Breakfast links: If Congress doesn’t act, Metro isn’t the only transit system at risk
NoMa Metro and the US Capitol by BeyondDC licensed under Creative Commons.
Transit systems need federal aid
There is a Congressional stimulus proposal with $45 billion for transportation being discussed on the Hill. But if this bill, or one like it, doesn’t pass, WMATA will be just one of the systems in the country facing huge cuts thanks to low ridership during the pandemic. (Post)
Better legal protection for scooter riders in DC
The DC Council voted to include e-scooter users in the city’s existing definition of “vulnerable road users,” making it easier for them to collect damages for medical bills after a crash even if the driver is not a full 100% at fault. (Luz Lazo / Post)
Alexandria considers mandating affordable housing contributions
Alexandria’s Planning Commission is considering recommending the city codify the standing practice of having developers contribute to the affordable housing fund in order to receive zoning code exceptions for more density. (Vernon Miles / ALX Now)
Proposed Metro cuts would shock the region
Metro’s pandemic budget proposal to cut weekend service, stop running at 9 pm and close stations would be devastating for the local economy, upend the commutes of service and essential workers, and make it harder for kids to get to school. (DCist)
DC moves to create a Poverty Commission
The proposal to create a 19-person commission, at least eight of whom must be people living near the poverty line, to study issues affecting poverty in DC and make policy recommendations passed a first vote in the DC Council. (Jonquilyn Hill / DCist)
Counties are taking different paths for remote learning
Howard County annouced that it will not return to any in-person schooling until 2021 as Maryland’s COVID-19 cases spike. But in Virginia, Loudoun County is starting to bring about 7,000 elementary school students back to the classroom two days a week. (Alejandro Alvarez / WTOP, Neal Augenstien / WTOP)
Montgomery and Prince George’s have new Council leaders
Calvin S. Hawkins II will chair the Prince George’s County Council for the next term, while Tom Hucker will chair the Montgomery County Council. (Rachel Chason / Post, Rebecca Tan / Post)
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