Breakfast links: Biking for the win

Bike sharing helps close gender gap

Women are much more likely to use bike share than to cycle in general because it addresses many of the commonly cited barriers for potential female cyclists like comfort and accessibility. (Atlantic Cities)

Texas cities get it

In one of the most car dependent states, some Texas cities like El Paso, Austin, Dallas and Houston are embracing cycling  by building bike share systems and improved biking infrastructure as a way to curb obesity and to promote economic development. (The Texas Tribune)

Metro train kills student

A 21-year-old George Mason University student was struck and killed by a Metro train between the Ballston and East Falls Church stops, becoming the seventh person struck by a train this year. (Post)

MoCo pedestrian safety

Crashes involving pedestrians in parking lots increased in Montgomery County, accounting for 30% of pedestrian crashes in 2012. The county will allot more to safety programs like the “stings” earlier this year. (Gazette)

Should DC listen to retailers?

Wegmans says they will only come to Walter Reed with their preferred developer, and Walmart is threatening to back out of DC over the living wage bill. But both could be bluffing. How should DC respond? (City Paper)

Developer still thinks it’s TOD

The developer of the proposed project in Loudoun between two Silver Line stations contends it will be more multi-modal than 95% of suburban development.  (WBJ)

HOT lane decision-making

A new study finds rising HOT lane toll costs actually attracted more commuters despite only saving between 1-3 minutes, making the effective toll rate $60-$120. (Atlantic Cities)

And…

A Metrobus rider spits on a driver, but gets away. (Post) … Ocean City credits a new crab mascot with improved pedestrian safety. (WAMU) .. The historic Dunbar High School gets a new building. (WTOP)