DC Metro fires 20 managers in overhaul effort

The head of Washington’s Metrorail system fired 20 managers on Friday as part of an ongoing effort to overhaul the beleaguered transit agency, according to NBC news.

{mosads}An internal memo from General Manager Paul Wiedefeld, obtained by NBC News4, said “20 managers are being released from WMATA, including seven senior managers. More than one-third are from the rail side of the house. Others are in administrative areas, including procurement, for example.”

Wiedefeld said in the memo that he is “streamlining management to improve effectiveness and accountability,” and will not be commenting on individual employees who were let go.

“People have to be held accountable. The Metro General Manager has been urged to do that,” Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) said in a statement. “I hope this sends a signal across the entire Metro organization that safety and customer service must come first.”

The move comes just days after Metro finalized its massive, disruptive maintenance plan to repair the subway tracks and tackle other serious safety issues. The effort will start next month and affect nearly every rider.

More employees are expected to be fired, according to NBC.