Public Policy
The many local governments in the Washington region take actions every day that affect our downtowns and neighborhoods and the quality of life in our cities and counties. Greater Greater Washington writes about the public policies that influence our region and how they promote (or prevent) a growing, inclusive region with walkable urban neighborhoods.
Many different types of public policy influence where and how people live, work, and play. Education, which is one of the biggest reasons people choose a place,can help ensure the success of the next generation. And the environment is vital to preserving a livable region for our descendants.
Public safety and social justice issues affect how people of different backgrounds interact in our public places and whether people feel welcome. Health, food, and jobs are all vital parts of making our region thrive. And our governments make many budgetary and fiscal decisions that shape all of this.
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Breakfast links: Latest WMATA budget avoids ‘transit death spiral,’ includes fewer cuts, fare hikes
New WMATA budget is better, still not great. Prince George’s County to spend $11 million for a safer Route 1 corridor. Maryland legislators considering networked geothermal heating and cooling for low-income communities. Keep reading…
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What the FBI move to Greenbelt means for Prince George’s County and the region
The planned move of the FBI headquarters to Greenbelt opens up rare, important opportunities for equitable transit-oriented development. Keep reading…
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Breakfast links: Amtrak seeks to double ridership with investments like Union Station redevelopment
Amtrak aims to double ridership by 2040, with major Northeast corridor improvements in the works. DC pledges up to $200 million to avoid WMATA service cuts. Meeting the transportation needs of moving the Caps, Wizards to Potomac Yard could cost up to $215M. Keep reading…
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Breakfast links: Civil rights org sues DC landlord for discrimination against prospective tenants
DC landlord sued for discriminating against potential residents. Eight MTA Commuter Bus routes on the chopping block, 26 others to be reduced. Study finds most of Arlington’s unpaved hiking trails are harming the environment. Keep reading…
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What to watch in the 2024 Maryland General Assembly
The 2024 session of the Maryland General Assembly is only a few weeks old, but it’s already clear what its overarching theme will be: money. That said, this year’s legislative session should also see several bills addressing some of Maryland’s most pressing concerns on transportation, housing, and the environment. Keep reading…
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Breakfast links: David Rubenstein hopes to “catalyze development” with purchase of Baltimore Orioles
With pending Orioles sale to David Rubenstein-led group, Rubenstein touts opportunity to “catalyze development” in Baltimore. In long term plan, Fairfax County reduces road widening plans in favor of transit, bike, pedestrian upgrades. Yes in God’s backyard? MoCo considers zoning change to boost affordable housing stock. Keep reading…
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Do Something: The week of January 29, 2024
This week, here’s how you can Do Something to support tenants who want to redevelop their building; help Maryland count how many houses are being built (or not); and move accessory apartments forward in Virginia. Keep reading…
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One-quarter of Virginia’s transit systems operate fare free. Here’s why.
A number of Virginia’s transit agencies made buses free during the pandemic, and a lot of them are now making the change permanent. For many, it’s not only about providing a public service: it makes financial sense for the agency itself. Keep reading…
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Breakfast links: $500M offer contingent on Caps, Wizards staying in DC, Bowser says
Bowser holds firm: Caps and Wizards remain at Capital One Arena or DC will invest its $500M offer in new uses for the property. Temporary Arlington bus storage yard could become permanent. Baltimore’s new tree planting fee structure threatens to undermine its own canopy goal. Keep reading…
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Curbside composting is working in DC. But don’t knot those bags!
Residents across DC’s eight wards are using a curbside composting service to manage their food waste impact. Take a peek behind the scenes. Keep reading…