Breakfast links: Car-freedom

Car-Free Day is today!

Did you try a new way to get to work or school for Car-Free Day? Capital Bikeshare is offering $1 memberships, while pledging could win you a prize. (Post)

Put the phone down

Pedestrian deaths started increasing for the first time in 2010 and analysts believe using cell phones while crossing may be the reason. Can cell-phone lanes on sidewalks and awareness campaigns help? (Post)

The future of clean transport

A UN report finds that with better public transportation, transport emissions could be cut in half by 2050 while saving $100 trillion worldwide. Development banks can fund the necessary investment if politicians allow it. (BBC)  (Tip: Patrick B)

Fairfax County bicycle plan almost ready

Developed over 3 years, Fairfax’s bicycle plan plan intends to provide safe and convenient bicycle facilities and increase trips, which are currently at 0.4% of commutes. (WBJ)

Two birds, one stone

A group of architects proposes to use the large parking lots that surround public housing for more apartments, stores, or senior centers. The parking would be put into garages or eliminated altogether. (NYT)

River flows change MD/VA border

When the Potomac River exposed new land on the Virginia shore, a Maryland company claimed ownership. Now a court has decided that Maryland ends at the river’s edge, even when the edge shifts. (Wash. Times)

And…

The DC Board of Elections has yet to deliver a report on what caused delays in the April primary elections. (WJLA) … A Phoenix company has successfully 3-D printed a car. (Post) … After a long streak without bicycle fatality in the area, a cyclist was struck and killed in a hit and run near 8th and S, NW.  (WashCycle)