Breakfast links: The region’s air quality has significantly improved in the last 25 years
Aerial image of the National Mall in August of 2022 by Beyond DC licensed under Creative Commons.
Washington region’s air quality is improving
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments announced that the region’s air quality over the last three years has improved to the best since 1997 with only three days of minimal air sensitivity (a.k.a Code Orange) days this calendar year. Reductions in power generation and transportation emissions contribute to the improvements. (Kristi King / WTOP)
Prince George’s County will embed racial equity into policymaking
Prince George’s County will adopt a racial equity framework for lawmaking and policymaking. Equity analyses will be part of the county’s budgeting, lawmaking, and oversight processes. The county will start with a baseline report that documents existing racial socioeconomic disparities. (Jenny Gathright / DCist)
Fairfax County considers policy to preserve affordable housing
Fairfax County has proposed a policy to preserve existing affordable rental housing. It would require developers to replace affordable housing on sites where it’s been eliminated. The proposal is open for public feedback until October 28. (Vernon Miles / FFXNow)
Bowser highlights programs benefitting older adults in DC
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser attended the 15th anniversary of the Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center and highlights new budget items that will benefit older, longtime DC residents. She announced several new or expanded programs, including expanded transportation access for seniors, a new grocery card pilot program, and free dental services. (ABC7)
MoCo Council will hold final vote on Thrive 2050 on October 25
Additionally, this week council members approved one additional amendment to the plan to identify River Road between DC and the Beltway as part of a growth corridor to allow the possibility of transit and future development. Some council members say this week’s amendment and the overall plan represent the embrace of future demographic change. (Steve Bohnel / Bethesda Beat)
New Arlington survey documents travel trends since pandemic onset
A survey of Arlington County residents found that 7 in 10 were satisfied with the county’s transportation options. Satisfaction varies: it is highest among those who live along the Rosslyn-Ballston and Route 1 corridors. Two-thirds said they don’t feel safe biking in traffic. It also found that more than half of residents walk more now compared to before the pandemic. (ARLNow / Joe DeVoe)
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