DC-Maryland-Virginia Buses Adapt to Winter Weather
DC-area buses reroute to 85th Avenue after ice makes Harkins Road unsafe for travel
DC-Area Buses Reroute from Harkins Road
Buses serving the DC-Maryland-Virginia metro area can't operate on Harkins Road due to icy conditions and are using 85th Avenue to reach the station instead, transit officials said. The reroute took effect February 1 to ensure passenger safety during hazardous winter weather. Riders who typically board along Harkins Road will need to use alternative stops, though officials didn't specify which stops remain accessible.
Safety Concerns Prompt Route Change
The decision to bypass Harkins Road came after dangerous ice accumulation made the road unsafe for bus travel, according to the transit agency. Officials are monitoring conditions closely and will restore normal routing once the road is safe for buses. Transit agencies typically reroute service during severe weather when roads become impassable or pose safety risks to passengers and operators. Officials didn't provide details on how many riders are affected by the change or how long the reroute might remain in effect.
Buses Access Station via 85th Avenue
Buses now reach the station using 85th Avenue instead of their usual Harkins Road route, officials confirmed. The agency didn't release information about whether service frequency has changed or if additional stops have been added along the alternate route. Officials said the reroute will remain in place until road conditions improve enough to safely resume normal operations. Specific criteria for when Harkins Road will be deemed safe for bus service weren't provided.
Timeline Depends on Weather Conditions
Normal routing will resume once ice clears from Harkins Road, transit officials said, though they haven't provided a specific timeline for when that might occur. The agency said it's monitoring conditions closely. Officials didn't say whether they're coordinating with local road maintenance crews or what temperature thresholds would trigger a return to normal service.
Riders Should Plan for Delays
Passengers who regularly use stops along Harkins Road should plan extra travel time and head to the 85th Avenue access point until normal service resumes, officials said. The agency didn't specify whether shuttle service or other accommodations are available for affected riders. Moovit provides real-time updates for DC-area transit routes, helping riders navigate service changes and find alternative connections during weather-related disruptions.
