Breakfast links: A difference of opinions

Tyranny of the minorty

The Examiner’s bike-hating and plenty opinionated opinion contributor has moved on to transit hatred in another one of the usual kooky screeds about how any government policy other than building everything for cars, all the time is insane. WashCycle patiently rebuts.

Back and forth on parking minimums

In the most mild-mannered war of words the internet has seen in a while, Cato’s Randal O’Toole responds to Donald Shoup’s response to O’Toole’s original reaction to Tyler Cowen’s op-ed about Shoup’s book. Did you follow all that? (Michael Perkins)  (Tip: Michael Perkins)

Political soap opera

If Kwame Brown wins his bid for DC Council Chair, who will run to replace him? Plus, an interesting possibility: Independent-in-name-only Michael A. Brown could switch back to being a Democrat. (Washington City Paper)

Trading barbs

DCist quoted Mayoral candidate Vincent Gray calling parking rates “outrageous” during yesterday’s debate, making Matt Yglesias worry Gray might “undo the controversial Fenty-era education and transportation reforms.” Gray also called out Mayor Fenty for his sluggish implementation of inclusionary zoning. (DCist, Steven Yates)  (Tip: Steven Yates)

The road not driven

EcoVelo has a different way of thinking about bicycling miles that could help cement cycling as active transportation, not just recreation. (Rob Pitingolo)  (Tip: Rob Pitingolo)

Ban overboard

The California Senate rejected a statewide ban on plastic shopping bags. Unlike DC’s per-bag fee, the law would have banned all single-use plastic bags at groceries, large pharmacies and major retailers that sell food. (USA Today)  (Tip: Erik W)

Feet in an actual street

An “Open Streets” event in Madison, WI (city of 235,000; metro of 561,000) drew more than 50,000. Compare this with DC’s “Feet in the Street,” which drew small numbers in a park last weekend because HSEMA’s rules wouldn’t allow one on a regular street. (Alliance for Biking & Walking)