Breakfast links: Costly delays
Slowly to Silver
Changes to storm water management regulations and other design changes will delay the second phase of the Silver Line by 13 months and have already added over $40 million to the cost of the project. (Post)
Metro opens (the wrong) doors
In the past month, Metro train operators have opened doors on the wrong side of a train at least three times. Metro has reminded operators to follow the 5 second rule, even though none occurred as trains pulled into a station. (NBC4)
The region on widening
Regional officials sounded off about the plan to widen I-66 inside the Beltway before letting other congestion-easing measures take effect. Some were appalled by the politics, while others welcomed even more widening and claimed it will relieve crowding on Metro. (WAMU)
Farragut v Franklin
What makes Farragut Square seem vibrant and active and nearby Franklin Square so desolate? Small shops, clear sight lines, and good maintenance make a big difference. Franklin Square’s renovation could change all that. (Washingtonian)
Bike bills in legislation
Maryland is considering bills to make the 3-foot passing law more strict and to no longer force cyclists to use bike infrastructure. (WABA)
A different kind of smoke
Yesterday morning a Metro car filled with smoke after a fire extinguisher discharged. A witness claims a group of four teenagers were responsible for the smoke, but officials have yet to comment. (Post)
Diagnosing DC FEMS
DC Councilmembers expressed concern about DC Fire and EMS resistance to crucial reform its outgoing medical director, Jullette Saussy, has called for. Interviewed fire officials said they were willing to work on the system’s flaws. (DCist)
Ban the Box going strong
DC legislation to stop employers from asking applicants about their criminal background has been really successful. Experts think the Office of Human Rights’ approach to outreach and enforcement has made a huge impact on compliance. (DCist)
Tickets for taxis
What do DC taxi drivers get ticketed for the most? Loitering and failure to keep a suitable manifest top the list by a wide margin. (Post)
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