As Washington, D.C. prepares to observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day on October 14, several services and operations will be affected across the city. This holiday will bring a range of changes that residents should be aware of to ensure a smooth day.
Transportation Changes
In an effort to accommodate the holiday, the D.C. Department of Transportation (DDOT) will suspend reversible lane operations city-wide. Notable affected areas include Canal Road between Chain Bridge and Foxhall Road NW, Rock Creek Parkway, and 16th Street NW between Irving Street and Arkansas Avenue NW. For those relying on public transport, the DC Streetcar will maintain its regular schedule, while the DC Circulator will operate on a phased-elimination schedule. It’s advisable for riders to check the respective websites for the latest updates.
Construction Restrictions
The Department of Buildings (DOB) has announced a halt on all construction activities on Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Without an issued after-hours permit, any construction work carried out will be subject to a Stop Work Order. Residents can report illegal construction activities via the Illegal Construction Inspection Request Form or by calling 311.
Parking Enforcement
On October 14, parking enforcement will be suspended, providing relief for drivers; however, exceptions include Streetcar ticketing and towing, which will continue. Normal enforcement activities will resume the following day.
Closures Across Various Departments
DC Public Schools (DCPS) will be closed on Monday and will resume classes on Tuesday. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will close all recreation centers, community centers, and aquatic facilities.
Department of Human Services service centers will be unavailable. Health services, including the DC Health & Wellness Center and various divisions within DC Health, will also be closed, although some online services will remain accessible.
All DMV locations will be shut down, with normal operations expected to resume on October 15. The Department of Employment Services and associated job centers will not be open, but residents can file unemployment claims online.
Support Services for Homeless Residents
Several drop-in centers for youth and residents experiencing homelessness, such as the Sasha Bruce Youth Drop-In Center and the Latin American Youth Center, will close for the day, limiting access to vital services.
As Indigenous Peoples’ Day approaches, it’s important for D.C. residents to plan accordingly, taking note of these changes to avoid any disruptions.
