The DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) is planning to expand its car-free lanes meant for buses and bikes into three more locations soon, according to a statement by the agency and Mayor Muriel Bowser.
The red bus lane pilot is growing as part of the city’s COVID-19 response and recovery.
“The three quick-build bus priority projects allow for rapid implementation from DDOT’s list of bus priority corridors, require minimal design, and help address current and future needs for Metrobus and Circulator service,” DDOT said in its statement.
“Dedicated, car free lanes will allow WMATA and Circulator to efficiently operate as the District enters Phase Two of reopening, helping to reduce passenger crowding and maintain safe distancing on buses. Bicyclists are permitted to use car free lanes, helping to reduce crowding on sidewalks.”
Speaking about the move, Bowser said “We know that dedicated bus lanes make public transportation more efficient and reliable. As we continue reimagining public spaces, these lanes will help us encourage bus and bicycle travel, reduce traffic, and build a greener DC.”
The lanes that will be designated by red paint will be installed at the following locations beginning in late July are as follows:
- 7th Street, NW between Massachusetts Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. This location will be restricted to buses, bicycles, and trucks 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE between W Street, SE and St. Elizabeth’s East Campus. This location will be a northbound bus lane during the morning rush hour between 7 am and 9:30 am and a southbound bus lane during the evening rush hour between 4 pm and 6:30 pm.
- M Street, SE between 10th Street and Half Street, SE. This location will have bus lanes operating in both directions during the morning rush hour between 7 am and 9:30 am and during the evening rush hour between 4 pm and 6:30 pm.