Breakfast links: Lawsuit may be deterring Missing Middle applications in Arlington
Residential buildings in Arlington by Jason OX4 licensed under Creative Commons.
One year since Missing Middle passed in Arlington, applications slow to a trickle
A year after Arlington’s Missing Middle zoning, also called Expanded Housing Options (EHO), was passed, applications for projects have slowed, with just three so far in 2024. Experts suggest that a pending lawsuit is likely causing developers to hold off. High interest rates and remaining zoning restrictions may also be playing a role. (Daniel Egitto / ARLnow)
37 citations, 5 arrests on first day of new fare evasion powers for police
Metro Transit Police issued 37 citations and made five arrests on the first day of a reformed fare evasion enforcement policy in the District. The new policy requires riders to present ID or provide their name and address to law enforcement if stopped for fare evasion so that a civil citation of up to $50 can be issued. Riders who do not comply can be arrested and have the fine doubled. Two of the people arrested had outstanding arrest warrants. (Matt Pusatory / WUSA9)
Senator Lucas holds firm against funding for arena in face of anticipated budget amendment by Governor Youngkin
Virginia Senate Finance Committee Chair Louise Lucas announced Tuesday that her answer is still “no” on a budget with an amendment from Governor Glenn Youngkin to finance the proposed arena complex at Potomac Yard. However, this could put other budget provisions at risk if the governor seeks to veto the budget without his provision in it. (This article is behind a paywall.) (Alan Kline / Business Journal)
New Metro railcar and electric bus expo begins today
Metro’s Fleet of the Future Expo, showcasing its new 8,000-series railcars and new electric buses, opens on the National Mall today and runs through April 3. Attendees can explore a mock-up railcar and provide feedback on the design. The new series has significant changes including more standing room, dedicated space for mobility devices, and heated floors. (Jamille Whitlow / NBC 4 Washington, Dave Leval / DC News Now, Post)
WABA launches Crash Tracker tool
The Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) has launched a “Crash Tracker” to report bike incidents like traffic crashes, near misses, and unsafe areas. Reports can be confidential and are sent to WABA to help shape the organization’s advocacy work. Individuals also have the option to share their report with the local department of transportation and elected officials. (Kevon Dupree / DC News Now, Neal Augenstein / WTOP)
Maryland House gives preliminary approval to transfer of toll revenue to transportation trust fund
Facing a $3 billion transportation deficit, the Maryland House of Delegates has given preliminary approval to a measure that would transfer $750 million in toll revenue over ten years to the Transportation Trust Fund, repaying $750 million that had previously been to construct the Intercounty Connector highway. (Bryan P. Sears / Maryland Matters)
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