Breakfast links: Amtrak takes control of Union Station terminal
The interior of Union Station. Image by Daniel Kelly used with permission.
Amtrak now controls Union Station, plans to center rider experience
Amtrak has now taken control of the Union Station terminal following a court battle. The rail corporation intends to prioritize the passenger experience, including improvements to queueing, waiting areas, restrooms, and customer service areas. This is seen as standing in contrast to the recent prioritization of commercial and retail spaces, though the Amtrak CEO notes that commercial amenities (and the associated revenue) still have a key role to play. (This article may be behind a paywall.) (Danny Nguyen / Post)
Residents call for changes to make Maryland Route 210 safer
An arts center in Fort Washington, Prince George’s County, recently hosted a gathering to remember people who died in vehicle collisions on Maryland Route 210 and to push for increased enforcement against speeding. A state delegate has introduced legislation that would raise fines for people caught speeding along the route. (Dick Uliano / WTOP)
Fairfax County approves 50 new speed cameras in school zones
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recently approved the installation of 50 new speed cameras in school zones. The program is an extension of the successful initiative that saw nine speed cameras installed near schools in the county. (Vernon Miles / FFXNow)
MoCo Council could begin to consider zoning changes to boost housing supply this fall
According to Montgomery County Planning Department Director, the Montgomery County Council could begin to review a draft zoning text amendment as soon as this fall. Approved by the county planning board in June, the Attainable Housing Strategies initiative aims to increase the county’s housing supply by allowing duplexes, triplexes, and smaller apartment buildings to be built in previously single-family-only neighborhoods. (Ginny Bixby / MoCo360)
Alexandria approves changes to make Eisenhower Avenue safer
The Alexandria Traffic and Parking Board recently approved changes to Eisenhower Avenue that would implement no-turn-on-red restrictions and reduce the speed limit in the area around the Van Dorn Metro station. The board also approved a lower speed limit on on South Pickett Street between Duke Street and Edsall Road. (Vernon Miles / ALXnow)
New multifamily projects aim to reframe perception of Friendship Heights
Over the next five years, new residential developements will deliver 1,350 new housing units to Friendship Heights in Northwest DC, which hasn’t seen any new apartments built for the last 14 years. Local leaders and developers hope that these new projects will make Friendship Heights more accessible and allow more opportunities for young professionals and families to call the neighborhood home. (Jon Banister / Bisnow DC)
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