Metrorail is trying to accommodate shorter passengers by installing overhead handles on some trains.

Jessica Forres reports...

Metro’s Senior Program manager Jeff Pringle tours one of nearly 300 metro cars where new overhead handles will be installed and tested.

PRINGLE: IT’S EXCITING BECAUSE WE ARE GOING TO TRY AND GIVE SOME OF THE PEOPLE THAT ARE VERTICALLY CHALLENGED ANOTHER LOCATION TO HOLD ON TO.

It’s hard to believe Pringle….whose head grazes the ceiling when he walks down the metro car…is so passionate about the three handle designs made of nylon fabric, vinyl and spring-loaded stainless steel.

PRINGLE: WELL I THINK IT WAS NEEDED WE HEARD FROM PEOPLE WHEN WE REMOVED THE CENTER POLE FROM THE 6,000 SERIES THEY WANTED MORE HAND HOLDS.

But one metro rider Rosa Zulu...who is 5’3…says the hanging straps could be dangerous.

IT’S NOT A GOOD IDEA NO NOT AT ALL… JUST IN CASE DURING RUSH HOUR IT’S ALL PACKED AND THE TRAIN BREAKS AND PEOPLE USUALLY MOVE FORWARD BUT IT’S EASIER AND THE STRAPS MAY BREAK AND SOMEBODY FALLS.

Pringle says the new handles will cost about $500 dollars per rail car.

LISTEN TO THE STORY THAT AIRED ON WAMU 88.5 NEWS