Morning links: A snowy day
Snow problems
Snow today is causing traffic problems, delaying or closing schools, and impeding bus routes. Although weather reports only predicted a coating, snow continues to fall and cause problems and power outages. (WAMU)
Trash, treasure
The DC Council authorized eminent domain late last year to replace a beleaguered private trash transfer station with DC Water operations in Brentwood. But now some residents are concerned about DC Water’s handling of raw sewage. (Post)
New Bike Bill
Mary Cheh has her own bill to reform contributory negligence. It will change the rule so cyclists and pedestrians can still collect unless they were more than 50% at fault. (WAMU)
Bike programs on break
Thanks to a gap in WABA’s funding from DDOT, WABA’s DC-based Bike Ambassador program is on hiatus until a new contract cycle begins. WABA expects its outreach and education programs to be back up and running once a new contract is awarded. (WABA)
DC dynasty?
With 22 candidates already declared, Marion Barry’s son is officially running for the Ward 8 council seat under the name “Marion C. Barry.” Barry, who went by “Christopher” until recently, has had several run-ins with the law. (City Paper, CHOTR)
Funding conundrum
Is transportation funding going to the right places? Money often goes toward new construction with a low return-on-investment and low traffic counts, rather than toward maintenance of existing roads. How can we change this pattern? (StrongTowns)
Old Town upgrades
Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront plan includes city-funded park upgrades, a new riverfront promenade, and flood mitigation. But what should come first? The Planning Commission meets today to decide. (WBJ)
Say yes
The new head of Washington-area national parks is Bob Vogel, who previously ran the Mall and nearby parks. In an interview, Vogel talked about not just saying “no” to everything but making things work, allowing partnerships including things like cafes and performances for places like Franklin Park. (City Paper)
And…
Muriel Bowser spent her first day in office pushing for District rights on Capitol Hill. (Post) … Cities should discourage parking space saving when it snows because you don’t own public space. (City Lab) … The DC Council removed or merged several committees as planned. Jack Evans will now serve as the WMATA Board representative. (WBJ)