WMATA Adjusts Four Routes for DC Event Saturday

Four WMATA bus routes to detour Saturday for street closures in Southwest, Southeast DC

2026-03-27, Moovit News Team

WMATA Reroutes Four Bus Lines Saturday for Event

Four WMATA bus routes will detour Saturday, March 28, for a special event affecting Southwest and Southeast Washington, DC, transit officials said. Routes C11, C31, C55, and D50 will operate on modified paths from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM due to multiple street closures. The detours will impact service to L'Enfant Plaza, Union Station, National Harbor, and Waterfront stations.

Street Closures Prompt Service Modifications

The detours stem from street closures along Howard Road SE, S Capitol Street SW, Potomac Avenue, and several other streets in the affected areas, according to WMATA. Transit agencies typically implement temporary route changes when special events require road closures that block regular bus paths. The modifications allow continued service while accommodating event logistics and ensuring passenger safety during high-traffic periods.
WMATA bus on city street in Washington DC with urban buildings in background

Different Start Times for Route Changes

Route C31 Minnesota Ave will operate between Capitol Heights and a bus stop at Anacostia Station throughout the entire detour period starting at 9:00 AM, officials said. Routes C11, C55, and D50 will begin their detours later at 2:00 PM and continue until 6:00 PM. The D50 route northbound towards 14th and Colorado Ave won't require a detour. Specific detour routes have been provided for each affected bus line in both northbound and southbound directions.

Event-Day Service Runs Nine Hours

The temporary service modifications will run from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, transit officials confirmed. WMATA encourages passengers to plan their trips accordingly and stay informed about service changes. The agency didn't specify what event is prompting the closures, though officials said riders should allow additional travel time and avoid the affected area if possible.
WMATA bus stop sign with route numbers in Washington DC neighborhood

Riders Advised to Plan Ahead

Passengers should expect longer travel times and consider alternate routes during the nine-hour detour period, officials said. WMATA provides real-time service alerts through its MetroAlerts system for riders who want updates on route changes. Moovit offers real-time bus tracking and alternate route suggestions for WMATA services throughout the Washington, DC area.