WMATA Adjusts C21, C53 Stops for Development
WMATA relocates C21, C53 bus stops on Alabama Ave SE starting May 4 for development projects
WMATA Moves C21, C53 Stops on Alabama Ave SE
Two Washington Metro bus stops will permanently relocate on Alabama Ave SE at 13th St starting Monday, May 4, affecting riders on the C21 and C53 routes. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority announced the changes to accommodate two major development projects in the area. Both northbound and southbound stops will shift to new locations, with the northbound stop moving 100 feet east and the southbound stop relocating 280 feet west of their current positions.
Development Projects Drive Stop Changes
The relocations are necessary to make way for the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Library Project and the St. Elizabeth East Project, according to WMATA. Transit agencies typically coordinate with city development offices when infrastructure projects require changes to bus stop locations. The permanent nature of these relocations reflects the long-term scope of the development work in the area. Officials said the new stop locations will remain in place once construction is complete, rather than reverting to their original positions.
Specific Stop Location Details
The northbound stop at Alabama Ave SE at 13th St, identified as Stop ID #1003320, will move to the right side of the gray bus shelter at its new location 100 feet east. The southbound stop, Stop ID #1003588, will shift 280 feet west from its current position. WMATA provided the specific stop identification numbers to help riders locate the correct boarding areas. The agency said both stops will feature standard signage and shelter amenities at their new locations, though officials didn't specify whether additional seating or weather protection will be added.
Changes Take Effect May 4
The stop relocations take effect Monday, May 4, 2026, with the advisory period running through July 4, 2026. WMATA said passengers using the C21 and C53 routes should plan accordingly and allow extra time for their trips as they adjust to the new stop locations. The agency encourages riders to sign up for MetroAlerts for service information, though officials didn't specify how far in advance signage will be posted at the current stop locations to notify riders of the upcoming changes.
What Riders Need to Know
Passengers should look for the relocated stops beginning May 4 and may need a few extra minutes to reach the new boarding locations. The northbound stop's 100-foot eastward move and the southbound stop's 280-foot westward shift mean riders will need to adjust their walking routes to reach the stops. Moovit provides real-time bus locations and updated stop information for WMATA's C21 and C53 routes, helping riders navigate the changes. Officials said the permanent relocations will improve coordination between transit service and the area's ongoing development.
