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The first phase of changes is slated to begin on October 1.
WASHINGTON — Attention, DC riders: As the DC Circulator fades away, Metrobus is gearing up to take over with improved routes and service. Discover how these upcoming changes will reshape your daily commute and what you can expect on your next ride.
Key Details of the Transition Plan
Starting October 1, the DC Circulator will begin a gradual phase-out, culminating in its complete discontinuation by the end of the year. To address the service gaps left by the circulator, WMATA will implement several Metrobus adjustments, with further changes planned through July 2025 when the new Better Bus Network is introduced.
Immediate Changes:
- October 2024: The Rosslyn-Dupont route will be eliminated. In response, Metrobus Route 38B will add service between Rosslyn and Farragut Square during peak weekend hours, aiming for 15-minute headways.
- December 2024:
- Union Station – Congress Heights: A new Anacostia shuttle will operate every 30 minutes to Stanton/Pomeroy Street.
- Woodley Park – McPherson: Routes 52/54 will enhance service on 14th Street NW between Colorado Avenue and Metro Center.
- Georgetown – Union Station: Routes 31 and 33 will merge into a single route along H and I Streets NW, extending to Union Station via New York and Massachusetts Avenues.
- L’Enfant – Eastern Market: No direct interim service adjustments are planned. Existing routes 74, P6, 90, and 92 will cover various segments of the route, with Metrorail also serving parts of the original Circulator route.
- National Mall: No interim service adjustments are proposed.
Cost and Implementation
The planned Metrobus adjustments are projected to cost approximately $10 million annually, significantly less than the $42 million expense of operating the circulator in 2022. This adjustment avoids over $200 million in capital investments required to maintain the circulator’s operations. The changes will utilize WMATA’s existing fleet, with final details and schedules subject to approval by the WMATA Board of Directors on Sept. 12.
Support for Employees and Riders
DDOT is actively working with RATP Dev, WMATA, and other transit agencies to assist DC Circulator employees through this transition. Eligible employees are encouraged to apply for Metrobus positions, with support provided to ensure a smooth job transition.
A virtual public meeting will be held later in September to present the final plans for the circulator’s closure and the new Metrobus service schedules. DC Circulator riders can use the Trip Planner feature on the WMATA website to explore alternative travel options.
Looking Ahead
The phase-out of the DC Circulator and the integration of its routes into the Metrobus system represent a significant shift in the District’s transit landscape. The temporary service adjustments are designed to address immediate needs while setting the stage for the comprehensive Better Bus Network redesign.
For ongoing updates and more information, riders can visit the WMATA website and the DC Circulator’s official site.
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