ARLINGTON, Va. – As the region continues to emerge from the pandemic and more patrons participate in nightlife activities, Arlington County is reminding the public about designated weekend pick-up and drop-off zones in Clarendon. The zones, first launched in May 2018, are designed to facilitate safe travel options and aim to curb illegal practices, such as double parking and stopping in travel lanes, bus stops, bike lanes and crosswalks, to load and unload passengers.
The designated drop-off and pick-up zones in Clarendon will be enforced between Friday and Sunday nights from the hours of 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. Zone areas are:
- North Highland Street between Wilson Boulevard and 11th Street North; enforced Friday – Sunday
- Clarendon Boulevard between North Highland Street and Washington Boulevard; enforced Friday – Sunday
Motorists should be on the lookout for ‘No Parking Except 5 Minute Passenger Pick Up and Drop Off’ signs. The Arlington County Police Department will strictly enforce the regulations. A one-week warning period is planned to help the public refamiliarize themselves with the zones, however, vehicles parked in the zone may be ticketed or towed. This is a joint safety project between Arlington County’s Department of Environmental Services (DES) and the Arlington County Police Department.
Tips for a Safe Night Out
The Arlington Restaurant Initiative wants patrons to have a safe night out. Consider these safety tips when enjoying Arlington’s nightlife:
- Before going out, plan a sober ride home – such as a designated sober driver, rideshare or public transportation
- Consume alcohol responsibly and know your limits
- Have a fully charged phone and save important contact numbers
- Go to places in groups and stay together
- Cross the street at marked crosswalks and never against a red light
- Follow the direction of restaurant and security staff
- Fighting and physical altercations are never the correct answer, walk away and seek assistance, if needed
- Know where you can find help if you need it. Arlington County Police have a designated detail of officers in nightlife areas on weekend nights.
- Be mindful of the residential neighborhood around you – do not scream or yell outside and always pick up your trash
About the Arlington Restaurant Initiative
In an effort to increase safety for patrons and to provide restaurant owners and staff, as well as special event staff, with resources to maximize their safety and viability, the Arlington County Police Department has partnered with County agencies to establish the Arlington Restaurant Initiative (ARI). The goal of ARI is to raise the standards of restaurants that serve alcohol, streamline processes within the County Government and maintain Arlington County as a safe destination for nightlife and entertainment. Contact members of the Arlington Restaurant Initiative at [email protected] or 703-228-7423.
