riders have checked in.

There are two Web sites dedicated to slugging where you can find out more: Sluglines and Slug-Lines.com.

Slugging rules of etiquette

• Confirm Destination
• Say hello and thank you
• NO MONEY EXCHANGED
• First come first serve
• Feel free to pass a rider or a ride
• Buckle up
• Drive Safely
• Roll up the windows, maintain room temp.
• Keep it clean for the ride: Body and Car
• Play acceptable news or music
• Keep your phone conversation short (less than 2 minutes)
• Drop off at the pickup location