Frustration Grows Over New Bus Stop Placement on Nebraska Avenue

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new bus stop location on Nebraska Avenue has stirred frustration among drivers and residents alike, with many questioning the logic behind its placement.

A reader reached out to PoPville, voicing concern over a newly relocated bus stop positioned directly in the right-turn-only lane on eastbound Nebraska Avenue, just before the intersection with Military Road. The issue? Buses occupying the lane are stopping traffic trying to make a right turn — despite a green arrow allowing the turn.

“When there’s a green turn arrow to turn onto Military, but the bus is in front of you needing to go straight — URGH,” the reader wrote. “I know it’s not the bus driver’s fault, but I was irate at the situation.”

The problem, according to residents, lies not with the drivers but with poor urban planning and traffic design, which seem to have overlooked the flow of high-volume intersections. With buses stopping to pick up or drop off passengers in a lane meant only for turning, multiple cars are being held up unnecessarily, especially during peak hours.

Not an Isolated Incident

This isn’t the first complaint of its kind. The District’s recent overhaul of bus routes and stop placements, part of WMATA’s effort to optimize service, has led to several new stop configurations that are leaving drivers scratching their heads.

While the intention behind reworking the bus system may have been to improve efficiency and access, the execution has raised questions about traffic safety, congestion, and coordination with existing road infrastructure.

What Can Be Done?

Residents are urging WMATA and DDOT to re-evaluate bus stop placements, particularly those that interfere with traffic flow. Suggestions include:

Moving the stop further back before the intersection
Installing clear signage to warn drivers ahead of time
Creating bus pull-off bays where feasible

In the meantime, drivers are advised to remain patient and allow for delays while adjustments are considered.

Anyone else noticing questionable new bus stop locations around the city? Let city planners and transportation agencies know — your feedback could help avoid further frustration on the roads.