Amtrak train at DC’s Union Station by David Wilson licensed under Creative Commons.

Amtrak receives $8 million grant to bolster workforce

Amtrak plans to use the funds from the Federal Railroad Administration to launch a three-year mechanical training program with hubs in DC, New York, and LA, among other major cities. In December, the railroad had 1,500 fewer employees than when the pandemic began in 2020.   (Luz Lazo / Post)  

Maryland lawmakers question Metro officials on safety improvements

Maryland’s House Appropriations subcommittee held a hearing focused on safety problems at Metro on Wednesday. Issues focused on the 7000-series cars and recovering ridership post-COVID. This is the first such meeting since leadership changed on the committee from a Baltimore City representative to a Prince George’s County representative.  (Josh Kurtz / Maryland Matters. Tip: MarkusJT)  

NCPC approves critical step for DC’s Armed Forces Retirement Home

NCPC’s approval of an amendment for the AFRH master plan advances the Northwest development, which will include 3,000 residences, roughly 300,000 square feet of space for retail and hospitality, up to one million square feet of medical and traditional office space, and over 20 acres of open space.  The first master plan for the site was submitted in 2008.   (Urban Turf)  

New East-West transit options for Baltimore

The Maryland Transit Administration is seeking public input on seven transit options that could serve the Baltimore region. Five of them include bus rapid transit systems, while two use light rail cars. Officials would like residents to consider what makes the most sense and serves the most people.   (Bruce DePuyt / Maryland Matters)  

Experts say record-high gas prices may inrease transit ridership

Metrobus ridership has increased to about 300,000 daily riders per day from 200,000 during most of the pandemic. One car owner who now takes Metro more told NBC that he went from paying $65 to fill up his car’s gas tank to $100.   (Adam Tuss / NBC Washington)  

Spray parks open in Arlington

All four of Arlington’s spraygrounds — designed specifically for children — and one out of two of its interactive water features are now open. Mosaic Park is currently closed due to repairs but should open in a month. Hours vary at each location.   (Matt Blitz / ARLnow)  

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