Here's our roundup of "must-read" posts from the week:
Facing dire budget cuts during the coronavirus pandemic, Metro asked riders to weigh in on its options during a public hearing. Here's a hint: none of the options are great.
Speaking of Metro problems, a Red Line train carrying more than 100 passengers pulled apart last week, leaving the last six cars of the eight car train on the tracks between Union Station and NoMa-Gallaudet University. The incident is being investigated by the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission.
Montgomery County pedestrians are faring better, with a block of Newell Street in Silver Spring closed to cars this fall to act as a "playstreet." But the magnet for dog walkers and hopscotch could be at the end of its days as the county considers whether to keep it going.
Here's a question we think about a lot: What counts as the Greater Washington region anyway? We consider some of the competing definitions (with maps, obviously).
Finally, read an update on how GGWash is faring financially during these trying pandemic days — and consider helping us find a more secure footing.
By Stephen Repetski (Editorial Board Alum) • October 15, 2020
Riders, the public, and elected officials are being asked to weigh in as the Metro’s Board of Directors considers how to close a major hole in the agency’s budget caused by the Coronavirus pandemic. Metro’s Chief Financial Officer says the agency needs to cut $212 million from the agency’s $2 billion budget and will have to significantly cut service to do so.
By Stephen Repetski (Editorial Board Alum) • October 13, 2020
Riders faced a roughly five-hour service suspension on Metro’s Red Line between Gallery Place and Rhode Island Avenue Friday after two cars of a train pulled apart unexpectedly. One hundred and eight passengers were aboard the 8-car 6000-series train during the ordeal, and DC firefighters evaluated two people for possible injuries.
By Alison Gillespie (Advocacy Committee) • October 13, 2020
In September, Montgomery County got its first “playstreet” when the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) closed down one block of Newell Street, and effectively doubled the size of a small park near Silver Spring’s Metro station. Now, residents who have loved riding bikes, eating picnics, and walking their dogs in the expanded open space are afraid it may be taken away.
By Stephen Hudson (Contributor) • October 14, 2020
Is Fredericksburg part of Greater Washington? How about Frederick? Defining our region is tricky – and a little whimsical –but here are some ways we can look at it.
The coronavirus and associated economic recession have wreaked havoc on our communities’ health, our emotional well-being, many people’s household finances, and also many nonprofits. Greater Greater Washington isn’t about to have to close its doors, but in keeping with our practice of financial transparency, we wanted to give you an update of where things are — and how you can help.
