This post was written by Hatchet staff writer Julie Alderman.
The online coupon company LivingSocial will pay $29,500 an hour to keep Metro open late during the Nationals’ playoff season.
Metro will remain open for an extra one to two hours, based on need, during post-season games, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority announced Thursday near Nationals Stadium. The games begin at 8 p.m., while Metro typically closes at 12 a.m. Sunday through Thursday nights and 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.
“We love D.C., we love the Metro and we love the Nats,” LivingSocial CEO Tim O’Shaughnessy said. “People won’t have to worry about how they’re getting home.”
Metro’s hours became a point of controversy following a 13-inning game against the Atlanta Braves Aug. 20 that ended past the the weekday closing time, leaving fans stranded at Nationals Stadium, according to WTOP.
“You can come to the games and be assured to stay as long as you like,” Gregory McCarthy, vice president of government and municipal affairs for the Nationals, said.