Between 1932, when Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected, and 1941, when the US entered the war, the District’s population rose by nearly 50%. This spike in population led to overloaded buses and streetcars, as well as severe automobile congestion. The city was in desparate need of transportation alternatives.
A look at the history of beer gardens. A new law in Seattle could mean more child care facilities in the city. How transportation planning was impacted by this broken algorithm, and more in this week’s National links.
With ridership only a fraction of its pre-pandemic levels, Metro says it’s losing $2 million per week. Without any additional federal aid, the transit agency will be forced to cut back on service, staff, and routes, with most of the cuts affecting Metrobus. (Justin George / Post)
Metropolitan Police Department officers ramped up its tactics on protesters in downtown Washington over the weekend by using chemical sprays and flash bangs. According to MDP, the officers’ actions were in response to protesters who were throwing projectiles at police at attempting to damage property. (Jenny Gathright / DCist)
On Saturday, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and members of the County Council issued a statement condemning Governor Larry Hogan’s comments that school districts should be opened for in-person learning. Elrich said the county will implement a hybrid in-person and virtual model once it’s safe. (Briana Adhikusuma / Bethesda Beat)
The March on Washington 2020 drew thousands of people from across the country, including those with memories of the original march in 1963. The event focused on police accountability reform and other civil rights matters. (DCist)
The median price of a home sold in the District of Columbia has risen to $640,000, a 10% increase from last year. Despite the pandemic, a low inventory combined with high demand has helped to keep the District’s housing marking strong. (Jeff Clabaugh / WTOP)
On Saturday, DC Fire and EMS personnel rescued a woman who was trapped in a elevator 80 feet below the Friendship Heights Metro station. First responders had to repel down the elevator shaft and lift the woman to safety using ropes. (Thomas Robertson / WTOP)
Top image: Metrobus service may feel the brunt of budget cuts, if Metro doesn't receive federal aid soon. Image by Mathew Friedman licensed under Creative Commons.
