Breakfast links: Maryland transit adjusts to hybrid work patterns with new flexible fare option
Maryland transit launches fare option for hybrid workers
The Maryland Transit Administration is launching 3 and 10-day “CharmFlex” passes on its CharmPass mobile app aimed at commuters returning to work on hybrid schedules. The passes are available on the MTA’s Baltimore Light Rail and Metro Subway systems, as well as its Local and Commuter buses and on MARC. (MDOT MTA. Tip: Alex H.)
Capital Bikeshare doubles stations in Reston
Officials cut the ribbon on 19 new Capital Bikeshare stations in Reston, more than doubling the number of stations there. Another expansion is in the works in the Vienna and Merrifield area. (Hannah Foley / RestonNow)
Rapid Rehousing residents get an extension
Time limits for DC’s Rapid Rehousing program were paused during the pandemic. Now residents are getting an official extension: families will get six months’ notice before losing subsidies, and 300 households will take part in a career pilot program allowing them to stay for five years. (Will Schick / DC Line)
Montgomery County shelter has mice, mold, and leaks
The Gwendolyn Coffield Community Center became a temporary shelter to house women experiencing homelessness during the pandemic. But deteriorating living conditions have been reported at the shelter, from mice to mold and ceiling leaks. Residents say they want a stable place to live; and to solve the problem long-term, Montgomery County needs to solve its affordable housing shortage. (Dominique Maria Bonessi / DCist)
Washington Monument electrical system being repaired
The Washington Monument closed last week after lightning caused damage to the monument’s electronic access system. Crews are now working on fixing the electrical system but it’s unclear when it will reopen. (Dana Hedgpeth / Post)
New urgent care facility opens at BWI
A new full-service urgent care facility will open at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport this week. First Call Medical Center will offer a range of health services for passengers and employees, including COVID-19 testing and vaccinations. (Glynis Kazanjian / WTOP)
Controversial parking lot in Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park nixed
Baltimore has scrapped plans to build a 79-space parking lot in one of its largest parks, Druid Hill Park. The parking lot, intended to accompany a newly rebuilt swimming pool, was opposed by citizen groups. (Mark Reutter / Baltimore Brew. Tip: Alex H.)
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