(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is now in the process of changing out the 23 track drain systems along the existing streetcar tracks on Firth Sterling Avenue and South Capitol Street.

The replacement drains will better accommodate cyclist who will use this route. The work is anticipated to run through February 2, 2012.

The work is generally being performed in a "moving operation" during non-peak hours from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. The following lane shifts and closures will be required to execute this work in a safe manner

• On-going through Tuesday, January 24 from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm (each day)
  Temporary lane shifts along northbound Firth Sterling Avenue, SE between South Capitol Street and Suitland Parkway
• Wednesday, January 25 through Thursday, February 2 from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm (each day)
  Temporary lane shifts along southbound Firth Sterling Avenue, SE between South Capitol Street and Suitland Parkway
• 10 am Friday, January 27 through 10 am Monday, January 30
  Lane closure of outside northbound lane on Firth Sterling Avenue, SE between South Capitol Street and Stevens Road, SE
• Thursday, February 2 from 9:30 am to 12 pm
  Temporary lane shift in the intersection of South Capitol Street and Firth Sterling Avenue, SE on South Capitol Street

Variable Message Boards will be in place to alert travelers in this corridor of all lane closures.

DDOT encourages all motorists to stay alert while traveling through this work zone.