Breakfast links: Larger vehicles and other factors are driving mounting pedestrian fatalities
Why the increase in pedestrian fatalities?
Why has there been an increase in pedestrian deaths over the past decade? People are driving more and are also driving larger vehicles, like light trucks and SUVs. Other factors include distracted driving due to cell phone use. (Sarah Holder / CityLab)
The Palisades Safeway won’t receive historic designation
The owners of the Palisades Safeway applied for historic designation in hopes of having their building declared not historic, with success. On Thursday, the Historic Preservation Review Board unanimously voted the grocery store does not merit designation. (Nena Perry-Brown / Urban Turf)
The National Zoo is getting more fences and fewer entrances
The National Zoo's proposal to add more fencing and reduce entrances was approved by the National Capital Planning Commission on Thursday, along with several parking changes. The Zoo says there are no plans to screen visitors. (Natalie Delgadillo / DCist)
About 30% of renters can buy in the larger Washington region
About 30% of local renters could afford to buy property in the larger region, which includes areas of West Virginia, an Urban Institute Study found. The share of renters who can afford to buy a home in the area of the region where they rent varies widely. (Nena Perry-Brown / UrbanTurf)
More accessory apartments in Arlington?
Arlington is looking at changing the rules around accessory apartments, also known as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The move would increase the number of current structures and properties which would be eligible for designation. (Nena Perry-Brown / UrbanTurf)
Memorial Bridge construction will conclude around 2021
The reconstruction of Memorial Bridge is well underway and expected to be complete by 2021. Current improvements include the permanent closure of the bridge's drawbridge function, which hasn't been opened since 1961. (Michael Ruane / Post)
Begging forgiveness over asking permission cost Bird 20K
Norfolk, Virginia impounded more than 500 Bird scooters, forcing the company to pay $20,000 to reclaim them. Bird had apparently deployed the scooters in Norfolk without approval. (Associated Press)
Home Rule, the DC retailer, will close this month
Home Rule, the retailer on 14th St NW, will close its doors after more than 20 years. The store has been on 14th Street since 1999 and has seen the corridor undergo enormous change. (Rachel Nania / WTOP)
Fairfax County Wants You! To take a brief survey about planning priorities
Fairfax County is developing its Strategic Plan for 2020 and beyond, and asking residents, workers, business owners and other stakeholders to weigh in using a five-question survey. Here's your chance to tell the County what you think the key priorities for decision-making should be. (Fairfax County)
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