Breakfast links: The shutdown may have done long-term damage to the region’s economy
Will the government shutdown have a long-term effect on the region?
According to one local expert, the effects of the recently-ended shutdown will last years and have compromised the region's reputation as a stable job market. Another contends that perceptions around job stability won't change, citing the local economy's resilience during the Great Recession. (Ally Schweitzer / WAMU)
What federal workers can expect now that the shutdown is over
Today marks the first day furloughed federal employees can return back to work. A number of things are still unclear, including when paychecks will finally arrive and if the government will shut down again on February 15. (Laura McCoy / WAMU)
Metro is cracking down on employees who break the law
On Friday, Metro announced that two former employees had been sentenced for running a job “double-dipping scheme.” Additionally, the transit system announced it will audit records for purchases made and procedures for exiting employees. (Faiz Siddiqui / Post)
This Twitter bot can tell you if a driver has unpaid parking tickets
Last year, a DC resident created a Twitter bot that helps track unpaid parking tickets. Users simply enter in the license plate number, and the bot replies with any ticket information. The bot's creator is looking to create an app with a similar premise. (Ryan Johnston / StateScoop)
In February, all Circulator rides will be free
For the month of February, all rides on the DC Circulator will be free. Fares are normally $1 per ride. The city has not discussed how to pay for the move, which is part of a campaign to increase economic opportuninties for all residents. (Rachel Sadon / DCist)
Howard University is studying how to improve traffic safety
Thanks to a $3.75 million grant from DDOT, Howard University’s Transportation Research Center will study traffic crashes in the District and propose ways to make streets safer. The grant is a part of DC's Vision Zero initiative, which so far hasn't been successful in reducing traffic deaths. (Andrew Giambrone / Curbed DC)
Sluggish home sales are likely to continue in 2019
Home sales slowed down in 2018 due to a lack of supply and rising costs. Many experts say the trend will continue into next year and could potentially tamper the growth of housing prices and mortgage rates. (Kathy Orton / Post)
New life for a long-vacant office building in Ballston
The Arlington Square building in Ballston, vacated by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, has sat empty for several years. Now the county is mulling zoning changes to attract two new tenants, and other retailers could be moving in as well. (Alex Koma / ARLnow)
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