I'm also a DC area resident and I agree with your analysis. Fortunately, I have an easy commute out here in the suburbs and use Metro mostly on weekends and eve

I'm also a DC area resident and I agree with your analysis. Fortunately, I have an easy commute out here in the suburbs and use Metro mostly on weekends and evenings for non-work trips. But even then, there are times I drive in because it can be quicker and the trains run so infrequently at night that it can take a long time to get home. I like a lot about the Metro, but the maintenance issue has become a serious burden. And I agree that the multi-jurisdiction issue is a big part of the problem.