Photo by caribbeanfreephoto on Flickr.

Crime isn’t quite so bad

Although violent crime in DC is up by quite a bit over last year, taken in a broader context crime rates actually fit nicely with long-term trends. Over a multi-year period, crime continues to fall. (MetroTrends)  

Whistleblowing officer to sue MPD

After reporting that police escorts of celebrities like Charlie Sheen were “quite common,” one officer was demoted. He intends to file suit, arguing the move was retaliation for publicly disagreeing with Chief Lanier. (DCist)  

3 streetcars isn’t enough

After a protest scuttled DDOT’s purchase of new streetcars, the agency might not have enough to make the line run every 10 minutes, as promised, when it opens. That didn’t please Tommy Wells and Mary Cheh at all. (Post)  

Should DCPS create charter schools?

Mayor Gray and Chancellor Henderson want DCPS to be able to authorize charter schools, a power now exclusive to the DC Public Charter School Board. The idea is still under exploration. (Post)  

House transpo bill getting changes

The terrible House transportation reauthorization has been put on hold by Speaker Boehner pending changes, like shortening the term from five years and restoring transit funding paid for by the gas tax. (The Hill)  

When loitering is good

Many American cities actively discourage loitering, because of fears that loiterers are there to commit crimes or do drugs. But loitering—or lingering— is also part of lively street life, which cities should actually encourage. (Atlantic Cities)  

And…

R Street gets sharrows. (WashCycle) … A fight over 2 parking spaces derails a cupcake shop in Minneapolis

St. Paul, Minnesota. (Star Tribune, Michael P.) … Every neighborhood email list has the same cast of characters. (Atlantic Cities) … Richard Sarles declines a bonus. (Examiner)