Breakfast links: Roadblocks
Shut down I-395?
A developer’s proposal to shut down the Center Leg Freeway tunnel in DC to speed construction above it prompted strong responses here and elsewhere. Is DDOT abdicating its leadership responsibility by forwarding the proposal to the federal government for a decision? (Post)
Protests continue to shut down streets
Protests continued throughout DC in the wake of the non-indictments of the police officers who killed Michael Brown and Eric Garner. Meanwhile, Streetsblog asks how fear of police violence affects the use of public space by people of color. (Post, Streetsblog)
How to fund Metro
With local governments facing budget shortfalls, officials aren’t keen on WMATA’s request for more money. What are some other strategies for funding Metro, and can the region come together to reaffirm its support of transit? (RPUS)
Pop-ups put down
DC’s Office of Planning wants to forbid converting rowhouses to multiple units. While this would stop growth in housing units, it would preserve units with 3 or more bedrooms, which are particularly scarce. (District Source)
Superheroes against drunk driving
A woman dressed as a superhero visited local bars to encourage drinkers to plan for a safe ride home. Unfortunately, people continue to die at the hands of drivers. Can the region rally behind Vision Zero? (Post, WABA)
“Forget it, Jake; it’s Chinatown”
For years, Los Angeles has poached water to permit growth. But after it was forced to give some of it up, the city has reversed course and is now a leader in water conservation and stormwater management. (NYT)
Highway revolts in Dallas
A proposed toll highway near downtown Dallas is losing support and may be canceled. Strong neighborhood opposition and low traffic projections have turned everyone but the mayor against it. (Streetsblog)
And…
Carpoolers along the new I-95 HOT lanes in Virginia are eligible for a $230 incentive. (WTOP) … Fairfax County goes abroad to find businesses that want to open in the DC area. (Post) … Gentrification: you know it when you see it. (City Lab)