D.C. sees boosted Metro use and office entry, driven by federal return-to-office orders. Metro trips climbed 12% yearly, with peak days hitting records. Office buildings now hold 52.8% of pre-pandemic occupancy. While federal policies push in-person work, full staffing lags; Education hits 70%, EPA sets return dates. Yet, federal job cuts threaten these gains. Transit safety upgrades are urged as commuter numbers rise.