WMATA C63 Reroutes Around Franklin Street Work

Westbound C63 buses detour via South Dakota Avenue through May 15 due to Franklin Street closure

WMATA C63 Bus Detours on Franklin St Through May

Riders on WMATA's westbound C63 bus route face detours through mid-May as construction closes Franklin Street NE between 20th and 22nd streets. The detour began immediately and will continue through Friday, May 15, 2026, transit officials said. Eastbound C63 service toward Deanwood won't be affected by the construction work.

Construction Impacts Westbound Service Only

The construction project affects only westbound C63 buses traveling toward Georgia Avenue, according to WMATA. Transit officials said the work requires a temporary closure of Franklin Street NE in the construction zone. The agency didn't provide details about the nature of the construction project or which contractor is performing the work. WMATA typically schedules street-level construction during periods that minimize rider impact, though officials acknowledged passengers should expect delays.

Buses Reroute via South Dakota Avenue

Westbound C63 buses will detour onto South Dakota Avenue NE at Vista Street, then resume their regular route on Franklin Street NE at 15th Street, transit officials said. The detour adds approximately four blocks to the affected portion of the route. Officials didn't specify how much additional travel time riders should expect, but advised passengers to allow extra time during the construction period. The eastbound route toward Deanwood continues to operate on its normal path without changes.

Detour Runs Through Mid-May

The temporary route change took effect immediately upon announcement and will remain in place through May 15, 2026, according to WMATA. Officials didn't say whether the construction timeline could extend beyond that date or if weather delays might affect the schedule. The agency encourages riders to sign up for MetroAlerts to receive updates about service changes and potential timeline adjustments.

Riders Advised to Plan Extra Time

Passengers traveling westbound on the C63 should allow additional time for their trips during the construction period, transit officials said. WMATA advised riders to avoid the construction area if possible when planning their routes. Moovit provides real-time updates for C63 service, including detour information and adjusted arrival times at affected stops along Franklin Street NE.