Breakfast links: Pedal power

Tourmobile versus pedicabs

Tourmobile is now arguing that the exclusive concession contract they have from by the Park Service prohibits both pedicabs and taxis from serving the Mall. NPS spokesperson Bill Line says since drivers drive poorly, there shouldn’t be pedicabs. (Post)

Bike bits

Jack Evans has come out in support of L and M Street cycle tracks (WABA) … Bicyclists as crime fighters? (Kate Ryan) … Don’t let Virginia (or Maryland or DC) hit bike & ped funds with federal recissions. (FABB) … A tree fell and killed a cyclist on the C&O Canal during Sunday’s fierce storm. (Examiner)

Will McDonnell make Metro appointment?

Bob McDonnell hasn’t yet appointed someone to the WMATA board after the Virginia legislature gave him the power. The Board of Trade doesn’t want him to wait for someone’s term to expire. Arlington might lose its voting seat, but they won’t go quietly. (Post)

Columbia Pike residents want everything

Arlington held a week-long design workshop to plan the future of Columbia Pike. Residents have a long wish list that includes streetcars, lower density development and affordable housing. (Examiner)

Light rail maker unveils hybrid streetcar

Streetcar manufacturer Kinkisharo introduced a hybrid streetcar capable of running 5 miles without overhead wires. Designed for the North American market, it might meet DC’s wire-free needs. (Mass Transit Magazine)

Maryland gets higher tolls

Maryland is raising tolls on the Bay Bridge and other roads because gas taxes aren’t producing enough revenue to cover the Intercounty Connector and other highway needs. (Examiner)

Will transit builder locate near transit?

Bechtel, the engineering and building firm helping to build the Silver Line, is looking to move to Northern Virginia from Frederick. Will they pick an office near the Silver Line? (WBJ)

Happy 4th!

Mayor Gray repeated his call for DC voting rights during 4th of July celebrations. (WUSA9) … MPD seized about $10,000 in illegal fireworks yesterday. (NBC4)