Edge of Red Line Metrorail platform in 2017 with No Tresspassing sign visible by kelly bell photography licensed under Creative Commons.

Metro’s gun ban stands

A judge from the United States District Court for the District of Columbia has denied hearing a case seeking to overturn gun bans on public transportation in DC. Following local jurisdictions’ laws, carrying guns on Metro is permitted in Virginia but not in D.C. or Maryland.  (Martin Austermuhle / DCist)  

Baltimore Ravens extend their lease in downtown Baltimore

The Maryland Board of Public Works voted to renew a lease that would keep the Baltimore Ravens in the city’s downtown for at least another 15 years. The previous lease at M&T Bank Stadium was set to expire in 2027.  (William J Ford / WTOP)  

Councilmembers address Arlington’s ongoing missing middle housing debate in first meeting

Housing policy took center stage at Arlington County Board’s first meeting of the new year. Board members expressed commitments to inclusive housing policy, consensus-building, and civility.  (Jo DeVoe / ARLNow)  

20% of DC home sales went to buyers paying all cash in 2022

In 2022, about 20% of the 8,200 homes sold in DC were all cash transactions. Relatively wealthier neighborhoods like West End, Georgetown, Spring Valley, and Kent saw higher than average all-cash real estate transactions.  (UrbanTurf)  

Metro auditor praises safety monitoring system while suggesting areas for improvement

The Washington Metrorail Safety Commission released a new audit finding that Metro’s Internal Safety Review Program is generally effective at monitoring potential safety issues. However, they also recommended areas for improvement, such as offering more safety training for employees.  (Tom Roussey / ABC7 News)  

Prince George’s County and Amazon will fund affordable housing in Hyattsville

A developer in Prince George’s County will receive assistance from both the County Department of Housing and Community Development and Amazon to build affordable housing at the West Hyattsville Metro station. Half of the new units will be reserved by tenants with income below 80% of the area median income.  (Jeff Clabaugh / WTOP)  

Community arts partnerships in Fairfax will continue in 2023

ArtsFairfax, the nonprofit arts agency for Fairfax County, has extended a collaboration with Tysons Corner Center to host art installations from local and international artists. Tysons Corner Center will also open additional exhibits this year.  (Angela Woolsey / FFXNow)  

Last call for pandemic rent assistance in Montgomery County

Montgomery County still has $17.5 million to give out in short-term rental assistance caused by pandemic-related financial troubles. Applications will be accepted until January 13. To date, $92.8 million has been distributed to 11,905 households.  (Apps Bichu / Bethesda Magazine)  

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