Breakfast links: Not like it used to be
The action is in the core
In 2011, DC and Arlington had 36% of the region’s new housing, compared to just 8% over the 2 decades prior. Most of the new housing has been in multi-family buildings. (Post)
Verizon Center aims for new signage
Hearings are about to begin on the Verizon Center’s plan to add wraparound animated signs to its facade. The plan has faced significant local opposition. (Examiner)
Bikeshare survey says
Capital Bikeshare users saved $810 a year in transportation costs, and most reduced car trips, shows a new survey. Bikeshare users tend to be young and educated and more likely to have a job than the average Washingtonian, but compared to just other commuters, they earn less. (DCist, City Paper) (Tip: coffeephilosoph)
New cars won’t come in time
Metro will not get most new railcars in time for the Silver Line, because disasters in Japan have delayed manufacture, and Metro won’t have a test track until a few months after the line opens. (Examiner)
Do they need the money?
A housing development atop Shaw Metro, which will include some affordable housing, wants a $2.7 million public loan. Is it necessary? (DCFPI)
Another “power grab”
Bob McDonnell’s board power plays continue: He ousted a member of the airports authority board who had labor ties. Congressman Gerry Connolly calls this “a pattern … of political power grab[s].” (Examiner)
Who’s running for what?
Phil Mendelson is definitely running for DC Council chair, while Vincent Orange has decided not to. Meanwhile, Ward 2 State Board of Education member Mary Lord is running at-large instead, either because the at-large seat is open or because her challenger, Jack Jacobson, amassed a big war chest. (Post)
Chicago is stumbling
Not all American cities are booming and returning to the urban core. Chicago has faced population loss and other crises over the past decade, a contrast with most of largest American cities. (City Journal)
Rio’s growing pains
The upcoming Rio +20 conference is a chance to show the world a good face, but the visitors will also be exposed to Rio’s unsustainable development and trash problems. (Next American City)
And…
DC has none of the top ZIP codes for gay couples. (Urbanturf) … Really, highways don’t pay for themselves. (Daily Kos) … Veronica Davis loses 2,000 pounds (of car).