WASHINGTON — Soon, riders along Georgia Avenue could catch the bus any time of day.
On Thursday, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) revealed an ambitious bus plan for Georgia Avenue NW, the busiest bus corridor in the DMV. This project promises to transform the daily experience for thousands of bus riders who depend on the corridor's main routes, including Metrobus Routes 70 and 79. Among the most significant changes? Dedicated 24/7 bus lanes running the entire length of Georgia Avenue, designed to cut down on travel times, improve bus reliability, and enhance safety for both riders and pedestrians.
What's the big change?
The proposed 24/7 bus lanes would span the full 4.5-mile stretch of Georgia Avenue, from Barry Place near Howard University to Eastern Avenue, on the border with Maryland. These lanes, dedicated solely to buses, will mainly run in the second lane from the curb, keeping the first lane available for curbside loading and limited parking.
This change will mean faster bus commutes for the tens of thousands of riders who travel along this road every day. The concept also includes bus bulb-outs (extended sidewalks at bus stops) throughout the corridor to make boarding easier and safer, as well as a rebalancing of bus stops to enhance efficiency.
But it’s not just about speed. Georgia Avenue is also a Vision Zero high-crash corridor, so improving bus service and traffic flow is part of a broader effort to increase safety. Riders can expect fewer delays caused by traffic congestion, as the bus lanes will prioritize public transportation over personal vehicles.
Why is this important for riders?
For regular riders of Georgia Avenue’s buses, this proposal is a game-changer. Not only would the 24/7 bus lanes cut travel times and improve bus reliability, but the rebalancing of stops and installation of bus bulb-outs will also help speed up boarding and make stops safer for pedestrians.
This is especially critical for low-income residents and those without access to personal vehicles. By prioritizing bus travel, the DDOT project acknowledges that public transportation is more than just a convenience—it’s a lifeline. Reliable, efficient bus service is key to improving access to jobs, schools, healthcare, and other essential services for thousands of Washingtonians.
Community feedback and involvement
As with any major infrastructure project, community feedback will play a vital role in shaping the final design. DDOT is encouraging all residents who use Georgia Avenue, whether they’re bus riders or not, to attend one of the many open houses and pop-up events throughout October. These events will offer a chance to review the proposed changes, provide input, and ask questions directly to the planning team.
Here’s your chance to make your voice heard, whether it’s about specific changes to bus stops, potential traffic impacts, or ideas for improving pedestrian safety along the route. Feedback can also be submitted online through the project website or via email by November 15.
What comes next?
DDOT anticipates construction to begin in 2025 and continue into 2026. While disruptions during construction are inevitable, the long-term benefits of 24/7 bus lanes on Georgia Avenue could significantly reshape transportation in one of D.C.’s busiest corridors.
For those relying on public transportation, this proposal means a faster, safer, and more reliable bus experience. It’s a vital step toward creating a more equitable transit system that prioritizes the needs of everyday riders, and as the project continues to evolve, rider feedback will be crucial to its success.
Open house & pop-up schedule:
- October 2, 4:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: Shepherd Park/Thornton Library
- October 8, 4:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: Petworth Neighborhood Library
- October 12, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Uptown Farmers Market
- October 20, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Takoma Park Farmers Market
- October 24, 4:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: Shaw (Watha T. Daniel) Library
- October 26, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.: Petworth Farmers Market
Georgia Ave. project proposal
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