Beyoncé’s Tour Paid $100,000 to Extend DC Metro Hours After Weather Delayed Show
Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” tour took an extraordinary step to ensure the convenience and safety of concert-goers by paying $100,000 to keep all 98 Metro stations in the Washington, DC, area open for an additional hour. The decision came after Sunday’s show at the outdoor FedExField venue experienced delays due to heavy rain and lightning, as reported in a news release by the transit authority.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority issued a statement, saying, “Due to inclement weather that may delay the start of tonight’s Renaissance World Tour at FedExField, Metro will extend the last train by an extra hour beyond the extended closing previously announced. The additional hour will be funded by the Tour to cover the $100,000 cost to run more trains, keep all 98 stations open for customers to exit, and other operational expenses.”
The situation unfolded when the stadium issued a shelter-in-place notice, citing lightning in the area, before giving fans the green light for the show to proceed. The delay left fans waiting in hot and humid conditions as they eagerly awaited updates.
CNN affiliate WJLA reported that during the nearly two-hour wait, several people were treated for heat exhaustion, and one person was hospitalized. The chaotic and confusing situation inside the stadium prompted concert-goers to share their experiences of the evening.
CNN’s Abby Phillip, among the fans at the venue, described the scene as uncomfortable and frightening. “It was one of those moments where it was a great concert, but that experience was a little bit scary. No one seemed to really know what the plan should be.”
The rain fell heavily between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., with the heaviest downpours occurring between 9:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., according to CNN meteorologist Rob Shackelford. The weather conditions raised concerns for more than 120 million people in the Eastern US, who were at risk of severe thunderstorms, while heat waves continued to impact the South.
Beyoncé’s decision to fund the extended Metro service demonstrates her commitment to her fans’ well-being and adds to the growing list of memorable moments from her “Renaissance” tour.
The tour has already been celebrated for its exceptional performances and dedication to providing an extraordinary experience for concert-goers across the country.
