Breakfast links: Transit agencies and airports throughout the region make masks optional after federal ruling
WMATA Metro Center Station by Elvert Barnes licensed under Creative Commons.
Masks are now optional on transit systems and airports throughout the region
After two years of mask mandates, a federal judge in Florida overturned the CDC’s extension of the requirement for public transportation through May 3. News of the announcement drew both hesitancy and excitement as TSA stated masks would be optional, affecting all airports in the region. Meanwhile, late Monday night, Metro also announced it would also make masks optional, with Maryland’s MTA following suit on Tuesday morning. (Abby Isaacs / WMAR, WJLA, WJLA)
Elections board says McDuffie is ineligible for AG race
After more than an hour of deliberation, the DC Board of Elections ruled that Ward 5 councilmember Kenyan McDuffie cannot run for DC Attorney General due to a clause that says the AG must have been “actively engaged” in DC as a practicing attorney, judge, law school professor or attorney employed in DC by the city or country for five of the past 10 years before taking office. (Michael Brice-Saddler / Post. Tip: Chester B.)
DC housing advocates push for more money in mayor’s budget
Among their requests: $17.33 million for the Local Rent Supplement Program, additional money to continue subsidies for DC’s Rapid Rehousing program beyond September, and $300,000 more for the homelessness diversion program Project Reconnect. (Annemarie Cuccia / DC Line)
Report: National Landing could become the region’s fastest growing neighborhood in 10 years
According to a study from the National Landing BID, the new-ish Virginia neighborhood which includes parts of Crystal City, Pentagon City, and Pentagon Row could beat out Capitol Riverfront for the title of the fastest-growing district, fueled by $12 billion in public and private investment. (Jeff Clabaugh / WTOP)
Arlington’s Jennie Dean Park is almost ready to open
After a prolonged design and construction process, the seven-decade-old park is slated to open in mid-May. Situated along Four Mile Run, across from Shirlington, the renovated park will include revamped all-gender restrooms, a space for picnics, two baseball fields, a basketball and tennis courts, plus new public art. (Matt Blitz / ARLnow)
A new way to board Alexandria’s DASH buses
With no more bus fares, passengers can enter buses through the front or rear doors, which officials believe will offer faster, more reliable service. People who typically have difficulties getting on buses are encouraged to continue using the front door so they can access a ramp for assistance. (Vernon Miles / ALXnow)
Arlington County considers $1 surcharge for taxi rides
To mitigate challenges for cab drivers, such as rising gas prices, the Arlington County Board is considering implementing a $1 surcharge for taxi rides from June 1 through Nov. 30, 2022. Currently, passengers pay $3 to begin a trip and $2.16 per mile thereafter. The decision could go for a vote on May 14. (Brandi Bottalico / ARLnow)
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