Photo by Scott Lenger on Flickr.

No car Capitol?

The former head of the Capitol Police thinks the Capitol grounds should expand by several blocks in each direction and ban all vehicle traffic (including on Constitution and Independence) to thwart any possible car or truck bomb.  (Post)  

Marylanders worry about VMT tax

Maryland is considering a vehicle mileage tax, in addition to gas taxes passed last year. Despite the technical challenges, other states are moving ahead with similar taxes. (WBAL, Richard)  (Tip: Richard)  

Take VRE to the fireworks

For the first time in 10 years, VRE will run special trains for Independence Day evening festivities. Each of the two lines will have one train that day, enough to carry about 1000 people total. (Potomac Local)  

Next train in how long?!?

Track work can mean Metro trains run every 24 minutes. The idea is to give more certainly to travel times but trains still sometimes have to stop before entering the work zone and can be very crowded. Is there a better way? (Post)  

How to make the W&OD safer?

There are 70 intersections along the W&OD trail, but trail users do not generally stop at intersections. Making the trail crossing more visible to drivers as well as slowing them down could help with safety. (FABB)  

Gas station sculpture planned for Anacostia

A Canadian artist plans to sink a gas station replica in the river, as part of an installation linking oil consumption with rising sea levels. (CityLab)  

Marion Barry in his own words

The Mayor for Life has published an autobiography, which provides plenty of salacious details, but fails to explain the bond he made with so many, or address his inaction on the District’s many challenges. (Post)  

Lean urbanism could revive cities faster

In Detroit, artists and other individuals have been able to rebuild parts of the city by skirting normal rules. Can regulations and processes be simplified to replicate similar results elsewhere? (Bacon’s Rebellion)  

Light rail connects Twin Cities

A new line opened between Minneapolis and St. Paul. It integrates into the university campus and was designed with thought to redevelopment and social justice. Can it serve as an example for the Purple Line? (RPUS)  

And…

DC is among 4 finalist cities vying for the US Olympic bid for the 2024 games. (DCist) … DC United releases new stadium renderings. (City Paper) … DC has the most farmers markets after New York. (WBJ)