> when are they going to install automated gates on the platforms so people can't fall into the tracks?

It is interesting that you picked this one. For those unaware, in the busiest mass transit lines in East Asia, some countries and systems are slowly installing barrier gates to prevent accidental (and intentional) falls onto the tracks. To me, Japan is special because they are trying to reduce suicides when people throw themselves in front of oncoming trains. Is that really an issue on the DC metro? I doubt at even 10% the level of Japan. And accidental falls that result in serious injury are incredibly rare. One more thing to consider: These gates require maintenance, and a lot of it. Unless your system has world class maintenance (I really mean the "world class" bit), these gates will quickly become a nuscience and disabled.