WMATA Adjusts D44 Stops for Bike Lane Project
WMATA closes two D44 bus stops at Grant Circle May 4, 2026 for protected bike lanes
WMATA Closes D44 Stops at Grant Circle May 4
Two bus stops serving WMATA's Route D44 at Grant Circle NW at Varnum St will permanently close May 4, transit officials said. Both the northbound stop (ID #1002375) and southbound stop (ID #1002383) are being eliminated due to the District Department of Transportation's Protected Bike Lane Project. The closure affects riders traveling along New Hampshire Avenue in Northwest Washington.
Bike Lane Project Drives Infrastructure Changes
The stop closures are part of DDOT's ongoing Protected Bike Lane Project, which aims to improve cyclist safety along major corridors in the District of Columbia. Transit agencies frequently adjust bus stop locations to accommodate infrastructure improvements, including protected bike lanes that require dedicated street space. The project reflects broader efforts to balance multiple transportation modes in urban environments. Officials said the permanent nature of the closure indicates the bike lane infrastructure will occupy the space previously used for bus stops.
Four Alternative Stops Available Nearby
WMATA has designated four alternative stops for affected riders. Northbound passengers can use stops at New Hampshire Ave NW at Webster St (ID #1002399) or at Upshur St (ID #1002360). Southbound riders have access to stops at New Hampshire Ave NW at Webster St (ID #1002406) or at Upshur St (ID #1002357). All four alternative stops are located along New Hampshire Avenue within walking distance of the closed Grant Circle location. Officials didn't specify the exact distances between the closed stops and their replacements.
Change Takes Effect in Spring 2026
The permanent closure takes effect May 4, 2026, and will remain in place indefinitely. WMATA typically provides advance notice of stop changes through its MetroAlerts system and signage at affected locations. Officials said passengers should plan trips accordingly and allow extra time to reach the alternative stops, though they didn't specify how much additional travel time might be needed.
Riders Should Plan for Stop Location Changes
Route D44 passengers who regularly use the Grant Circle stops should familiarize themselves with the alternative stop locations before May 4. WMATA recommends riders sign up for MetroAlerts to receive service updates, though officials didn't say whether additional notifications will be sent as the closure date approaches. Moovit provides real-time bus locations and updated stop information for WMATA routes throughout the Washington metro area.
