DC ballot drop off box and Brilliant Cooper bicycle by Joe Flood licensed under Creative Commons.

DC Elections Board approves ballot measure for ranked choice voting and open primaries

The DC Elections Board unanimously approved a ballot initiative asking residents to decide if ranked choice voting and open primaries should be allowed in the District. Critics claim that these measures could be confusing or lead to unfair partisan influence, but supporters say it would strengthen the democratic process.  (Martin Austermuhle / DCist)  

MTA will hold information sessions about Baltimore’s proposed Red Line

The Maryland Transportation Administration is set to hold five meetings this week in community spaces to talk about Baltimore’s proposed Red Line corridor. Officials hope these sessions will address questions and concerns residents may have, as well as to garner feedback before construction begins. (This article is behind a paywall).  (Daniel Zawodny / The Baltimore Banner)  

Renting is getting more difficult in DC

The rental market is getting worse for people in DC, thanks to rising market prices, scam listings, shady landlords, and an overall drop in availability. Also of note is the lack of disability-accessible apartments, which creates fiercer competition.  (Morgan Baskin / DCist)  

Zoning changes could come to South Arlington to accommodate senior care facilities

Arlington County will consider changing its zoning ordinance to raise height limits for elder care facilities in South Arlington, with Pentagon City and Columbia Pike being prime targets. Some have raised concerns over how taller buildings will affect emergency evacuations, though existing facilities in Northern Virginia have been cited as templates.  (Jo DeVoe / ARLNow)  

Alexandria to begin construction on Del Ray Gateway by end of calendar year

The City of Alexandria announced its plans to begin construction on the long-awaited Del Ray Gateway before the end of 2023. Located by the now-closed Nicholas Colasanto Outdoor Pool on Mount Vernon Avenue, the project will turn the site into a public plaza.  (James Cullum / ALXNow)  

Montgomery County will receive federal funds to improve sidewalks and bike paths

The federal government will give Montgomery County $1.3 million in funds to support sidewalk and bike path projects. The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board plans to invest the funds in Equity Emphasis Areas (EEAs), including in Forest Glen, Gaithersburg, and Rockville.  (Aya Hussein / Montgomery Community Media)  

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