Breakfast links: Arlington’s $10 million plan to boost ART bus ridership
An ART bus by Elyse Horvath used with permission.
Arlington needs $10 million to improve bus service; $130-$180 million to convert to zero emission buses
Arlington Transit ridership peaked in 2017, and the agency seeks to lure those riders back with a ten-year, $10 million plan focused on service improvement. Meanwhile, the move to zero-emission buses is estimated at $130-$180 million and some criticize it as too expensive and not worth the trade-offs. (Jo DeVoe / ARLNow)
Potomac Yard development could cost taxpayers $1.15 billion
The Potomac Yard redevelopment funding mechanisms may leave federal and state taxpayers to foot $1.15 billion of the bill, based on an economic study commissioned by The Washington Post. Rep. Don Beyer opposes the use of tax-exempt federal bonds for the stadium, while State Sen. L. Louise Lucas asserted that she would not vote for this use of state tax dollars before other priorities. (Matt Small / WTOP)
Local forests at risk of imminent failure due to deer overpopulation and invasive plants
According to an ecological study published this year, forests in the Washington region face a critical threat as regeneration processes break down, with nine out of 11 local parks studied at risk of imminent or probable failure. The main culprits are an overpopulation of deer and an invasion of fast-growing non-native plants that decimate tree seedlings. (DCist)
DC Councilmember Vincent Gray announces he will not seek reelection
Vincent Gray, Ward 7 DC Councilmember and former mayor, announced that he will not pursue reelection in 2024. The 81-year-old politician will conclude nearly two decades of public service when his term expires in January 2025. Gray cited health concerns stemming from a stroke two years ago as a factor in his decision. (Jessica Kronzer / WTOP)
Maryland climate commission annual report released with recommendations for action
The Maryland Commission on Climate Change’s recently released annual report outlines recommendations, including expanding incentives for electric vehicles, reducing property tax for decarbonization, and aligning state spending with climate goals, to address climate change. The commission’s political influence has increased recently and its recommendations may offer a hint at how the Moore Administration will tackle climate change. (Josh Kurtz / Maryland Matters)
Fleischmann’s vinegar plant in Baltimore shuts down amid pollution lawsuits
The owner of Baltimore’s Fleischmann’s Vinegar plant, Kerry Group, announced a production shutdown last week amidst lawsuits alleging pollution in the Jones Falls stream. Maryland regulators and environmental advocates have separately sued the company over documented pollution incidents, including a 2021 fish kill. (This article is behind a paywall). (Christine Condon / Baltimore Sun)
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