WASHINGTON — When nature calls, D.C. now has an answer. The city started a pilot program to install free public restrooms throughout the city.
The council approved legislation in the fall of 2023 to set up at least five Throne Labs bathrooms in different D.C. neighborhoods.
Through a contract with Brentwood, Maryland-based company Throne Labs (which was established in 2020), they're putting these portable potties in Oxon Run Park, Columbia Heights, H Street NE, DuPont Circle, and Downtown DC.
“I’ve felt the stress of needing a bathroom and not knowing where to go in many cities, and DC leaders were among the earliest to talk inclusively about the need for bathrooms. We’re excited to join forces with the District to make meaningful progress towards better bathroom access," Throne Labs CEO Fletcher Wilson said in a press release.
The council approved legislation at the end of last year to install at least five, and up to 10, of these thrones throughout the city starting in March 2024.
The pilot program is slated to last through September 2024 (the end of the fiscal year), with the option to extend into 2025.
Councilmember Brianne Nadeau, who chairs the Public Works Committee and championed this pilot program, said in her latest April update, though, that the Mayor's Budget does not extend funding for the program into fiscal year 2025.
She said that she will push to change that, but right now -- there's no guarantee it will continue.
Throne Labs said that success will be measured through community surveys and data collected throughout the pilot period using metrics like average uses per day, user-generated cleanliness ratings, and uptime/availability.
Using the thrones is the easy part.
Users step up to the door, scan the QR code, and follow the instructions to open the door. They can also text a number or use the app to gain access.
For those without a phone, the company has partnered with local nonprofits to offer keycards.
Once inside, bathroom-goers will find a well-ventilated, wallpapered, and touchless space.
It's also equipped with a sink with running water and a toilet that can flush -- all without a sewer, water or electric hookup.
The thrones are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
If you want to provide feedback on where else they should be installed, click here.
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