A 7000-series train in Alexandria, VA by MW Transit Photos licensed under Creative Commons.

Metro gets go-ahead to double 7000-series trains in operation, plans to open Silver Line extension by Thanksgiving

With help from Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine of Virginia, Metro reached an agreement with the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission to double the number of 7000-series trains permitted for use in the rail system. The increase of available trains will enable Metro to open the Silver Line extension to Dulles International Airport by Thanksgiving. The Commission will require Metro to inspect train wheels every four days as part of the agreement.   (Justin George / Post)  

MoCo Council unanimously passes Thrive 2050

The Montgomery County Council unanimously passed Thrive 2050, a thirty-year plan to address equity, climate change, transportation, and development in the county. Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich argued the plan was rushed and doesn’t adequately address equity concerns.  (Kate Ryan / WTOP News)  

First test train has successful run through new Potomac Yard Metro station

The successful run of the first test train through the Potomac Yard Metro station marks a major milestone in Metro’s efforts to open the new station. After being pushed from this spring to this fall, the station’s opening has been pushed further to an unspecified date in 2023.  (Vernon Miles / ALXNow)  

Raze application filed for RFK Stadium

The DC government filed a raze and site stabilization application for RFK Stadium on Monday. This comes after two fires broke out in the 61-year-old stadium in July. The stadium will be demolished by the end of 2023.  (UrbanTurf)  

Maryland to improve severe weather forecasts

The Maryland Mesonet will provide real-time information about severe weather events in an effort to save lives and property, similar to networks in the Midwest’s “Tornado Alley.” 12 towers will be operational by the end of summer 2023 and will provide data on air temperature, pressure, humidity, and soil conditions.  (Kristi King / WTOP News)  

Alexandria lowers speed limits on several key streets

The City of Alexandria decided to lower speed limits by 10 mph on several major streets and their school zones. The reductions are part of an effort to reduce deadly car crashes under the city’s Vision Zero plan.  (Vernon Miles / ALXNow)  

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