Breakfast links: One year in, I-66 tolls are changing motorists’ habits for the better

I-66 at Vienna Metro by BeyondDC licensed under Creative Commons.

I-66 Express Lanes seem to be changing motorists’ habits for the better

Since HOV lanes went into effect on I-66 one year ago, the results have been largely positive. Carpooling has increased, and motorists are traveling at higher speeds and experiencing fewer collisions thanks to less congestion. (Max Smith / WTOP) Twitter

High rents are forcing many independent retailers to close

Rising rents and a growing preference for shopping online is pushing many of the District's independent retailers to close up shop. Meanwhile, many landlords hold on to vacant storefronts in the hopes that property values will rise. (Paul Schwartzman / Post) Twitter

Predicting the future of transportation in DC isn’t easy

Planning for things like autonomous vehicles can be tricky since technology can change over a relatively short period of time. Fortunately, testing and implementing AVs is less timely and expensive than other infrastructure projects like streetcars. (Michael Laris / Post) Twitter

Amtrak plans to enlarge its Union Station concourse and add bathrooms

Starting this fall, Amtrak will embark on construction projects at Union Station to double the size of its concourse and add more bathrooms. The current concourse lends itself to congestion and is often confusing for first-time travelers. (Jordan Pascale / WAMU) Twitter

DC’s new safety measures go beyond more bans on right on red

Prohibiting right turns on red at more intersections isn't the only change the District is making to improve pedestrian safety. Starting this year, penalties for traffic violations will increase, new drop-off zones for ride-hailing services will be in effect, and pedestrians will have more time to cross at intersections. (Luz Lazo / Post) Twitter

The DC Council is expected to closely scrutinize the DCPS chancellor nominee

Public education is high on the list of grievances for many DC councilmembers given recent scandals, and the confirmation process for Lewis Ferebee, the nominee for DCPS chancellor, is expected to be much more rigorous than in years past. (Perry Stein / Post) Twitter

Old BART cars could find a new purpose as housing

This Thursday, the Bay Area Rapid Transit Board of Directors will decide the fate of rail cars that will soon be pulled from the system. Options including using the cars as homeless shelters, restaurants, and even Airbnb dwellings. (Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez / San Francisco Chronicle) Twitter

Cable cars are gaining popularity around the world

Cable cars (aka gondolas) have become increasingly popular around the world because they can easily handle elevation changes and have a minimal footprint. In some cities, they are a low-cost substitute for light rail; in others, they become tourist attractions. (Len Williams / BBC. Tip: Chuck Coleman) Twitter

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