Breakfast links: President Trump wants to privatize the region’s water infrastructure
The feds want to sell off part of the region’s water infrastructure
The president's proposed budget calls for the federal government to sell and stop operating the Washington Aqueduct. The administration wants to find a private buyer, but DC and Arlington are concerned that would mean hefty rate increases for customers. Could DC Water take it over instead? (Robert McCartney / Post)
Maryland Transit Administration loses its head
The chief of the Maryland Transit Administration, Paul Comfort, left his post abruptly this week. Director of Planning Kevin Quinn will serve as Acting Administrator during a busy period, as the MTA deals with Purple Line legal issues and rolls out a new Baltimore bus service this month. (Michael Dresser / Baltimore Sun)
Amtrak is getting ready for Roanoke
Amtrak is running empty trains out to Roanoke, VA in order to train its crew members. This fall, Roanoke will become part of the Northeast Regional route, and the city will see passenger rail service for the first time in forty years. (William Vantuono / RailwayAge)
More school vouchers are coming for DC’s kids
The Department of Education will provide more federal money to students going to private schools through school vouchers, which could have a big impact for some DC families. This program is a shift in education policy from the last administration, and critics say it will drain money from public schools. (Kate McGee / WAMU)
Rule that says DC childcare workers need a degree draws pushback
New regulations that say DC childcare providers must have a college degree led some current and former daycare workers to stage a protest against what they call overly burdensome requirements that will force them out of business. (Michael Alison Chandler / Post)
A new Arlington transit startup offers a different way to pay
A startup company called Sprynt will offer all electric van rides between Rosslyn and Ballston for free, as long as passengers are willing to listen to advertisements during the trip. (UrbanTurf)
Karen Pence brings thousands of bees to DC
Karen Pence, the Vice President's wife, installed a beehive with 20,000 bees at the Vice President's residence to help combat the decline in bee population worldwide. (Gabriella Paiella / The Cut)
Why US infrastructure is so expensive
US infrastructure is outrageously expensive. But it's not because of labor or environmental review. It's because we focus on “cost” when we should focus on “price.” (Charles Marohn / Strong Towns)
Have a tip for the links? Submit it here.