Recent Posts
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Ward 7 needs better bus service
To many living in DC, Ward 7 is that nebulous place somewhere East of the Anacostia River. What many people do not realize is that Ward 7 is a collection of distinct neighborhoods, commercial areas ripe for redevelopment, and large areas of open space. Despite all that Ward 7 has to offer, we only have three Metrorail stops, making the bus system our transportation lifeline. If you… Keep reading…
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Dupont tunnels likely to contain arts and a winery
The Arts Coalition for the Dupont Underground, which seeks to develop the old trolley tunnels into arts space, is the only eligible bidder and will likely soon begin lease negotiations, representatives from the coalition announced last night. Besides including arts space, they hope to include a restaurant and winery. The coalition will seek a 50- or 100-year lease on the space… Keep reading…
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Should DC restrict shelters to DC residents?
Councilmember Tommy Wells introduced legislation Tuesday that would ensure only families with DC residency can receive Family Emergency Shelter in DC. He also withdrew the emergency legislation that he had previously proposed, a change which will allow for public input and debate prior to a vote. In a phone interview Tuesday morning, Wells’ Chief of Staff Charles… Keep reading…
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Breakfast links: More ups and downs
Two slots at DCA up for grabs; Virginia to raise speed limits; Height debate continued; Gray softens on lower parking rates; Bethesda escalator repair nears end; Arlington Trader Joe’s to get parking; L’Enfant Plaza-Future Banneker Memorial Station?; Is there an answer to gentrification?; And…. Keep reading…
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What would make Connecticut Avenue safer for pedestrians?
Bulb-outs, elimination of slip lanes, introduction of Leading Pedestrian Intervals, left-turn restrictions, raised crosswalks and improved visibility at crosswalks are some of the many pedestrian safety recommendations from a recent audit of upper Connecticut Avenue. IONA Senior Services and Murch Elementary’s Safe Routes to School Program partnered to create… Keep reading…
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DDOT releases streetcar plan; trains will run in March 2012
In March 2012, streetcars will glide along H Street NE, according to the Streetcar System Plan DDOT released yesterday. The plan details alignment, fares, and operation logistics for the system’s two initial segments: the H Street/Benning Road segment and the Anacostia Initial Line Segment (suffering the unfortunate acronym “AILS”). For… Keep reading…
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Changing Height Act not biggest priority, speakers argue
Does the 1910 Height Act enhance or detract from Washington’s livability? This debate goes to the heart of the tension between the nation’s desire for an attractive and symbolic capital and the interests of those who call the city home, now and in the future. The District’s 1972 Home Rule Charter lists building height amongst ten issue areas that the District… Keep reading…
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DDOT now has a Complete Streets policy
On Monday, DDOT Director Gabe Klein signed a Complete Streets policy. The policy, effective immediately, states in part that DDOT projects “shall accommodate the safety and convenience of all users.” When it comes to DDOT projects, bicyclists and pedestrians are now officially on equal footing with other modes. Please thank Director Klein, Mayor Fenty and Council… Keep reading…
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DC strikes out on TIGER II
The USDOT just announced TIGER II winners. The Washington metropolitan area got nothing this round, including expanding Capital Bikeshare, streetcar projects, or the Union Station expanded mezzanine. Keep reading…
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NPS, Secret Service close to approving 15th Street bike lane
DDOT could start extending the 15th Street bike lane as early as Friday, DCist reported yesterday. By the time construction gets down to the White House area, DDOT believes they will have final approvals from the Park Service and Secret Service for the segments around Lafayette Park and the White House. The new lanes will extend the current 15th Street bike lane south to E Street,… Keep reading…