Breakfast links: Metro fire(d)

Fire in the hole

A track fire shut down the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station for nearly an hour during evening rush yesterday. The fire department said smoldering debris was the culprit. (Post)

Lots of layoffs for Metro

WMATA will cut 500 jobs in the coming months. General Manager Paul Wiedefeld says the positions, including some vacant ones, are no longer necessary for Metro’s mission. (DCist)

Blame it on mode share shift

Metro points to the rise of teleworking, biking, and walking to explain the 5 to 8% decrease in ridership since 2009. Although the region has added a lot of jobs, more people seem to be working closer to home. (WAMU)

Renters’ rights for Montgomery

Renters could soon have more rights in Montgomery County. The county council is working on a bill that would increase county property inspections and standardize lease terms. (WTOP)

DNC on board for DC statehood?

Statehood advocates may have the Democratic National Committee on board. A draft of the national platform shows support for DC statehood. (DCist)

Virginia is for pensioners

Arlington came in first on a list of best places to retire, ranking highly on low crime, walkability, culture, and low taxes. (DCist)

Housing or hotel?

Airbnb and similar services consume 10% of available housing in New York City, according to one study. The study also found that more than 55% of listings are illegal. (Guardian)