WMATA C81 Detours Around Kennedy Street Work

WMATA C81 bus detours around Kennedy Street construction zone starting June 30

WMATA C81 Bus Detours on Kennedy Street June 30

WMATA's C81 bus route will detour around Kennedy Street NW starting June 30 due to construction between 13th and 14th streets, transit officials said. The detour will remain in place until further notice, though officials haven't specified when construction will be completed. Riders should expect route changes in both directions and allow extra travel time.

Construction Requires Route Modifications

The construction work on Kennedy Street NW requires buses to take alternate routes to maintain service to the area, according to WMATA. The agency typically implements detours when street work blocks regular bus paths, ensuring riders can still reach their destinations. Officials said the changes affect a one-block section of Kennedy Street between 13th and 14th streets. The advisory was last updated Monday, April 13 at 3:30 PM, though specific details about the construction project's scope weren't provided.

Detour Routes Vary by Direction

Eastbound C81 buses traveling toward Fort Totten will detour via Military Road NW at 14th Street, then resume the regular route on Kennedy Street NW at Georgia Avenue, officials said. Westbound buses heading toward Sibley Hospital will detour on Kennedy Street NW at 5th Street, resuming the regular route on Military Road NW at 16th Street. The detours add several blocks to each direction's route. Officials haven't said whether the changes will affect scheduled arrival times at stops along the route.

Changes Take Effect June 30

The detour takes effect June 30, 2025, and will continue until further notice, according to WMATA. Officials haven't announced when the construction work is expected to be completed or when regular service will resume. The agency advised passengers to allow additional travel time and avoid the area if possible during the detour period.

Riders Should Plan for Delays

Passengers using the C81 route should expect longer travel times and plan accordingly, transit officials said. The detour affects service in both directions along Kennedy Street NW. Moovit provides real-time updates for WMATA routes, helping riders track buses and adjust their trips during the construction period.