D.C. Streetcar Ends: Impact on Sustainable Transport & MetroBus

Introduction

The District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) announced on Tuesday that the D.C. Streetcar service, which launched in 2016 and currently operates along a 2.2-mile route, will cease operations on March 31, 2026, a year ahead of the original schedule.

Service Termination

The D.C. Streetcar service is being discontinued. The decision follows years of low ridership on the single-line route.

Route Details

The streetcar line runs along the city’s H Corridor.

Replacement Plans

In May, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser indicated the streetcar’s replacement would be an electric bus. This bus would utilize the existing overhead wires that currently power the streetcar. The transition is projected to be completed by either late 2028 or mid-2029.

Alternative Transportation

The DDOT is working with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority MetroBus to ensure alternative transportation options are available for current streetcar riders along the corridor.

Conclusion

The D.C. Streetcar service will end on March 31, 2026, and will be replaced by an electric bus between late 2028 and mid-2029. The DDOT and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority MetroBus are collaborating to provide alternative transportation options.

Company Summary

District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT): The DDOT is responsible for the D.C. Streetcar service and is coordinating its termination and replacement.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority MetroBus: MetroBus is working with the DDOT to provide alternative transportation options.