WMATA Adjusts Bus Stops for Construction Work

WMATA relocates two Alabama Ave SE bus stops starting May 4, 2026 due to construction

WMATA Moves Bus Stops on Alabama Ave SE May 4

Two bus stops on Alabama Avenue SE at 13th Street will relocate starting May 4, 2026, affecting riders on routes C21 and C53, transit officials said. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority announced the changes will include a temporary westbound stop relocation lasting through May 2028 and a permanent eastbound stop move. The modifications stem from construction work in the area, though officials didn't specify the project details.

Construction Drives Two-Year Temporary Change

The westbound stop relocation addresses construction needs along the corridor, according to the transit agency. WMATA typically relocates stops when roadwork or development projects affect existing infrastructure, ensuring continued service while maintaining safety standards. The two-year duration for the temporary westbound change suggests substantial construction activity, though the agency hasn't released details about the specific project driving the relocation. The permanent eastbound move indicates long-term changes to the street configuration in the area.

Stops Move 280 Feet West and 100 Feet East

Beginning Monday, May 4, 2026, through Thursday, May 4, 2028, westbound riders will board approximately 280 feet west of the current location, across 13th Street near the Whitman-Walker Max Robinson Center. The eastbound stop permanently relocates about 100 feet east toward Bard High School Early College starting the same date. Both routes C21 and C53 will serve the new stop locations. Officials said the temporary westbound stop returns to its original location when construction concludes in May 2028.

Changes Take Effect in Early May 2026

Both relocations begin simultaneously on Monday, May 4, 2026, according to WMATA. The permanent eastbound stop change takes effect immediately on that date, while the temporary westbound relocation remains in place until Thursday, May 4, 2028. Officials haven't said whether additional service modifications will accompany the stop relocations or if travel times on the affected routes will change during the construction period.

Riders Should Check for Updated Stop Locations

Passengers on routes C21 and C53 should look for new stop locations starting May 4, with westbound riders walking an additional block west and eastbound riders traveling slightly farther east. WMATA encourages customers to sign up for MetroAlerts for service updates. Moovit provides real-time bus locations and updated stop information for WMATA routes throughout the Washington metropolitan area, helping riders navigate temporary and permanent stop changes.