Breakfast links: DC’s new zoning code is here
DC retools zoning laws
The first major changes to DC’s zoning code since 1958 went into effect on Tuesday. Under the new rules, more people can rent out their basements, new buildings won’t be required to come with as much parking, and corner stores can open in residential areas. (WCP)
Metro has fewer riders, wants shorter hours
Metro ridership dropped 11% since April, with a total of 8 million fewer trips taken than during the same period in 2015. (Post) The agency has proposed 3 options for shorter hours, which it says will mean more time for track maintenance. (NBC4)
A mixed report for Metro safety
According to the Federal Transit Administration, Metro is making progress on its track and electrical problems but isn’t out of the woods yet. Also, crime and injuries have increased slightly since last year. (WTOP)
Not enough fire trucks
DC has sixteen fire trucks, but 2 are out of service until the end of the month (one is on standby in case of an emergency at the White House). There aren’t any reserve vehicles, but the fleet will grow in coming years. (NBC4)
Smaller hospital, bigger hospital
While Prince George’s County has downsized a proposal for a new medical center at Largo, neighborhood groups recently approved plans for a new hospital building at Georgetown University. (BizJournal)
Beyond bike-friendly
A new apartment complex in Malmö, Sweden will be exclusively for people who commute by bike. The building will have bike storage and maintenance programs and no parking spaces for residents. (CityLab)
And…
This map shows which Northern Virginia homes are best positioned for solar panels (WTOP)… New York’s Port Authority may sell One World Trade Center (NYMag)… West End buildings garner the most money per square foot in DC, at is $799 per square foot. (UrbanTurf)… DC’s government has awarded over 200 business grants since 2012, with restaurants receiving the largest portion. (DCist)