Breakfast links: Shiny new things
New Metro railcars
Metro will start taking delivery of the new 7000-series cars this year, to be placed in service in 2014. Half the fleet is scheduled for replacement by 2018. The new stainless-steel cars feature wider aisles and more information displays. (WAMU)
Euro-trains coming to US
Expected regulatory changes will allow unrestricted operation of European trains stateside by 2015. The lighter trains are faster and more efficient but had been heavily regulated by the FRA due to safety concerns. (Next City)
Can streetcar and delivery trucks coexist?
The track design along H Street includes a parking lane that is too narrow for delivery trucks. Neighborhood business owners met with DDOT yesterday, but changes to the layout at this date are unlikely. (City Paper)
Taxi issues pile up
A credit card payment processing firm is tied up in disputes with 3 cab fleets over meter installation and contract issues. Out of 8 payment service providers approved by DC, 3 have had significant problems. (WAMU)
Monument shedding scaffolding
The Washington Monument’s temporary lights will be turned off Monday. Construction scaffolding will start coming down this month in advance of a spring reopening. (Post)
Boat club keeps water access
Alexandria’s waterfront redevelopment may be complicated by a court decision upholding a boat club’s alley easement, dating to 1789. The city is still considering eminent domain to acquire the club’s parking lot. (Post)
Leave your electronic devices on
The FAA will allow use of personal electronics during all phases of flight. Implementation will be in the hands of the airlines, but should be complete by the end of the year. Good news: talking on cell phones is still off-limits. (Post)
Technology not reducing Millennial driving
The decline in young Americans’ driving habits relative to previous generations has been caused by the recession, according to a new study. Technology use appears to encourage travel at the margin. (Atlantic Cities)
And…
Will Arlington plow its bike trails? (Along the Pike) … The woman accused of vandalizing memorials has been deemed incompetent to stand trial. (WAMU) … The developer of Skyland Town Center has announced that Walmart will open in 2016. (WBJ) … Is commuting by plane from Barcelona cheaper than living in London? (Atlantic Cities, Jared Christian)