Lunch links: Not going to fix itself
The word on Catoe
Robert McCartney has a good, broad look at Catoe’s departure: Things won’t get better without more funding; Catoe could have communicated better and pushed more to reform Metro; and Board members who don’t think regionally create big obstacles. (Post, Cavan) (Tip: Cavan)
Promised to fix transportation? Never mind
Virginia Governor-elect Bob McDonnell won’t try to address transportation funding this year, even though it was the top issue in the campaign. His plan didn’t seem to hold any water, which is probably why he’s broken this promise even before taking office. (Post)
Red Line disruptions this weekend
There is no Red Line service between Medical Center and White Flint this weekend; shuttles will replace service in the affected area. (Track Twenty-Nine)
Evans driving distracted?
Matt Ashburn Tweeted that Councilmember Jack Evans was driving while on his phone, almost hit Matt’s car, and made an illegal U-turn. Matt posted a picture, though you can’t see if it’s Evans. Via DCist.
VRE still growing
On January 12th, VRE carried the largest number of passengers in its 18-year history: 18,915 people, beating out the previous record set just six days earlier. VRE officials attribute better on-time performance, new railcars and parking, and other improvements to the railroad’s steadily growing ridership.
Go on a diet
Arlington is looking for a few “car-free diet skeptics” who drive regularly but are willing to try giving up a car for 30 days. Participants apply with a video and if selected, get a free SmarTrip with a month of fares, a bike lock and helmet, Zipcar membership, and more, and then document their experiences online. (CommuterPageBlog, Gavin Baker) (Tip: Gavin Baker)
Let Bethesda build
An allocation of money for schools in Bethesda means the moratorium on building can now end, which current county law requires if there aren’t a certain number of school classrooms. While school capacity is necessary, the law just forces develoment in areas without good infrastructure. (Post, Cavan) (Tip: Cavan)
Pop that out of here!
Prince of Petworth picks the “worst pop-up of all time,” a two-story vinyl monstrosity sticking out of a historic row house in the Truxton Circle area.