Breakfast links: A city of contrasts

Gimme shelter

Residents of DC’s biggest homeless shelter, DC General, suffer from poor conditions, including pests, lack of hot water and heat, and lack of ventilation at the shelter. (DCist)

Council votes to decriminalize pot

The DC Council voted to decriminalize marijuana possession. If signed into law, possession would only mean a fine, but smoking in public would remain a criminal offense.  (Post)

Too noisy?

A group of Dupont residents who live near the nightclub hub at 18th and Connecticut are mobilizing to fight noise, but at least one ANC commissioner thinks they might expect too much quiet given where they live. (City Paper)

Washington Flyer fare falling

With the anticipated Silver Line about to take off, Washington Flyer buses linking Dulles airport and the Metro will reduce fares, increase service, and debut new buses. (Post)

House of worship to housing

One church in Columbia Heights is being turned into a 26-unit condo project. The project, in an effort to retain the facade, will save 40% of the building. (Urban Turf)

To build or not to build?

The last phase of development in Clarksburg could impact a reservoir that provides the region’s drinking water supply and undermine plans to build a walkable town center nearby. The Montgomery County Council will soon decide whether to allow it to go forward. (Post)

The psychology of cities

Scientists are mapping the brain’s response to things like open spaces and street grids, which could influence cities of the future. (Guardian)

More cyclists, more rule followers

New York’s investment in bikes is paying off in not just more riders, but also ones that are more likely to abide by laws. Cyclists are also now more likely to be female. (Atlantic Cities)

The cost of not investing

Not investing in system improvements like 8-car trains and bus corridor enhancements could cost the region 133,000 jobs and billions in property value over the next 3 decades. (PlanItMetro)

And…

Gentrification is displacing a gang in Los Angeles. (LA Times) … Cameras on Montgomery school buses will issue tickets  for drivers who pass the flashing stop sign. (Gazette) … A long-buried stream will come to the surface in Forest Hills. (Connection)  (Tip: Canaan)