Breakfast links: Inner city blues

East of the river’s self-fulfilling prophecy

After a meeting on the topic, “Is Congress Heights a ghetto?” community members walked outside to discover a fatal shooting. (CHOTR)

Howland can’t use transportation the rest of us do

DPW Director Bill Howland says he needs a city-owned vehicle and driver because it’s too hard to get to meetings by transit, and too hard to park near the Wilson Building. Tommy Wells was not impressed. (Examiner)

Right-to-Life Metro

Since start of 2009, 24 people have attempted to take their life within Metro. With less than 17% of front-line workers trained in prevention methods, officials recognize the need for intervention. (Examiner)

Driver assaults group of cyclists on parkway

A driver on the GW Parkway sped in front of a group of cyclists, then slammed on his brakes. One cyclist ended up under the car, but unhurt; the driver then sped away. (DCist)

Can we get streetscape relief right?

Same story: Streetscape improvements come to a neighborhood, disrupting businesses that then close. The improvements finish, but the businesses are no more. Can this change? (Housing Complex)

How long is your commute?

A new poll looks at the amount of time commuters spend in their cars. City residents have the shortest commute, Maryland residents travel longer distances, and Virginians spend more time on the road. (WTOP)

MD redistricting advances

Maryland’s gerrymandered redistricting plan passed the state Senate over objections by Rep. Donna Edwards (D), good government, and community groups. Its fate could be decided in court. Governor O’Malley tries to focus on his proposal to raise the state gas tax instead. (Post)

Charm City removes bike lane; community asks why?

Baltimore’ DOT has changed it’s tune and is caving to demands by people who can’t be bothered to not drive cars in a West Baltimore bike lane. A community group wants to know why they weren’t warned? (Baltimore Brew)

And…

The fight between NVTC and VA Governor is over. (Examiner) … Prince George’s voters vote to replace Leslie Johnson. (Post) … The only hospital east of the river is may have a surplus for first time in a decade. (WBJ)