Breakfast links: WMATA and Richmond

Gunn to look at Metro

WMATA will bring in former General Manager David Gunn, who also ran Amtrak, New York’s MTA, SEPTA and others, to assess the problems with the agency and how to fix them. Smart move by the Board. (Post)

Snow buries budget

WMATA’s budget for the current fiscal year is in trouble again after the snowstorm drastically cut ridership and cost millions in snow removal. (Examiner)

Arlington musters more for Metro

Arlington’s proposed budget increases WMATA funding by $1.5 million amid other budget cuts. If other jurisdictions matched proportionally, that would yield about $15 million, good to stave off about 5¢ of fare increase but not the $40M WMATA suggested. (Michael P)

Bike-hating legislators

Why did the 3-foot passing bill fail in Virginia, even though it just matches other states’ standards? The usual “cyclists break laws” attitude, mostly; also, the Republican caucus decided to go against cyclists. (VA Bicycling Federation)

Driver assaults good Samaritan

A Loudoun driver got mad at delays after another driver stopped to help push a disabled vehicle. He stepped on the gas and forced the good Samaritan to jump on the hood to get out of the way. Police charged the driver with felony assault and reckless driving. (Post) … I guess the Virginia Legislature will now refuse to pass any laws that help any drivers, since they can’t act responsibly?

Carpooling only for civilians?

Both Virginia houses have passed a bill to let active military use HOV lanes, though only around Hampton Roads and not in NoVA. Tipster Tim notes that Pentagon employees actually pioneered slugging, and this bill sends the message that carpooling isn’t so important. (WVEC, Tim)  (Tip: Tim)

Balancing budget on the backs of bikes

WABA argues that Montgomery County’s bicycle program cuts disproportionately impact cycling more than their share of the budget or their share of overall trips. (TheWashCycle)

Drive exactly 55!

Some Georgia legislators, annoyed by slow drivers in the left lane, want to outlaw driving below the speed limit in the left lane. It’s dumb for so many reaasons. Does that mean it’ll be illegal to drive any speed except the exact speed limit? And what about traffic? (How We Drive)