Breakfast links: Metro certifying operators to start automatic door opening
Doors on a 7000-series Metro train by Jeff Vincent licensed under Creative Commons.
WMATA begins certifying operators for automatic door operation
Metro started certifying some Red Line operators in automatic door use this week. The system, which uses platform signals to determine which side doors should open, has been tested off-hours without issues. It eliminates a 15-second manual door-check and opening process performed over 20,000 times daily. (Suzanne Pollak / Montgomery Community Media)
DC closed rental assistance program applications after just 10 days
DC’s ERAP provides aid to low-income residents facing housing emergencies, covering back rent or offering funds for relocation. The program reopened October 1 after shutting down in March due to a surge in applications. However, it closed again just 10 days later because of high demand. (Annemarie Cuccia / DCist)
Howard County executive introduces housing affordability measures
In response to a 23% surge in rents over three years, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball has unveiled the HOME Package, aiming to alleviate housing costs for residents. Key initiatives include rent control, conversions to affordable units and tax incentives. Some housing advocates worry that the plan doesn’t go far enough, citing no restrictions on exemptions to new construction projects, among other concerns. (This article is behind a paywall) (Baltimore Banner)
Capital Bikeshare stations added, planned at the Potomac Yard Metro station
Capital Bikeshare has worked with WMATA to place a new bikeshare station on Potomac Avenue in Alexandria on the western side of the station. They also plan to place one on the east side of the station adjacent to Potomac Gardens at a later date. (Vernon Miles / ALXNow)
Maryland Highway Administration cited related to death of six workers
Maryland’s Occupational Safety and Health office cited the State Highway Administration for a “serious” violation linked to the deaths of six highway workers on the Baltimore Beltway. The agency investigated a March collision which saw the driver of a car veer into a work zone, finding a lack of clear traffic control signs warning of the work zone. (This article is behind a paywall). (Alexus Davila / Baltimore Banner)
Childcare center joins redevelopment of former Lorton prison into mixed-use arts and entertainment complex
Brynmor Early Education & Preschool opened this week in the former maximum security Lorton Reformatory. The prison complex has been developed into the Workhouse Arts Center and Liberty Market, housing 352 residential units, retail businesses, and the 156-child center. (Vernon Miles / FFXnow)
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