Breakfast links: Keep scrolling — Metro tunnels all have cell service now
Image by BeyondDC licensed under Creative Commons.
“I’m going through a tunnel, you’re breaking up…”
Say goodbye to the easiest excuse to hang up on someone, at least on Metro. After more than a decade, cell service is now available throughout all of Metro’s tunnels. Riders can now stream services such as Netflix or scroll through Instagram, and importantly, call for help in emergencies while underground. (Jordan Pascale / DCist. Tip: Chester B.)
All DC legislation will now get a racial equity assessment
DC’s first Office of Racial Equity will coordinate with lawmakers to ensure racial equity is accounted for when writing legislation, examining every bill to see if it helps or harms historically marginalized groups. (Martin Austermuhle / DCist)
Maryland settles on four toll lanes for Beltway, I-270
Maryland officials have chosen to add four new high-occupancy toll lanes (two in each direction) as the “preferred alternative” of the Capital Beltway and I-270 expansion project. The state also committed to adding sidewalks, bike paths, and trail connections as part of the project. (Katherine Shaver / Post)
Additional fines for speeding are being added to some Arlington streets
Drivers on eight Arlington residential streets will soon get additional $200 fines for speeding as part of the county’s Vision Zero plan. (Matt Blitz / ARLNow)
Bowser’s booze bill looks to help DC recover from the pandemic
Mayor Bowser introduced legislation that would create areas where patrons can drink alcohol from bars and restaurants while walking around outside. The new legislation also incentivizes grocers to open in Wards 7 and 8 by allowing them to sell a limited amount of alcohol. (Laura Hayes / City Paper)
Census state population totals should be available by April 30
After delays caused by the pandemic, lawsuits, and data errors, the US Census Bureau announced that it hopes to deliver state population totals to the commerce secretary by April 30. (Brittany Renee Mayes / Post)
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