Breakfast links: See progress
Turn off the dark
Some riders think Metro stations are too dark, but station design makes adding more lighting difficult. Maintenance also presents a challenge when other priorities compete for limited budget. (Post)
Anacostia loses grocery store
Anacostia’s last grocery store closed but the developer is hoping to replace it with a high-profile tenant and has already turned away interested liquor stores and night clubs. (City Paper)
No one wants to run trolleys
Plans to initiate a free “trolley” route (a bus that looks like a trolley) in the Del Ray and Arlandria neighborhoods of Alexandria have hit a stumbling block after an RFP to operate the route received no bids. (Patch)
A few speed limits rise
Responding to public outcry, Mayor Gray raised the speed limits on part of Benning Road from 30 to 35, and on DC-295 to 50 mph. (Post)
Get stuff for more height
In exchange for building taller than the height limit allows, DC could require the developer to provide more public benefits like public space and LEED certification, like Arlington does today. (RPUS)
Frumin running at large
Ward 3 resident Matt Frumin plans to run for the at-large seat in April’s special election. Many of the familiar faces from the recent chain of at-large elections may also run. (Post)
Where will the FBI go?
Fairfax and Prince George’s are both pushing hard to get the FBI headquarters. Each has sites very near to Metro stations that would work well. (Bradley Heard suggests Morgan Boulevard). (Examiner)
We can learn from Barcelona
Barcelona can be a model for other cities around the world on topics such as encouraging walking and biking, how to build with varying street widths, and where to build tall buildings. (Atlantic Cities)
And…
Help the DC Streetcar pick a tagline. (DCist) … HPRB gets a new chair. (City Paper) … Fairfax Connector will start its 495 HOT lanes bus service next month. (WTOP) … Pepco is talking to DC officials about a new DC United Stadium at Buzzard Point. (Post)