Breakfast links: Restore the region

DC’s empty buildings

Many DC neighborhoods contain more than a few vacant homes.  As district leaders craft legislative fixes to address the issue, some developers worry that any proposed changes may hurt investors.  (WAMU)

Admitting it is the first step

WMATA interim general manager Jack Requa admitted that poor service and safety concerns may have led to lower ridership. This is the first time WMATA has publicly acknowledged poor service as a possible reason. (WAMU)

ANC recall failed

An effort by a Kathy Henderson-led group to unseat three popular Northeast DC ANC commissioners failed to gather enough petition signatures to force a recall election. (Trinidad Neighborhood Association)

More density in Bethesda

New development and more density is potentially in the works in Bethesda near the downtown Metro station. New images showing the new development’s scale, delighted local property owners. (Bethesda Beat)

Mobile seniors

Fairfax is teaching older adults how to use public transit. Seniors who have used cars most of their lives need to learn how to use buses and Metro to feel more confident and independent when they can no longer drive. (Post)

School disparities

A majority of DC’s charter schools enroll fewer at-risk students than DCPS schools with large disparities east of the Anacostia River. This renews the debate over who benefits most from charter schools. (District Measured, Post)

DIY Education

Facing concerns over public schools and sky-high tuition at private schools, more DC parents are opting to home-school their children.  A bevy of resources and support groups make this option more accessible. (Post)

Harris finds foes

Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), who last year barred the District from legalizing marijuana, is facing two GOP challengers in his 2016 reelection bid, both of whom have publicly denounced his stance on pot. (Post, Baltimore Sun)

Work together on crime

Federal agents are teaming up with MPD to help address the recent surge in crime.  The new task force will focus on key neighborhoods and repeat-offenders. (Post)

And…

Many prehistoric ferns call Metro’s damp, leaky underground tunnels home. (WAMU) … Large college towns provide an excellent model on economic development and smart growth. (Daily Beast) … Fairfax car repair shops complain the police are targeting them for parking tickets. (Post)