WMATA C81 Reroutes Around Kennedy Street Work

C81 bus route detours around Kennedy Street construction zone between 13th and 14th streets

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WMATA C81 Bus Detours on Kennedy Street June 30

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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 effect until further notice, though officials haven't announced when construction will be completed. Riders traveling to Fort Totten or Sibley Hospital should expect route changes and allow extra travel time.

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The construction work affects a one-block stretch of Kennedy Street NW, requiring buses to use alternate streets in the area. Transit agencies typically implement detours when roadwork blocks regular bus routes, rerouting vehicles to nearby parallel streets while maintaining access to key destinations. Officials said the detour aims to keep service running while construction crews complete work on the affected block. The agency updated the advisory Monday, April 13 at 3:30 PM, though officials didn't specify what type of construction is underway or which entity is performing the work.

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Eastbound C81 buses heading toward Fort Totten will detour via Military Road NW at 14th Street, then resume the regular route on Kennedy Street NW at Georgia Avenue. Westbound buses traveling to Sibley Hospital will detour on Kennedy Street NW at 5th Street, returning to the regular route on Military Road NW at 16th Street. Officials said passengers should allow additional travel time and avoid the construction area if possible. The detour affects service in both directions, though buses will continue serving major stops outside the construction zone.

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The detour takes effect June 30, 2025, and will continue until construction is completed. Officials haven't provided an estimated completion date or timeline for when buses will return to the regular Kennedy Street route. Transit agencies typically announce detour end dates once construction schedules are finalized, though timelines can shift based on weather, project complexity, and contractor progress.

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Riders can expect slightly longer travel times while buses navigate the detour route. Officials advised passengers to plan ahead and consider alternative routes if traveling through the affected area. Moovit provides real-time C81 bus tracking and detour updates to help riders adjust their trips during the construction period.