D.C. Seeks to Launch ‘Rat Riddance’ Program on Barracks Row

D.C. is gearing up to take down some rats on Barracks Row.

Mayor Muriel Bowser, Department of Public Works Director Christopher Shorter and Department of Health Director LaQuandra Nesbitt will meet with Barracks Row business owners on Thursday to discuss launching a pilot rat abatement program in the area, the city announced today in a press release.

The meeting will be held in conjunction with Bowser’s District-wide spring cleaning campaign. Other efforts in that campaign include tree planting, waste disposal and a campaign to repair or renovate 64 alleys throughout the District.

Barracks Row has long had a problem with rodents. At least three Barracks Row restaurants — including Capitol Hill Tandoor & Grill, Pizza Boli’s and Banana Cafe — were temporarily closed due to pest problems last year.