🏆 [PR] DPW is focusing on abandoned cars in Wards 7 + 8 this week

DPW Targets Abandoned Autos Where Requests are Highest

Friday, August 16, 2019

DPW is kicking off a citywide Abandoned Vehicle Blitz to address abandoned vehicles and other public nuisances starting this week.

(Washington, DC) - DPW is kicking off a citywide Abandoned Vehicle Blitz to address abandoned vehicles and other public nuisances starting this week. The pilot will begin in Wards 7 and 8, as data shows the majority of 311 requests for removal of abandoned vehicles comes from several locations in these wards. However, the initiative will eventually expand citywide.

“Vehicles left abandoned on District streets don’t only reduce the amount of available parking for residents, they are a harborage for rodents, criminal activity, and pose a risk to public health,” said DPW Director Chris Geldart. “Targeting streets where citizens request our assistance most will create a safer, healthier environment for those neighborhoods.”

An abandoned vehicle is any motor vehicle or trailer that is left, parked or stored on public space for more than 48 hours or on private property for more than 30 days, has excessive damage, appears inoperable, contains vermin or does not display valid tags/registration. 

DPW’s parking enforcement will increase ticketing and towing of vehicles abandoned on public streets in these areas. DPW Street & Alley crews will also provide street sweeping  as well as landscaping and grass cutting on public spaces with overgrowth. The increased services will continue in these areas as needed.

“We will continue to monitor these areas but I encourage residents to help us by calling 202-541-6083 or 311 and providing the make, model, color and tag information of abandoned vehicles,” said Geldart.  Residents can also visit 311.dc.gov.

DPW provides essential city services in two distinct program areas: environmental services/solid waste management and parking enforcement. Both contribute to making District streets and public spaces clean, safe, attractive and accessible for residents, businesses, commuters and visitors. For more information on DPW’s abandoned auto program, visit dpw.dc.gov.