Breakfast links: Bowser announces new housing push in Rock Creek West

LinksBy Libby Solomon (Former Managing Editor) December 17, 2021

Multi-unit building in Cleveland Park by Ian Livingston licensed under Creative Commons.

Bowser announces ‘roadmap’ to build housing in DC’s wealthiest corner

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced a new “roadmap” involving a series of incentives to get developers to build new housing west of Rock Creek Park, the wealthiest and whitest area of the District. Tools include the Housing Production Trust Fund, incentives for churches to build affordable housing, and incentives to add affordability covenants to existing housing (an idea also found in a bill introduced by DC Councilman Robert White, who is running for mayor, earlier this year.)   (Martin Austermuhle / DCist. Tip: Chester B.)

What 7000-series reinstatement means for Metro

Metro is gradually reinstating its sidelined 7000-series trains after a plan was approved for regularly inspecting them for wheel safety issues. But given staffing and other concerns, the timeline for a return to full service levels isn’t clear, and some riders’ trust is shaken.  (Justin George / Post)

COVID-19 case numbers are up and rising

COVID-19 cases are rising across the Washington region heading into Christmas and the new year as the Omicron variant rears its head. Hospitalizations are also up and some hospitals are reporting being overwhelmed with patients.  (Sophia Barnes / NBC4)

DC grapples with traffic safety after kids struck by drivers

Multiple children were struck by drivers in the last week, and after a year in which young DC children — 5-year-old Allison Hart and 4-year-old Zyaire Joshua — were killed by drivers, calls for change have reached a fever pitch.  (Post)

DUI arrests are up in Alexandria

As we approach the end of the year, Alexandria’s DUI arrest count is 34% higher than last year — likely largely due to restaurant and bar closures and police minimizing interactions in the early days of the pandemic.  (James Cullum / ALXnow)

Wheeler Road is getting a road diet after multiple crashes

The Distric Department of Transportation will narrow Wheeler Road in Southeast DC after multiple children were injured by drivers on the road in the past few months. The road will go from four lanes to two in an effort to slow down drivers.  (Jordan Pascale / DCist)

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