The annual D.C. Bike Ride is scheduled for Saturday, drawing thousands of cyclists to the city’s streets and prompting significant traffic disruptions across key routes. The event, which offers residents and visitors a scenic, leisurely ride through iconic city landmarks, will involve extensive road and ramp closures from early Saturday morning through late morning.
Beginning Friday evening, critical thoroughfares including Pennsylvania Avenue, Constitution Avenue, and 6th Street NW near the National Mall were closed at 6 p.m. These closures will remain in effect until 5 p.m. Saturday, to accommodate preparatory activities and safety measures.
On Saturday, cyclists will set off at 7:30 a.m., with road restrictions intensifying as the event progresses. Major streets such as Constitution Avenue NW, 12th Street NW, 10th Street NW, and 9th Street NW will be restricted as early as 3 a.m. The closures expand further at 6 a.m., affecting vital corridors including 14th Street NW, Independence Avenue SW, Ohio Drive SW, Rock Creek Parkway, and the Arlington Memorial Bridge.
During the ride, routes over the Potomac River—namely the Freeway, Whitehurst Freeway, and the 14th Street Bridge—will be closed, along with ramp closures on I-395 near Pentagon City, Maine Avenue SW, and the 12th Street Expressway. Most of these closures are expected to last until late morning, with some streets reopening around 9:30 a.m., while others, such as Independence Avenue SW and 3rd Street SW, will remain closed until after noon.
Drivers are advised to avoid the affected areas and seek alternative routes. Public transportation options, including Metro services, will operate normally, with event organizers urging participants and spectators to favor public transit for convenience and safety.
Key closure times include:
– Friday 6 p.m. to Saturday 5 p.m. for Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Constitution Avenue NW, and 6th Street NW.
– Early Saturday from 3 a.m. to 10 a.m. for sections of Constitution Avenue NW and 12th, 10th, and 9th Streets NW.
– Saturday morning from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. for parts of Independence Avenue SW.
Additional extended closures affecting bridges, parkways, and expressways will conclude by early to mid-morning, ensuring minimal disruption after peak hours. Notably, ramp closures on I-395, including those near Pentagon City and the southbound HOV lanes, are scheduled from 6 a.m. to noon.
This coordinated effort underscores the city’s commitment to hosting large-scale events safely while managing traffic flow effectively. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and stay informed about real-time updates to avoid inconvenience during this prominent cycling event.