Car blocking bus stop on H Street NW by Joe Flood licensed under Creative Commons.

DC starts enforcing $100 fines for blocking bus stops

Today, November 15, DC starts fining drivers $100 for blocking bus stops as part of the Clear Lanes Initiative. Metrobuses on 31 routes with bus lanes are equipped with cameras to enforce the new rules. The initiative, delayed from September, is now fast-tracked by recent emergency legislation by the Council. Bus lane enforcement will begin at a future date to-be-announced.  (WUSA9)  

Baltimore City Council advances affordable housing bills despite pushback from Mayor

At a long-awaited hearing, members of the Baltimore City Council pushed for two bills, one focused on inclusionary zoning law and one tax credit for affordable housing, and advanced them to a second reading despite the Mayor asking for the bills to be tabled for additional study and review. (These articles are behind a paywall).  (Hallie Miller / Baltimore Banner, Baltimore Banner)  

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments strategizes on WMATA funding

The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) will release a report next month detailing three options for WMATA to consider to help address its $750M budget gap, including the possibility of using the transit agency’s preventative maintenance fund for short-term relief.  (James Cullum / ALXnow)  

Alexandria looking beyond speed limits in improving Seminary Road safety

After a speed limit reduction on Seminary Road in Alexandria failed to do enough to reduce crashes, the city is exploring other solutions, with officials raising the need for a more thorough study.  (Katie Lusso / WUSA9)  

Fairfax County Parkway to get three roundabouts

Construction is set to begin by the end of this year on a $49 million project to replace the Fairfax County Parkway and Popes Head Road interchange with three roundabouts and two bridges. The overhaul features new pedestrian paths and an extension of Ladues End Lane. Completion is anticipated by late 2026.  (Angela Woolsey / FFXnow)  

Maryland and Virginia Congressmembers disagree over FBI HQ decision

At a congressional hearing on Tuesday, lawmakers debated the General Services Administration’s decision to place the new FBI headquarters in Maryland, rather than Virginia. Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly raised concerns about the decision-making process, while Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin supported the decision. GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan defended the choice.  (Ariana Figueroa / Maryland Matters)  

Why the Bay Bridge is important

Rick Hutzell discusses the Chesapeake Bay Bridge’s significance and future. The article explores potential changes to the bridge, with options like a new structure or updates to the existing spans under consideration. Traffic challenges and increasing vehicle volume are key concerns. The state is conducting a study, due to conclude by 2026, to decide the best course of action. Hutzell emphasizes the bridge’s historical impact and its symbolic role in uniting people and fostering progress in Maryland. (This article is behind a paywall).  (Rick Hutzell / Baltimore Banner)  

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