By Libby Solomon (Writer and Editor) • January 27, 2021
The Maryland General Assembly kicked off its 2021 lawmaking session on January 13. Between now and April 12, lawmakers will be racing to get bills passed during a time of unprecedented challenge for the state during the pandemic. But despite those challenges, transportation works on a long-term cycle, and lawmakers focused on transportation can’t lose sight of longer-term projects and funding challenges facing the state’s transportation systems.
By Wyatt Gordon (The Virginia Mercury ) • January 27, 2021
Gov. Ralph Northam’s recent budget allocation of $50 million to extend intercity passenger rail service from Roanoke to the New River Valley is just the latest in a long line of sizable investments his administration has made into the future of rail in the commonwealth, including a $3.7 billion dollar track acquisition deal with CSX and the launch of the Long Bridge project. However, the Greater Washington Partnership — a business community think tank — says a new regional rail vision that includes Maryland, Washington and the federal government is crucial to maximizing Virginia’s investments.
Say goodbye to the easiest excuse to hang up on someone, at least on Metro. After more than a decade, cell service is now available throughout all of Metro’s tunnels. Riders can now stream services such as Netflix or scroll through Instagram, and importantly, call for help in emergencies while underground. (Jordan Pascale / DCist. Tip: Chester B.)
DC’s first Office of Racial Equity will coordinate with lawmakers to ensure racial equity is accounted for when writing legislation, examining every bill to see if it helps or harms historically marginalized groups. (Martin Austermuhle / DCist)
Maryland officials have chosen to add four new high-occupancy toll lanes (two in each direction) as the “preferred alternative” of the Capital Beltway and I-270 expansion project. The state also committed to adding sidewalks, bike paths, and trail connections as part of the project. (Katherine Shaver / Post)
Drivers on eight Arlington residential streets will soon get additional $200 fines for speeding as part of the county’s Vision Zero plan. (Matt Blitz / ARLNow)
Mayor Bowser introduced legislation that would create areas where patrons can drink alcohol from bars and restaurants while walking around outside. The new legislation also incentivizes grocers to open in Wards 7 and 8 by allowing them to sell a limited amount of alcohol. (Laura Hayes / City Paper)
After delays caused by the pandemic, lawsuits, and data errors, the US Census Bureau announced that it hopes to deliver state population totals to the commerce secretary by April 30. (Brittany Renee Mayes / Post)
