7 Biggest Changes At The New Carrollton Parking Garage: What You Must Know For 2025
The New Carrollton Parking Garage, a critical component of the massive New Carrollton Multi-Modal Transportation Facility, has undergone a radical transformation, culminating in its full operational status in late 2025. This major expansion and modernization project by WMATA has fundamentally reshaped the commuter experience for Metrorail, MARC, and Amtrak users, introducing thousands of new spaces and a completely reconfigured transit hub.
As of December 22, 2025, commuters are fully navigating the new P1 and P2 parking garages. Understanding the latest capacity figures, operational hours, and crucial parking rules—especially the strict policies on overnight parking—is essential for anyone using this vital Prince George's County transportation nexus. Here are the seven biggest, most impactful changes you need to know now.
New Carrollton Multi-Modal Transportation Facility: A Comprehensive Overview
The New Carrollton Station is more than just a Metro stop; it is one of the region's largest and most crucial transit hubs, serving as a gateway for multiple transportation entities.
- Location: New Carrollton, Prince George's County, Maryland.
- Operators: WMATA (Metrorail and Metrobus), Amtrak, MARC Train Service, and Prince George's County TheBus.
- Original Garage (P2): The original New Carrollton Garage opened in December 1986, initially providing 1,036 spaces.
- Current Project: The recent expansion is part of a larger Joint Development initiative to create an urbanized town center and a walkable community around the transit hub.
- Goal: To modernize the facility and significantly increase commuter parking capacity to meet growing regional demand.
7 Major Changes Transforming the New Carrollton Parking Experience
The completion of the New Carrollton Joint Development project has introduced several significant operational and structural changes. These updates affect everything from where you park to how you access the bus loop.
1. Massive Increase in Total Parking Capacity
The single most significant change is the dramatic boost in available parking spaces. The New Carrollton Metro Station now boasts a total parking capacity of approximately 3,593 spaces.
This figure combines the newly constructed P1 Garage and the extensively upgraded P2 Garage. The expansion signals a major upgrade for one of Maryland's most critical transit centers, directly addressing years of commuter frustration over limited parking availability.
2. The Highly Anticipated P1 Garage Opening
The new P1 Parking Garage officially opened its doors on Sunday, April 27, 2025. This new structure immediately added 550 new parking spaces to the station’s inventory.
The P1 Garage is a modern, multi-story structure designed to improve flow and access, serving as a primary entry point for daily Metrorail riders.
3. The Reconfigured Bus Loop and Transit Access
Coinciding with the P1 Garage opening, the existing bus loop was relocated and reconfigured. The new bus loop is now situated on the first level of the P1 Garage.
This move integrates Metrobus, TheBus, and other local bus services directly into the parking facility, streamlining transfers for thousands of commuters and freeing up space for the larger joint development plaza.
4. The P2 Garage Modernization and Re-Opening Schedule
The original parking garage, now referred to as the P2 Garage, also underwent a comprehensive upgrade and re-opened to the public on Monday, September 8, 2025.
Furthermore, WMATA scheduled a brief but necessary roof rehabilitation project for the P2 Garage from December 8th to December 19, 2025. These upgrades ensure the older structure meets modern safety and operational standards, integrating seamlessly with the new P1 facility.
5. Clear and Consistent Daily Parking Rates
The parking facility operates under WMATA’s established rate structure, which offers a significant discount for Metrorail riders using a SmarTrip card.
- Metrorail Riders: The daily rate is $4.95 (Monday through Friday).
- Non-Riders: The all-day rate for those not using Metrorail is $8.95.
- Reserved Parking: Monthly reserved spaces are available for $45.
- Payment Methods: Payment is accepted via SmarTrip card or credit card only. Cash is not accepted at the facility.
6. Strict Enforcement of Overnight Parking Rules
A frequent point of confusion, particularly for Amtrak and MARC long-distance travelers, is the policy on overnight parking. The WMATA-operated New Carrollton Garages (P1 and P2) do not allow overnight parking.
This policy is strictly enforced. Commuters or travelers requiring multi-day parking must seek alternative, private parking facilities in the surrounding area, as parking vehicles overnight in the WMATA garages risks towing or ticketing.
7. Improved Wayfinding and Commuter Flow
The entire project was designed to improve commuter flow and reduce congestion. While the initial roll-out caused some confusion with new signage—leading some users to be temporarily redirected near apartment complexes—the completed facility features a more intuitive layout.
The new configuration separates the bus, Kiss & Ride, and long-term commuter parking traffic, aiming to create a smoother, more efficient experience for everyone using the Multi-Modal Transportation Facility.
Navigating the Future of New Carrollton Parking
The completion of the New Carrollton Parking Expansion is more than just a capacity increase; it's a foundational step in the broader vision for a transit-oriented, urbanized town center in Prince George's County. The integration of Metrorail, MARC, Amtrak, and local bus services into a modern, high-capacity hub positions New Carrollton as a critical interchange for the entire Washington Metropolitan Area.
Commuters should always check the latest WMATA MetroPulse alerts for real-time service information, especially regarding any minor maintenance or construction work, such as the recent P2 roof rehabilitation.
By understanding the new layout, the capacity figures (3,593 spaces), the specific opening dates (P1 on April 27, 2025), and the crucial rules (no overnight parking), you can ensure a hassle-free experience at this vastly improved transportation facility.
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