Breakfast links: How to talk about mobility

Transportation alternatives a social justice issue

The politics of alternative transportation modes have become divisive in DC. We need to remind ourselves and others that sustainable transportation options is a basic social justice issue. (RPUS)

Cycling with the right

A Virginia Republican cyclist offers a crash course in talking to conservative politicians about cycling.  Remember, you want to ride a bike, but don’t care how other people live their lives. (Commute by Bike)

Klein restored transportation balance

Dr. Gridlock defends Gabe Klein against a very whiny letter writer who laments that trips in and out of our “commuter city” are far more difficult because of Klein and his boss. (Post)

Assault on red line, train operator does nothing

After some teens assaulted a man on the Red Line, riders reported it using the emergency call box, but the operator did nothing, nor did an employee on the platform at the next station. (TBD)

Developments at Walter Reed

The GSA has relinquished its claim to 30 acres on the Walter Reed campus. Maybe now the city can fit a bus garage, or a relocated juvenile detention and rehab center, as Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin (D) has proposed, when they take over the site next year. (Post, Cavan)  (Tip: Cavan)

The rich have it tough

After taxes, retirement & college savings, health care, and every other imaginable expense, including $5,000/year for house cleaning, an area family making $250,000 would have only $12,000 in “discretionary income.” The article assumes this family owns two cars and drives them to work every day. (Post, Dave R.)  (Tip: Dave R.)

DC’s parking tax a sticky political situation

Some DC residents and pols have suggested raising the parking tax to help close the city’s budget gap. The city’s parking lobby, though, is well organized and has a history of making its voice heard. (Post)

Alexandria’s new waterfront plan

Tonight at the waterfront United Way building, Alexandria will reveal plans to build a new pier at the end of King Street, hoping to create a new public space to draw people to the riverfront from Old Town. (WAMU)

And…

Arlington rejected a request by two companies to put more cabs on the street. (Post) … After a year-long saga, Hank’s Oyster Bar in Dupont has won permission to expand. (Borderstan) … Is it irresponsible for parents to transport their children by bike? The Ethicist says no. (NYT, Eric Fidler)  (Tip: Eric Fidler)