By Caitlin Rogger (Policy Manager) • September 16, 2020
Metro’s recent restoration of most of its bus and rail services means more people can get where they need to be. How do Metro’s safety measures stack up against current evidence for how to protect riders and operators from COVID-19, and what do expected budget cuts mean for safety?
A survey conducted by Commuter Connections found that employers in DC, Maryland, and Virginia saw the average share of teleworking employees increase from 36% to 82% during the pandemic. Of the employers surveyed, 57% anticipate telework levels to remain high after the pandemic compared to the amount before the pandemic. (Dick Uliano / WTOP)
New documents reveal that station leadership at WAMU tried to fire Martin Di Caro, a reporter accused by multiple people of sexual harassment, as early as 2016. The move was overruled by American University’s legal and human resources departments. The university rebukes this, saying department heads were in charge of “disciplinary actions.” (Rachel Kurzius / DCist. Tip: Chester B.)
Since the pandemic, 36 commercial vehicles have crashed on the “Big Curve” of the Capital Beltway. Highways officials are now trying to figure out how they can stop these trucks from crashing. (Bruce Leshan / WUSA9)
More businesses are opening under Phase 2 of Prince George’s County coronavirus guidelines. Prince Geoge’s County will allow Indoor pools, meeting rooms, tanning salons, and vape shops to reopen with capacity limits. Also, youth sports can proceed in small groups. (Valerie Bonk / WTOP)
The Arlington County Board voted against extending an ordinance established to enforce social distancing during the pandemic. The ordinance would allow police to fine groups of four or more people in crowded spaces. Critics of the ordinance cite that it could harm businesses in the long term. They also noted it was too broad and could be enforced disproportionately against people of color. (Andrew Giambrone / DCist)
Residents living in Congress Park Apartments in Southeast DC went without water for five days and are asking the city government for help. While the water has since been turned back on residents are now saying the water is tainted. (Michael Quander / WUSA9)
Over 400 people have signed a petition to save the Silver Spring Plaza Fountain that’s at risk of being removed as part of a plan to revitalize downtown Silver Spring. The petition also criticizes other planned changes for Ellsworth Drive such as the use of synthetic turf and the placement of benches and tables that would that could keep skateboarders and bikers away. (Suzanne Pollak / mymcmedia)
