By Conor Shaw (Guest Contributor) • December 16, 2021
The DC Council will soon take a final vote on new ward boundaries, setting the stage for part two of the process: redistricting Advisory Neighborhood Commissions.
Mayor Muriel Bowser announced a new “roadmap” involving a series of incentives to get developers to build new housing west of Rock Creek Park, the wealthiest and whitest area of the District. Tools include the Housing Production Trust Fund, incentives for churches to build affordable housing, and incentives to add affordability covenants to existing housing (an idea also found in a bill introduced by DC Councilman Robert White, who is running for mayor, earlier this year.) (Martin Austermuhle / DCist. Tip: Chester B.)
Metro is gradually reinstating its sidelined 7000-series trains after a plan was approved for regularly inspecting them for wheel safety issues. But given staffing and other concerns, the timeline for a return to full service levels isn’t clear, and some riders’ trust is shaken. (Justin George / Post)
COVID-19 cases are rising across the Washington region heading into Christmas and the new year as the Omicron variant rears its head. Hospitalizations are also up and some hospitals are reporting being overwhelmed with patients. (Sophia Barnes / NBC4)
Multiple children were struck by drivers in the last week, and after a year in which young DC children — 5-year-old Allison Hart and 4-year-old Zyaire Joshua — were killed by drivers, calls for change have reached a fever pitch. (Post)
As we approach the end of the year, Alexandria’s DUI arrest count is 34% higher than last year — likely largely due to restaurant and bar closures and police minimizing interactions in the early days of the pandemic. (James Cullum / ALXnow)
The Distric Department of Transportation will narrow Wheeler Road in Southeast DC after multiple children were injured by drivers on the road in the past few months. The road will go from four lanes to two in an effort to slow down drivers. (Jordan Pascale / DCist)
