Through the program, WMATA will mount cameras on 140 of its buses to capture video of vehicles that block bus lanes or zones. City officials say the effort will improve traffic and safety by reducing bus idle times and better allowing them to pull up to the curb for passenger entry and exit.
Vehicles that remain in the lanes or zones long-term will be towed.
The District has 12.7 miles of bus lanes where cars are not permitted, but transit users have long complained that cars and trucks have continued to block the lanes, slowing buses down. WMATA data shows that the average bus speed in D.C. is 9.8 miles per hour, a 9 percent decline from 15 years ago.
“In the District, Metrobus is the only mode of transportation for many people,” said Sherri Ly, a spokesperson for WMATA. “Keeping bus stop zones and bus lanes clear will improve the customer experience with faster, better, more reliable and equitable service.”
The fine was originally slated to be $200, but DDOT proposed changing it to address concerns that it would place an excessive burden on low-income drivers. The D.C. Council passed emergency legislation introduced by Council member Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) lowering the fine on Nov. 7. The $100 fine matches fines for parking at a bus stop.
DDOT has issued more than 48,000 warning notices for vehicles parked in a bus lane or zone since July, according to data provided by city officials.
Authorized vehicles — including school buses, emergency vehicles and accessible transportation service vehicles — as well as bikes and scooters will continue to be permitted in bus lanes.
Unauthorized vehicles can still enter bus lanes under specific situations, such as when parking, pulling over for an emergency vehicle, or turning within 40 feet of an intersection or driveway.