Breakfast links: In camera
Cleared for videotaping police
The motorcyclist who videotaped a plainclothes officer pull a gun on him for a traffic stop has been cleared of wiretapping charges. (Baltimore Sun) A Circuit Court judge rejected prosecutors arguments in a case that has drawn national attention. The motorcyclist will appear on today’s Kojo Nnamdi show at noon.
DC fairly car-lite
The American Community Survey has released some statistics, including the fact that 35.2% of DC households have no car, versus 8.9% nationally. 44.7% of households have one car. (Housing Complex)
Flashy architecture often has problems
A Chicago museum is suing its architects for a building that won two awards for excellence. That’s because the flashy modern architecture that pushes the envelope both gets attention and also often has big flaws because of the untested materials or design principles. We discussed the same issues with the National Gallery’s East Wing last year. (WSJ)
Crystal City a go
The Arlington County Board unanimously approved the Crystal City Plan, which calls for greater density, an improved street grid, a streetcar line, and increased building heights. A Vornado VP called it “the epitome of Smart Growth.” We reviewed the plan here. (ARLnow, Eric H.) (Tip: Eric H.)
Cyclists overpay for road space
Since gas taxes tend to pay for interstates and other limited access highways, it turns out cyclists actually subsidize drivers on local streets under most municipal funding schemes. (Grist, Vancouver Sun)
NYC unveils new intercoms
After laying off more than 400 station agents, the New York MTA has fast-tracked the introduction of new intercoms that will be spread throughout the system. The MTA hopes it will help customers get help in the system, particularly during emergencies. (Transportation Nation)
And…
The allegedly drunk driver in the Adams Morgan fatal crash has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter (Crime Scene) … DDOT has enlisted several consultants and firms to manage the streetcar project … Takoma Park voters approved a balllot question to allow restaurants to serve alcohol, but will still prohibit liquor stores. (TBD)
Shots, crashes
There was a “chaotic” shooting that turned into a major car crash at 13th and U yesterday. (TBD, everyone else)