WMATA Adjusts D44 Stops for Bike Lane Expansion
WMATA closes two D44 bus stops at Grant Circle NW on May 4 for bike lane project
WMATA Closes D44 Stops at Grant Circle May 4
Route D44 riders will need to use different bus stops starting May 4 when WMATA permanently closes two stops at Grant Circle NW at Varnum St. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority announced the closure affects both the northbound stop (ID #1002375) and southbound stop (ID #1002383). The closures are part of the District Department of Transportation's Protected Bike Lane Project.
Bike Lane Project Drives Infrastructure Change
The permanent stop closures stem from DDOT's ongoing Protected Bike Lane Project, which aims to improve cyclist safety and expand protected bike infrastructure throughout the District of Columbia. Transit agencies often relocate or close bus stops when roadway configurations change to accommodate new bike lanes, pedestrian improvements, or traffic flow modifications. WMATA said the closures are part of broader infrastructure improvements in the area. Officials didn't specify whether additional stops along the D44 route might be affected by future phases of the bike lane project.
Four Alternative Stops Available Nearby
WMATA identified four alternative stops for displaced riders. Northbound D44 passengers can use stops at New Hampshire Ave NW at Webster St (ID #1002399) or New Hampshire Ave NW at Upshur St (ID #1002360). Southbound riders have access to stops at New Hampshire Ave NW at Webster St (ID #1002406) and New Hampshire Ave NW at Upshur St (ID #1002357). The agency encouraged customers to use these nearby alternatives for boarding and exiting buses, though officials didn't provide walking distance estimates from the closed stops to the replacement locations.
Closure Takes Effect May 4
The permanent closure takes effect May 4, 2026, and will remain in place indefinitely. WMATA said passengers should plan their trips accordingly and allow extra time to reach the alternative bus stops. The agency recommends riders sign up for MetroAlerts to receive service information and updates, though officials didn't specify how far in advance they'll notify riders about the change.
Riders Should Plan for Stop Changes
D44 passengers who regularly use the Grant Circle stops should familiarize themselves with the alternative stop locations before May 4 to avoid service disruptions. Those traveling to time-sensitive appointments or work should allow additional walking time to reach the replacement stops. Moovit provides real-time bus locations and updated stop information for WMATA routes, helping riders navigate service changes and find the nearest alternative stops.
