Breakfast links: 40 people were killed in DC crashes last year
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A driver crashed into this bus stop in June last year, killing Antonio Felder, 59. Image by Joe Flood licensed under Creative Commons.
DC’s road death toll last year was highest in more than a decade
2021 saw 40 traffic-related fatalities in DC — the highest number since 2007. Half of the people who died in DC were not in a vehicle, including 17 pedestrians and three cyclists. Across the region, 282 people died on roads, which was also higher than usual. (Jordan Pascale / DCist. Tip: Chester B.)
Maryland General Assembly reconvenes this week
The Maryland General Assembly’s next legislative session begins this week, with the omicron surge and June primaries looming. Legislators plan to try to pass redistricting maps, climate legislation, and tenant protections. (Bryn Stole / Baltimore Sun)
George Mason’s Arlington campus begins massive expansion
George Mason University just kicked off a $235 million expansion of its Arlington campus. Once it’s completed in 2025, the Arlington campus will be able to serve an additional 3,000 to 4,000 students. (Matt Blitz / ARLnow)
DC’s rent relief fund to get millions more in federal assistance
The federal government is providing DC over $17 million in rental assistance which will be used to fund STAY DC, the program that helped residents cover rental and utility costs during the pandemic but ran out of funds last year. The move comes just as evictions have resumed in the District. (Colleen Grablick / DCist)
Apartment rents have climbed back up in the District
According to a new report, rents in DC increased 12% in 2021, almost completely erasing the 12.4% decrease in 2020. However, rents are still 3% lower overall compared to March 2020. (Nena Perry-Brown / UrbanTurf)
Metro still not sure when 7000-series trains can return to service
Metro’s 7000-series railcars are still grounded after being pulled a second time back in December, due to confusion over the wheelset inspection process. Officials said Friday they don’t know when the trains will return to service. (Justin George / Post)
Motorist strikes, kills pedestrian in Manassas
On Saturday night, a motorist struck and killed a man who was walking alongside a road in Manassas. According to police, speeding and drug or alcohol use did not appear to be factors in the collision. (Allison Klein / Post. Tip: Chester B.)
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