Faregates at Fort Totten Metro station by Adam Fagen licensed under Creative Commons.

COG and WMATA hold first-ever joint board meeting to kickstart effort to fix WMATA’s funding challenges

A 20-person task force of political and government leaders from across the region makes up the new DMV Moves partnership between WMATA and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG). The DMV Moves task force was created to develop a sustainable funding model for WMATA and a plan for the future of transit in the region. Their work kicked off in the first-ever joint board meeting between COG and WMATA on May 1. (This article is behind a paywall) (Editor’s note: Tracy Hadden Loh, a WMATA board member and member of the task force, is also on the GGWash board of directors)  (Nate Doughty / Business Journal)  

No more “See station manager”: WMATA introduces enhanced Metrorail fare gate display

WMATA has unveiled upgraded Metrorail fare gate displays that provide detailed information when riders encounter issues with their SmarTrip cards. Gone are the cryptic “See a station manager” messages; instead, the new screens will indicate whether a card is deactivated, expired, or invalid, empowering customers to address problems independently. This initiative, part of WMATA’s $12.4 billion Capital Improvement Program, aims to enhance rider autonomy and reduce the need for staff intervention.  (Ana Golden / WTOP)  

Herndon approves plan for major growth near Metro station

Herndon Town Council recently approved a plan to transform the 94-acre Transit-Related Growth Area (TRG) near the Metro station into a mixed-use neighborhood. The plan, developed over two years of deliberation and community engagement, focuses on creating a transition zone between the Herndon Transit-oriented Core (HTOC) and adjacent residential areas. The plan proposes 5.4 million square feet of development including 2,789 residential units, and prioritizes pedestrian-friendly design and green spaces.  (Angela Woolsey / FFXnow)  

MTA announces public comment period for Baltimore area bus route changes

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has opened a public comment period for proposed changes to the Baltimore area’s bus routes, effective this fall. Residents can voice their opinions through July 8, with virtual public hearings on June 5 and June 6. Detailed plans and participation methods are available here, with changes set to launch on August 25. (This article is behind a paywall).  (Tony Roberts / Baltimore Sun)  

DC and Baltimore face rising costs, increased scope for lead pipe replacement efforts

In DC, the cost to replace lead water pipes has surged to $1.8 billion, a 260% increase over initial estimates, due to unexpected increases in the scope and cost of the project. Baltimore officials aim to check more than 275,000 water pipes for lead and, based on DC’s experience, are anticipating high costs. With federal funding insufficient, some of that cost may be passed onto residents through their water bills.  (Tolly Taylor / WBALTV)  

Which DC speed camera issues the most tickets?

Data from the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) reveals that the speed camera that issued the most tickets in the last quarter of 2023 is located on the northbound Potomac Freeway at 25th Street. It issued a staggering 33,682 tickets. DC plans to increase the number of speed cameras, and says the focus is on safety outcomes over revenue generation.  (Scott Gelman / WTOP)  

Fairfax County launches “Wonder Wagon” to bring nature exploration to urban communities

Fairfax County has launched a “Wonder Wagon” initiative to bring nature experiences to urban neighborhoods that lack easy access to one of the county’s five nature centers. The Wonder Wagon will visit small parks and community events, offering educational programs and activities to spark interest in and stewardship of nature.  (Neal Augenstein / WTOP)  

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