Breakfast links: What role will technology play in preventing future Metro collisions?
A Metro train by Rebecca Selah licensed under Creative Commons.
Metro looks for tech solutions to help address operator error
After initial findings point to operator error as the culprit behind Metro’s October 7 train collision, WMATA officials are exploring ways that technology can help prevent future incidents, such as another system control after a train has been ordered to stop completely. (Justin George / Post, Max Smith / WTOP)
A teen has died after being stabbed on Metro
Early Saturday, a 15-year-old boy died after being stabbed while riding a Metro train on October 11 near the Capitol South station. A 15-year-old girl was arrested and has since been charged with first-degree murder. (Tom Jackman / Post)
DC joins an international declaration to reduce air pollution
At the C40 World Mayors Summit, DC joined 34 cities in a declaration to implement new clean air policies by 2025. The delcaration sets pollution reduction targets and requires participating cities to publicly share their progress. (Andrew Giambrone / Curbed DC)
More questions arise after last week’s Metro crash
Following the October 7 Metro collision, WMATA officials are looking into why the railcars were allowed to move despite automatic systems saying they shouldn’t. They’re also investigating why it took 20 minutes for first responders to arrive on the scene of the collision. (Max Smith / WTOP)
Fairfax may cut some mall parking spaces
After a recent analysis found less than 65% of parking spaces in the region’s malls are occupied at peak times, Fairfax County is looking into reducing parking at four malls, including the two largest ones in Tysons. (Catherine Douglas Moran / Tysons Reporter)
Plans to widen I-270 could make congestion worse
Governor Larry Hogan’s highway-widening project will likely start with I-270. Experts warn, however, that widening I-270 without first widening the Capital Beltway will bring more traffic into the latter and create backups on both highways. (Katherine Shaver / Post)
Solar panels on a historic DC home spark debate
DC’s Historic Preservation Review Board approves most requests for solar panel installations, but it recently denied a request for front-facing panels on the grounds that they were too visible. Many community members disagree and say sustainability should be prioritized. (Rachel Kurzius / DCist)
The rise of slow-speed automated shuttles
Fully autonomous vehicles have numerous hurdles to clear before they become more common on roadways, such as how to navigate around pedestrians. However, low-speed automated shuttles in Reston and elsewhere are working well. (Ian Duncan / Post)
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