Breakfast links: Why can’t we get our concrete to last like the Romans’ mix?
The Romans made a lot of lasting concrete
Roman concrete has lasted 2000+ years, while the Rhode Island Avenue Metro Station concrete didn't even last 40 years. Geologists are now studying Roman principles to see how they could be applied today. (John Kelly / Post)
An archivist finds long-lost, abstract Metro maps
As an archivist was going through boxes of designs from legendary graphic designers Massimo and Lella Vignelli, she stumbled upon Massimo’s abstract rapid transit system maps he proposed for Metro. (Mark Byrnes / CityLab)
Prince George’s is the king of compost
An Upper Marlboro composting facility is expanding from processing 12,000 tons a year to 57,000 tons per year, which will make it the largest composting facility on the east coast. (Jacob Fenston / WAMU)
The Metro/CVS partnership is back on
Two hundred of the region's CVS stores will continue to sell and reload SmarTrip cards. CVS said earlier this month they may discontinue the partnership due to unreliable equipment and other operational challenges with Metro. (Luz Lazo / Post)
Plans are moving forward to increase trains between DC and Richmond
A plan to add an additional track between Arlington and Ashland that would increase Amtrak trains and VRE commuter rail service between DC and Richmond is being presented today. (Max Smith / WTOP)
Developers wants to preserve Bethesda Farm Women’s Market
Two developers are planning to renovate, add bathrooms, and turn parking lots into green space in an effort to preserve the historic Farm Women's Market. In return for the improvements, the height cap for nearby high-rises they're building can be higher. (Bethany Rodgers / Bethesda Beat)
Bethesda is getting a pop-up bike lane
Ride in a temporary bike lane consisting of barrels, cones, and other temporary markings on Woodmont Avenue in Bethesda this Friday for Bike to Work Day. The pop-up lane will preview plans for a permanent bike lane. (Bethany Rodgers / Bethesda Beat)
In case you forgot what a “derecho” is…
Monday's rush hour storm didn't produce a derecho. A derecho happens when strong, straight winds meet cool downdrafts causing straight line winds producing widespread damage. The last derecho hit the region in 2012. (Umari Irfan / Vox)
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