Breakfast links: Amtrak adds more DC to NYC trains
Amtrak ridership in the Northeast grows, Baltimore recycling program relaunches, property owners seek rezoning in DC, Virginia stadium deal remains unresolved, clean-up begins at neglected cemetery, Alexandria to repave roads
Amtrak adding more round trips between DC and NYC
Amtrak experienced a significant increase in ridership in the Northeast corridor last year, with a nearly 30% growth compared to pre-pandemic levels. As a result, Amtrak has introduced six additional weekly train trips between DC's Union Station and New York City's Moynihan Station. The new routes also include extra trains running from Philadelphia to New York and Boston. Collectively, these additions offer over 1 million new seats for train service in the Northeast corridor.
This expansion is a positive sign of recovery and increased demand for rail travel in the region. It not only provides more transportation options for passengers but also boosts the economy and connectivity between cities.
(Source: WTOP)
Baltimore recycling returns today, after years of delay
After facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Baltimore's weekly recycling program is finally relaunching today. The program was temporarily stopped due to staffing issues and supply chain difficulties. The city has made significant improvements to the program, including the adoption of GPS navigation systems, new hires, and the introduction of narrower trucks that can navigate the city's alleys more easily.
The relaunch of the recycling program is an important step towards promoting sustainability and reducing waste in Baltimore. It allows residents to resume their recycling habits and contribute to a cleaner and greener city environment.
(Source: Baltimore Sun)
Property owners on 14th Street NW in DC seek rezoning for taller, denser buildings
A group of 25 property owners on 14th Street NW in DC have submitted a request to the District to rezone the area, allowing for taller and denser buildings. Currently, the height limit for buildings in the area is 40 feet, but the property owners are seeking an increase to 65 feet. This proposal comes after a nearby rezoning effort that enabled the construction of a 100+ unit apartment building at the Dance Loft site.
The request for rezoning reflects the growing demand for housing in the area and the need for increased density. By allowing taller buildings, the neighborhood can accommodate more residents and potentially address the housing shortage in the city.
(Source: Urban Turf)
Virginia gets closer to end of legislative session with no deal on stadium
The Virginia State Senator L. Louise Lucas, chair of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee, is refusing to include the Potomac Yards stadium deal in the state budget. It is unclear whether the Senator opposes public funding for the stadium on principle or if there are other political motivations behind her stance. With the regular General Assembly session ending soon, it seems unlikely that a deal will be reached before then.
The unresolved stadium deal raises questions about the future of the project and its impact on the local community. It highlights the complexities and challenges surrounding public funding for large-scale development projects.
(Source: Post)
