Paper real-time bus clock. Image via MBTA.

Mass. bus predictions on the phone or paper

The MBTA has chosen winners for its developer contest around using real-time bus data. The winners are Catch the Bus, an iPhone app, and a paper real-time clock mounted in a bar that shows the time to the next bus. (Michael P)  

MERV on over there

WMATA has new electric carts, called MERVs, that emergency responders can assemble by hand, then drive on unpowered tracks. They should let personnel get to an emergency more quickly. (WMATA)  

Bus changes

Not many people are riding ART route 61 on Saturdays, so it will be discontinued after this Saturday. (Gavin) … Buses in SW DC will be rerouted, along with some other minor changes (and no, these aren’t the nasty service cuts that will happen in July without governmental intervention) (DCist)  (Tip: Gavin)  

Cycle confidently

WABA’s Confident City Cycling classes are a great way to learn to cycle safely in the city. WABA is offering three levels from a short 2-hour intro to advanced maneuvers and even on-bike evaluations. There’s also an intro class for adults who’ve never ridden a bicycle. (TheWashCycle)  

I can’t believe DC won’t give me something

Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber expressed annoyance that DC won’t subsidize a soccer stadium

work out a deal for a soccer stadium. (WTOP) Mike DeBonis and DCist are annoyed back, pointing out the sense of entitlement in Garber’s attitude and DC’s tight budget.  

Get off the phone in Maryland

By a one-vote margin, the Maryland State Senate passed a handheld cell phone ban for drivers, though it still allows hands-free operation. It will now go to the House which is expected to pass the bill or a similar version. (Get There)  

The delicate balance of stormwater

Stormwater regulations are a tricky issue in the smart growth community: strict stormwater requirements for development protect vital waterways, but sometimes end up favoring low-density development in distant areas over urban infill. Groups are split over an extension to developers on complying with a 2007 Maryland law: Anacostia Watershed Society rallied against the recent deal, while 1000 Friends of Maryland says “it could have been worse.”  (Tip: Gavin)  

Not the way to build a client base

The owner of the new Du Vin Osteria on U Street threatened legal action against a blogger for a user comment which wasn’t even so terrible and definitely not illegal. Will the ensuing bad press from numerous blogs sink the new place before it gets going? (U Street Girl, DCist, 14th and You)