WMATA Adjusts C81 Service for Kennedy St Work

Two C81 bus stops on Kennedy Street NW close March 26 for construction work

2026-05-04, Moovit News Team

WMATA Closes C81 Bus Stops for Kennedy St Work

Two C81 bus stops on Kennedy Street NW will close for two months starting March 26 as construction work begins at 14th Street, transit officials said. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority confirmed the closure affects stops #1002607 and #1003004, with service continuing through May 26. Riders can use nearby alternate stops during the construction period.
WMATA C81 bus stopped at Kennedy Street NW bus stop with passengers waiting to board, urban street setting with construction barriers visible in background

Construction Project Prompts Service Adjustment

The temporary closure is necessary to accommodate construction work on Kennedy Street at 14th Street, according to WMATA. Transit agencies typically close stops near active construction zones to ensure passenger safety and allow contractors access to work areas. The two-month timeline suggests infrastructure improvements or utility work that requires street-level access. Officials didn't specify the exact nature of the construction project or which agency is managing the work.

Alternate Stops Available on Georgia Avenue

WMATA directed riders to use Kennedy Street NW & Georgia Avenue stops as alternatives during the closure. Eastbound passengers should use stop #1002602, while westbound travelers can board at stop #1002610, officials said. The alternate stops are located at Georgia Avenue, requiring riders to walk additional blocks from the closed 14th Street location. Officials didn't provide the exact walking distance between the closed stops and the temporary alternatives.

Two-Month Closure Runs Through Late May

The stop closure takes effect March 26, 2026, and continues until May 26, 2026, WMATA confirmed. The transit agency apologized for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure. Officials encouraged customers to sign up for MetroAlerts for service updates but didn't say whether they'll provide advance notice if the construction timeline changes or if stops reopen earlier than scheduled.

Riders Should Plan for Longer Walks

C81 passengers who regularly use the Kennedy Street at 14th Street stops will need to adjust their routines for the next two months. The shift to Georgia Avenue stops means additional walking time before and after bus trips. Moovit provides real-time C81 bus locations and alternate route options for WMATA riders affected by the temporary stop closure.