Opinion Posts
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For WMATA to make the biggest impact, it should think beyond just Metrorail
Back in August, we covered the possibility of a Blue Line Loop that would run in a ring around the region. Pretty cool, but also pretty pricey: $35 billion, to be exact. What if WMATA broke off some of that money for MARC and VRE? Keep reading…
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A thought experiment: How many homes could we build in DC west of Rock Creek Park?
DC neighborhoods west of Rock Creek Park have easy access to sought-after schools, jobs, shopping, and Metro, but are basically off-limits to all but the wealthy due to restrictive zoning. If you changed that, a lot more people could live there and enjoy those things. Like, a lot! Keep reading…
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Old Enough! DC edition: what a kids’ independent errand says about our built environment
In some countries, it’s normal for kids to undertake errands on their own from a young age. Their built environment and culture prioritize their safety and ability to navigate independently. But American patterns of land use don’t encourage the same level of independence. The author sent her children on an errand to see how they’d manage on their own. Keep reading…
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Transit Diary: A Navy Yard ANC Commissioner’s car-free (and scooter-enhanced) travels to Reston and beyond
ANC Commissioner Brian Strege shares how he got around during the National Week Without Driving. Keep reading…
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Want a lift? How about three? Metro’s elevators leave some riders behind
Metro has elevators in all 98 of its stations, which is a huge win for mobility justice that sets the system apart from its peers. There’s a “but,” though: some of the most crucial stations are still very hard to navigate by wheelchair, and when elevators go out, wheelchair users are left without options. Keep reading…
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Transit Diary: Trouble in walkers’ paradise? A GGWash staffer’s week on mostly two legs and two wheels
Caitlin Rogger, GGWash’s Deputy Executive Director, shares how she got around during the National Week Without Driving. Keep reading…
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Transit Diary: A DC Councilmember shares how he got around during the National Week Without Driving
Follow along with Ward 6 Councilmember and Chairperson of the DC Council’s Committee on Transportation and the Environment, Charles Allen, for his trips during the National Week Without Driving. Keep reading…
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Transit Diary: A Foggy Bottom resident leans on transit and walking to move herself (and a lot of corn) around town
In this latest Transit Diary, Courtney Cooperman, a Foggy Bottom-based housing advocate, makes her way around DC on foot and by transit, reflecting on what works well and where our transit system and pedestrian infrastructure could improve. Keep reading…
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Worried about climate change? You can plug into these local efforts to help turn the tide.
There’s a lot you can do to influence the Washington region’s effect on climate change. When you’ve had enough doom scrolling, take a look at where you can help. Keep reading…
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To get the Metro we deserve, transform parking into housing
The Metro system is the foundation the Washington region needs to build a pleasant, sustainable, equitable future. Transforming its parking lots into transit-oriented development can increase revenue and build a bigger rider base. Keep reading…