Photo by spakulsk on Flickr.

Vote today. Why not now?

Today is the special election in DC. We’ve endorsed Elissa Silverman for Council at-large and a yes vote on the referendum for budget autonomy. Polls are open until 8 pm; find your polling place here.  

Marijuana arrests target blacks

91% of the people arrested in DC for marijuana possession are black, and that proportion increased in recent years even as the city added white residents, many of whom likely smoke pot. (City Paper)  

United stadium looking likely

City Administrator Allen Lew is confident there can be a deal for DC United to build a stadium on Pepco and Akridge land in Buzzard Point. (Post) … The at-large candidates are supportive as well. (DCist)  

Trees are ultimately obstacles

Ultimate Frisbee players say new trees in the Ellipse make it hard to find places to play; spaces on the Mall itself are even scarcer. (DCist)  

Swing span got stuck

The swing span on the South Capitol Bridge got stuck in the open position during a test this past Sunday morning. (DCist)  

Met Branch Trail unstuck

The preservation group that controls the historic Silver Spring station changed its mind and will allow review to go forward for the Metropolitan Branch Trail past the building. It had been using the area for parking. (WABA)  

Count people and bikes in Alexandria

The Alexandria Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee needs volunteers to conduct bike and pedestrian counts on May 9 and 11 in 14 locations around the city. Can you help?  

We’re renting more, driving less

Young people aren’t driving more even as the economy rebounds, thanks to higher gas prices, urban living, and services that make it easier to go car-free. (Post) … Americans are also more likely to be renters and less likely to care about owning a home. (Atlantic Cities)  

And…

A bike helmet flashes a cyclist’s level of stress. (Wired) … VDOT wants feedback on its bike map. (FABB) … The 4th annual “Potholepalooza” is on. (Post)