Breakfast links: What sustainability looks like
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Photo by Mr. T in DC on Flickr.
Seven Maryland locales certified sustainable
College Park, Hyattsville, Edmonston, Bladensburg, Gaithersburg, Frederick, and Annapolis were certified as sustainable. The designation is presented by the University of Maryland and recognizes “best practices in resource areas like water, energy, planning, health, food, and economy.” (UMD Right Now) (Tip: blank)
Planners revise Clarksburg blueprint
The Montgomery County Planning Board has released an update to the Clarksburg development plans. The changes envision 600 homes on smaller lots in a move to spur commercial development while protecting a nearby creek. (Post)
Homeownership preserves affordability
Turning many of Ward 8’s renters into homeowners would insulate them against rising prices. Not only would this be less expensive than housing subsidies, but would create a force for positive change in the ward. (CHOTR)
Water taxis could be feasible
A study found several feasible water taxi routes inside the Beltway, though all would require some level of subsidy. Connecting Alexandria and Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling would likely happen first. (Post)
A forest grows in Detroit
A private organization will be turning 140 vacant acres in Detroit into a forest. The move is expected to halt the decline in property values by providing a neighborhood amenity. (Atlantic Cities)
Pittsburgh candidate opposes stadium
In Pittsburgh, one mayoral candidate is vocally opposing a stadium expansion of the Steelers’ home field by highlighting the impact on other city services. (Think Progress, Thad) (Tip: Thad)
The 70-mile bike commute
One Mount Vernon “mega commuter” bikes and takes transit from his home to his Rockville office every day. The 70-mile round-trip takes over 5 hours, but is often the highlight of the day. (Post)
Does communication technology impact cities?
City design depends on existing transportation technologies, but is transportation just a subset of communication? How would the smart-phone city differ from the automobile city? (Human Transit)
And…
The Wiehle-Reston East Metro station will have a bike storage room for regular commuters. (FABB) … Could cyber-security provide a rich source of tech jobs for the Washington region? (Post) … A history of DC’s only amusement park reveals a forgotten segregation-era landmark. (Post)