we need to continue the efforts already begun to prioritize safe pedestrian walkways, transit oriented development, and use of public and alternative modes of transportation.
Anne Theisen, Anne Theisen
I am encouraged by efforts to increase transit avialability and bicycle use infrastructure, but it is not good enough yet. There should be no reason why my desire to take transit or bicycle to work in NE 6 miles from where I live in NW is stymied. But it is. Transit availability from NW to NE is awful, for my destination. And biking is very difficult because of lack of bike lanes. I hope to see more infrastructure in the future that supports my desire to drive less, pollute less, and get more excercize.
Kristina Jones, Ward 3
There are so many things we can and should be doing in this era of $4 a gallon gasoline and many of these things can strengthen the District strategically as our auto dependent lifestyle becomes more and more expensive.
We need bold ideas on expanding mass transit - eg a separating the orange and blue lines and adding new Metro stops in Georgetown and the West End and THEN tearing down the Whitehurst freeway.
And real street car lines along Wisconsin and Georgia Avenues that don't end at the District line and that utilize and better serve corridors that already are using public transportation but will use it even more when folks have better options instead of this silliness with expermenting with demonstration projects in corridors where there is no mass transit.
We also need to appropriately price and tax car ownership - why for example does the cost of RPP stickers not dramatically jump with each additional car in a household - sure give the first one away for $10 a year but the second permit should jump to $250 a year and after that it should double for each additional car. And similarly tax auto insurance to reward households with one or fewer cars while penalizing those with multiple cars. And there should be congestion fees downtown as well as increased tax rates on parking in commercial lots. But the money raised should be spent on dramatically improving mass transit and reducing its cost.
And pedestrian safety need not come at the expense of moving vehicles we just need to be smarter about both but reducing vehicle use by making it more expensive will benefit pedestrians and the remaining drivers alike but most important to me will position the Disrict to thrive while more suburban jurisdictions are struggling to adjust to $4 gasoline.
But to succeed this requires picking a visionary leader who will have the courage to propose bold initiatives and take on the big egos in congress and the small minded NIMBY's who derail most good ideas that come along that require any change in habit.
Tom Quinn
Tom Quinn, Ward 3
I go so far as to suggest an additional gas tax in the District to discourage auto use and reduce congestion and pollution, with the tax going specifically to upgrading and expanding the public transit system. With an enlightened Mayor and visionary Director we can apply valuable lessons from Curitiba, Brazil where they have dedicated bus corridors serving the exurbs and boarding tubes which speed up the process considerably.
Larry Chang, EcolocityDC.ning.com, Ward 4
James "Jad" Donohoe, Ward 2
In particular, think of the visionary Jane Jacobs. Focus on pedestrians, mixed zoning, affordable housing, high density, transit, bikes and streetscapes.
Jonathan Horsford, Ward 3
Dorcas Adkins, Washington Area Bicyclist Association
Erin Friel, Ward 1
Mayor Fenty,
Like so many others in the area, I am a Federal employee. The cost of owning a modest car as a GS-11 currently absorbs over 20% of my take home salary.
I encourage you to continue your progressive approach to transit when choosing the new DDOT director. A transit dependent city will serve well the citizens and commuters of Washington while attracting more residents back into the city, expanding the tax base and help fund public services.
I would like to sell my car and relocate back to the city, and I believe it will be far more feasible for myself and many like me if you continue your stellar record of hiring progressive minded public servants to lead the city's departments, especially when searching for Dir. Moneme's replacement.
Respectfully,
David J. Murphy
David J. Murphy, Laurel, MD
Cherri Rooks, Ward 5
Matthew Jordan, Ward 1
We should reward pedestrians and bus riders with convenient more closely placed bus stops at transfer points.
Luci Murphy, Gray Panthers, Ward 1
We need a transportation director that will build on the great potential DC has to become a city with shared streets. We need context sensitive solutions to our transportation problems. With the huge budgets that DOTs across the country use for constant retrofits, repairs and new construction projects, comes great potential for innovative investments in a transit system that de-emphasizes cars and starts to improve the community as a whole.
Abby Hall, Ward 4
I have been a cycle commuter in the city of my birth since I moved back here from school in 2002. I look forward to being able to commute from my home in Takoma DC to my job Brookland on a complete Metropolitan Branch Trail.
James Rogers, Ward 4
I am an avid cyclist, and I know the District government can do even better with respect to encouraging, respecting, and protecting bicycling within the city.
Mark A. Rooks, Ward 5
I have become a biker since I have moved to DC 3 years ago. Many of the streets that I travel to get to work and to enjoy the rest of the city have become increasingly dangerous to travel on. This summer I have been working in NYC and have been surprised with the amount of work that they have done to create bike lanes. As a part of the green generation it will be more important to follow in the steps of cities like Portland by creating the option for people to bike and walk around their neighborhoods. The capital needs to step up and become a model city for the rest of the country.
Emily Mazurak
Walkability is exactly what this city (and this country) need right now. Suburban sprawl doesn't work. Why bring its myriad faults into the city? We need visionaries to make this work.
We need a visionary DDOT leader to move transportation planning beyond the typical priming of light signals and intersections for suburban commuters. We need more and better public transportation (greater investment in existing WMATA metro/bus lines and capital investment in more), more and better bike facilities (Metro Branch trail, bike parking, bike lanes), stricter laws protecting cyclists and pedestrians from Bob Novak and garbage trucks - and that's just the beginning of my wish list. We don't need someone good; we need someone great!
Patrick T. Metz, Ward 1
Brandon Wu, Ward 1
I would love to see some creative solutions to traffic noise and speed especially in those areas where huge avenues cut through the communities. Paloma Adams,Ward 1
Paloma Adams-Allen, Ward 5
Molly Jacobstein, Ward 6
We need someone in charge who wants a more civilized city.
barbara klieforth, WABA, Cottage City, MD
We chose to live in DC because it is a walkable, green city that is not overly polluted or crowded with traffic. Much of the influx of young couples with kids who would otherwise choose the suburbs to live in is for the same reason. Please give us all a reason to keep living here and promoting it as one of the best cities in which to live.
Yasmin Chandani, Ward 6
My daughter commutes by bike to work in D.C. and the traffic is terrible, actually very dangerous. People drive crazy in D.C.. Please help keep the air breathable and commuting by bike or foot safe
Catherine Osborn, Phoenx
Sounds good to me.
Tommy Wells, Ward 6
Give me a reason to come back for a visit, DC!
James Vicente, Brooklyn, NY
Forest Fisher, Ward 4
Mayor Fenty:
It seemed like departing Transportation Director Moneme was going in the right direction, so I hope that whomever replaces him will continue the projects he has worked on or supported. More 'speed humps' in residential streets heavily used by commuters, increased traffic enforcement and the use of traffic officers to direct traffic downtown during rush hour all are commendable.
Thank you.
Jonathan Make
Ryan Nuckel
Making it easier for residents (and visitors!) to walk and bike safely around Washington is one of the most cost-effective ways to make our city a better place to live and visit. Please select a DDOT director who shares this powerful vision.
Teague L, Ward 1
Visionary leadership on transportation is critical to making our city as good as it could be. Conventional thinking which only focuses on spending billions to move more cars does not make our city more competitive or enhance the quality of life. We need a strong leader in transportation who can integrate transportation planning and practice to serve the greater good of economic revitalization, pedestrian & bicycle safety, much improved transit service, and great public spaces.
Cheryl Cort, Ward 1
to Walter Caldwell, Ward 6:
A Bonus of $40,000 is incentive enough to leave a failing organization.
What is needed now - pressure on the power to be to provide the services "OUR TAXES PAY FOR".
There is an old adage "When the Ship is Sinking - YOU JUMP!
CHris Wells
Frank open meeting with the "RANK AND FILE" is the only way to achieve results. Potholes in the streets and trees obscuring STOP SIGNS are only a few concerns by bus drivers,
let alone retaliatory measures for those that complain about lack of facilities at the turnarounds.
That is my challenge - talk is cheap - now lets walk the walk! This include the Council Members:
Ride each line and leave the photo opportunities behind and see what the average passenger endures!
Election time is near - witness the hardship average citizens have to put up with daily - your eyes will be opened - the fact is "CHANGE" is on the way - can it be now if not sooner!
You be the Judge
Chris Wells, Ward 1
Tim Krepp, Ward 6
I'm impressed with DC's priorities when it comes to transit so far, and I'd love to see the city keep going with a long-term plan that focuses on the quality of life factors that make it a great place to live. We still have a long way to go on improving the environment and safety.
Anne Louise Marshall, Ward 2
Anna C, Ward 2
As a daily bike commuter, Metro rider and pedestrian, I see so many oportunities for the District of Columbia to really take the lead on new thinking in transportation. Already hailed as the nation's most walkable city, DC can build on this fundamental asset to create a unique city that allows residents and visitors to travel conveniently without relying on automobiles.
Andy King, Ward 1
Marika Rosen, Ward 6
Jordan Friedberg, Ward 6
We definitely need a visionary in the DDOT leader position. There's a lot a stake that could affect our communities.
Joyce Howard
Kelly Vielmo, Ward 6
Philip Hatchett, Ward 1
i believe this is very important. i am a cyclist and would like to feel safer on my bike as i commute. additionally, the traffic in my neighborhood is horrible and looks like it will only get worse as NoMa develops and more people move in. we need creative solutions and someone with a vision!
kimberly konkel, Ward 5
it is unfortunate that Mr. Moneme felt compelled to leave DDOT before the culture of this important and sometimes backward agency could significantly improve or complete some its major projects currently underway. Please consider were the agency currently is and what the citizens needs are in terms of transportation and the continued efforts to improve the Anacostia and the water resources of the District of Columbia. When choosing the new DDOT head.
Walter Caldwell, Ward 6
As a long-time resident of Capitol Hill, I have had bitter experience with the shortsighted bias of DDOT that emphasizes ease (and speed) of ingesss and exit from the city by suburban drivers, who have no regard--and often contempt--for its inhabitants, other than as obstacles to taking the money and running, all the while leaving not a penny toward the income taxes needed to maintain the roadways in sufficient condition to make the escape smooth and fast. We must have a new attitude in the Dapartment.
Charles Donnelly, Ward 6
We must have some leading d. that will continue to enhance the streetscape by thinking logically and creatively.
Serrin Bodmer, Ward 4
I want to feel safe biking and walking in my city - please select someone with a creative vision who will find a way other than super fast through roads (i.e. New York ave and North Capitol St) to bring people into the city.
Elizabeth Brooks, Ward 5
Christian Jones
Leah Lavin, McLean, VA
Sean Randol, Ward 1
Harry Jones, Ward 1
Melissa Esposito
I use the METR every day. Please let's make the METRO the best it can be.
joshua whelpley, alexandria, VA
Mayor Fenty,
As a 25-year resident of the District (Adams Morgan and more recently, Michigan Park in NE), vehicular speeds on South Dakota and Michigan Avenues are beyond appalling: DDOT's own data indicate average speeds on South Dakota are almost TWICE the posted speed limit of 25 mph. The highest speeds recorded were 70.2 mph in front of my house. That is inexcusable and unconscionable. DDOT has dragged its feet in my 2.5 year quest to obtain speed control measures on South Dakota. DDOT does not need a useless bureaucrat at its helm; your constituents deserve--no, demand--a transportation agency with a visionary leader focused on traffic calming measures, investment in infrastructure, and pedestrian safety to ensure the vitality of neighborhoods across the city.
Tom Lavash
Michigan Park, Ward 5
W. Thomas Lavash, Ward 5
DDOT needs a great leader
Timothy Shea, Ward 1
Hiram Powers, Ward 6
Anthony Marchetti, Ward 1
As an everyday bicycle commuter, I constantly see that this city needs drastic transportation improvements.
Patrick Polischuk, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Ward 5
Lynne Heneson, Ward 3
Please encourage the new director to pursue meaningful streetcar systems, where appropriate. Thank you.
David Tumblin, Ward 4
I've gone to college and lived in the district off and on for 14 years. DDOT has always been sluggish and seemed overly bureaucratic to accomplish much change. I hope the Mayor will take this opportunity seriously and make DC a better place for all citizens and visitors!
Todd M Peterson, Ward 5
Please do the right thing for the District here. Lynchpin to a greater future.
Erich Stanley, Ward 2
Scott Worthington
Daniel Kahn, Ward 1
DC needs a transportation director who will consider all forms of transportation when planning and implementing projects — not one who will give undue weight to one particular mode of transportation. Please consider choosing a leader who will make the hard choices that need to be made to give DC the world-class transportation system it deserves.
Ian Valentine, Ward 1
Ryan Gage, Ward 2
Eve Bennet, Ward 3
Damon C. Luciano, Chair, DC Sierra Club, Ward 6
Let's see: Safe biking options for commuting and recreation, innovative solutions to the perils that go with the pluses of development, safe passage on neighborhood sidewalks for my children.
John King, Ward 4
Alec Brown, Ward 1
Current circumstances offer our city a chance to make its most significant leap in public transportation since the Metro system broke ground. We could be an example to the rest of the country about how a well integrated transportation network can improve commerce, environment, and overall quality of life. Please don't let this once in a generation opportunity slip by. Make your mark Mr. Mayor.
A. R. Osorio Jr.
This city needs innovative transportation policies and programs to take it to the next level - separated bus and bike lanes, safer crossings for pedestrians, a sensible parking policy, and more. DDOT, and the District as a whole, deserve a leader who will bring these changes. It's time to step up to the plate!
Stephen Dyer Miller, Ward 1
Travis Moore, Ward 1
I've been heartened to see the new bike lanes across the city and had hoped that this vision of a bike-friendly (and safe!) city would continue. The challenge of balancing truly multi-modal traffic solutions is not a small one and I hope that we can attract a visionary who is eager to take DC from its current state into something exceptional.
I support Tanglerini, Rhee and Tregoning and hope to see more exceptional and inspiring leaders.
Jessica Hanff, Ward 5
I am in favor of revising the bus system to perhaps lower the number of routes but increase the regularity of buses along central corridors.
I am also in favor of targeted light-rail construction along certain roads, including H St. NE and Georgia Ave.
Victor Rortvedt, Ward 1
Louise Brodnitz, Ward 2
DDOT should be about moving people not cars.
Lance Brown, Ward 6
Jonathan Guy, Ward 3
Karen King, Ward 6
I have had visitors from Europe who were appalled at the condition the District is in (considering that we are also the Nations Capital) - the funds are provided by the Federal Government, time to use them don't you think!
Next time when being driven through the "District" pay attention to its condition - Connecticut Avenue could be a starting point - the question is will you pay attention?
Edgar C. Wells Jr., Ward 1
Keisha C. Dawson, Ward 4
David McCarty, Ward 1
Jeremiah Bailey-Hoover, Ward 3
Chris Jamieson, Ward 2
As someone who moved to Washington for college but has since fallen in love with the city, I can say that the more innovative the DDOT becomes, the more the city will thrive.
David Grossman, Ward 2
Jeff Peel, League of American Bicyclists, Ward 1
Carol K. Janicki, Carol K. Janicki, Ward 4
S. White Rhyne, Ward 4
Peter Jacobs, Ward 3
I agree, love Michelle Rhee, Harriet Tregoning, and of course Dan Tangherlini. Lets bring someone of that caliber in to take over DDOT, a hugely important position in Washington. For instance, without Dan Tangherlini's vision, carsharing would not be what it is in Washington (one of the top carsharing cities in the U.S.)
gabe klein, Ward 1
Mr. Mayor, please look seriously outside of DDOT for a new leader of the caliber of Ms. Rhee. Although there are many devoted public servants at DDOT, it remains overall a hidebound agency with many managers all too ready to circle the wagons rather than learn from mistakes and move on.
I look forward to a stellar pick to run this important agency.
Jonathan Bender, Ward 3
James Tedrick, Ward 4
William Hewitt, Dupont Circle ANC, Ward 2
Benjmain Welle, Ward 1
Will, Georgetown Voice, Ward 2
Nolan Treadway
I've been encouraged by the moves toward making the city more bike- and pedestrian-friendly under your term so far, Mayor Fenty. Here's hoping you select a DDOT Director who continues and expands on these initiatives.
Thomas Lee, Ward 2
Chris Neary, Ward 1
Michael Scholten, Silver Spring, MD
Jonathan Fetter-Degges, Ward 4
Samuel C. Feinson, Arlington, VA
Jared Katseff, Ward 1
Ronald Eichner, Ward3Vision, Ward 3
I have been a fan of you since you were in my ANC.... Please promote sensible, green, mixed-use transit policy and appoint someone who does too.
Jeffrey Weisner, Ward 3
My perspective is a homeowner in Logan Circle. We decided to buy before having children but we've further decided to do what we can to stay in town and raise a family. One of the big things one notices after living in town for a bit is how many features of the road system seem to be designed solely for speeding the commutes of residents of MD and VA. These things really detract from the livability of downtown DC and it will take sustained effort and vision to undo the misguided actions from the 70's. (take the "urban freeway" of 15th street NW as an example)
While I think there are many dedicated people of good will at DDOT, there is significant inertia and it truly will take a bold leader to overcome the malaise that has kept DC from being the world class city it can be. I hope you can find someone who can lead us in a new direction.
Michael Carr, Ward 2
Please find someone who can be a great leader for our city and a true advocate for those of us who walk, bike, use transit, and use carsharing to get around!
Rebecca Perring, Ward 2
I recently had the opportunity to bicycle in Manhattan, specifically on the 9th Ave stretch of Dutch-style separated bike lane. I don't know if I can convey what a delight it was to ride, with my 3 1/2 year old daughter on the back of the bike, feeling confident in my safety. It's the kind of change in infrastructure that will do more than any advertising or educational campaign to get people to regard bicycles as viable transportation rather than toys or recreation.
Creighton Higgins, Ward 5
It's time to move into the 21st Century. As gas prices rise, it's time to change our transportation policies and infrastructure. We need a leader for DDOT who understands the changes that are necessary.
Thomas Buttry, Ward 2
The District has the luxury of being an older eastern city, in that much of the required density for walkable, transit-oriented neighborhoods is already here. We need more of this kind of development, less of the sprawling, car-centered kind. We need a DDOT chief who will work to strengthen the urban dynamic we already have and to create it where it does not yet exist.
John Cain, Ward 6
A new director of DOT should have experience with TDM and complete streets.
David Cranor, Ward 6
David L. Abrams, Ward 2
This city needs more support and encouragement for Bikers and pedestrians. Its time to put someone in position who can effectively counter the old and outdated "cars-first" mentality!
Conrad Gross, Ward 4
I grew up in washington but recently moved to new york, and the difference in transportation infrastructure is astounding.
Washington dc needs to start planning for the future and this is a good place to start.
-david roesing
David Roesing, Bethesda, Maryland
Max Bergmann, Ward 6
Patrick Gibson, Ward 1
Jeremy Beales, Arlington, VA
Ben Furnas, Ward 1
Mark Williams, Ward 6
Tim Ayers, Ayers Associates, LLC, Ward 2
Matthew Connor, Ward 1
I often take the metro and bicycle rather than drive around and to my job in D.C. It would be wonderful to have a D.C. Transportation Director who made the streets safer for bicyclists like myself and otherwise provided quality non-car transportation options in the District. Thank you.
Melanie Kleiss Boerger, Silver Spring, MD
Jonathan Morrow, Ward 2
The form letter here is very good, but let's just add more specifically that at a time of skyrocketing gas prices and growing concern about global warming it's vitally important that cities such as ours take bold steps to reform our transportation policies away from such heavy dependence on cars and toward a broader set of solutions -- trains, buses, walking, biking, etc.
Matthew Yglesias, Ward 1
As a district resident I love to have easy travel from point to point. Transit is good but needs improvement and bike safety is majorly lagging. It is quite difficult to commute using bike lanes and the challenge brings cars and bikes into conflict and those conflicts can lead to use of police time that could better be used other ways. Smart traffic design will help our city prosper even as gas prices rise. We can be leaders and I hope we will join the ranks of NYC, Portland and other innovators rather than become a laggard. I voted for you, in part because you told me that we would make DC a world-class city. Part of being a world-class city is having world-class transit systems and we need DDOT's help.
Zachary Teutsch, Ward 1
Lance Salonia, Committee of 100 on the Federal City, Ward 2
John Nowicki, Ward 2
Oops. Forgot to check the box - I live in Ward 6.
Alex Block, Ward 6
Transportation is the backbone of any city, and the time of focusing only on the car has long passed. We need a leader to use transportation to enhance the quality of life within the city. Though that goes against some of the traditional engineering dogma, results across the world and the US have shown that taking the focus away from the car tends to improve the overall situation, too.
Let's see a focus on mass transit, walking, cycling, and livable streets. These things will pay dividends in DC's quality of life, development, and place amongst the world's great cities.
Alex Block
Great letter.
Allen Greenberg, Ward 2
i hope we can break out of the cycle of costly endless plans and move forward with some implementation.
Si Kailian, MVSNA, Ward 2
Joshua Lohn, Ward 1
With rising gas prices and global warming, it's time for the District to focus on car-free transportation--Metro, pedestrians, bicyclists, and carsharing are all better things to spend our limited resources on. Please do the right thing and nominate a visionary to lead DDOT--and the city--into a less car-dependent future.
Dan Miller, Ward 2
Ralph Garboushian, Ward 6
Jenna Iberg, Ward 1
Though I do not live in the District, I ride my bike here every day on my way to work. On the weekends, I spend the majority of my time in the District. I agree entirely with this letter and hope that you will choose someone to lead DDOT that puts pedestrians first.
Barry Skidmore, Arlington, VA (Rosslyn)
By making DC more walkable and improving public transportation, DC will become less dependent on oil. This will enhance our national security, even by a tiny bit. Add up these tiny bits and our national security situation will improve greatly. Moreover, our CO2 footprint and other use of resources will decrease.
Chuck Coleman, Alexandria, VA
Paul Sieczkowski, Ward 6
Mayor Fenty, please take this opportunity to put DDOT at the forefront of the nation as an agency with a progressive vision on transit, and that knows the incredible value of well-designed mass transit and fewer cars to our future well-being. The District could join NYC in becoming a role-model for the rest of the country.
Morie Newman, Rockville, MD
Dear Mayor Fenty,
Thank you so much for all the hard work you have done to bring this city up a few notches in quality: the school system, the revamped planning departments and economic development offices. The director of DDOT needs to be a true visionary who can carry out the important needs of the residents of this city. Mostly, it will require someone with expertise in replanning transportation corridors to accomodate users other than cars, especially streetcar systems and bike safety measures.
I live east of the Anacostia River in the Anacostia area, and from my perspective we need someone who is willing to use his or her influence to and knowledge to be able to tell the public what is best. Public opinion in matters of planning and transportation is often shortsighted, as in the case of choosing not to run the Anacostia light rail line down MLK Avenue.
Thank you again for your vision, and I look forward to our new DDOT directors leadership.
David G. Garber, Ward 8
Steve Pinkus, Ward 1
WMATA could become the nation's best transit system with the right leadership. As the nation's capital, DC should be setting the example for moving away from a car/highway reliant mindset.
Kiril Johnson, Ward 1
Mayor, you have shown a willingness to avoid simply choosing the path of least resistance, and instead search out truly innovative human capital. These new leaders have already made an impact in other areas of District life. Now, you have the same opportunity to appoint a forward-looking Director for DDOT who recognizes that in a country stressed by high gas prices and global warming, walkable and bike-friendly diverse neighborhoods are a genuine refuge. Our new DDOT head can lead the District and the region towards safer streets that better serve the movement needs of citizens. Thank you.
Jason Rogers, Ward 1
An progressive leader in Washington, DC will influence other jurisdictions in the area by providing an example of "Best Practices" in smart growth and transit innovations.
Michael Perkins, Arlington, VA
Please pick someone who will make it safe to walk in Mt. Vernon Triangle during rush hour. Mass Ave is not a highway!
Vince Mareino, Ward 6
Bryan Hart, Ward 1
Mayor Fenty,
I am a recent college graduate with a master's degree in civil engineering with a focus on transportation. I am in the process of moving to Washington, DC, after successfully landing a job as a transportation planner. The reason why I chose DC over other cities was because of its transportation vision over the past half century that has lead to a wonderful transportation system that lets me not use a car. In fact I am moving to the city without a car. I feel that DC's focus on alternative transportation gives it an edge with other US cities, and I feel that the new DDOT director must continue to serve this focus. Help make DC a national leader in alternative transportation investments. Thank you for your time.
Alayna Buckner, Ward 1
ken ashton
Anne Theisen, Anne Theisen
Kristina Jones, Ward 3
We need bold ideas on expanding mass transit - eg a separating the orange and blue lines and adding new Metro stops in Georgetown and the West End and THEN tearing down the Whitehurst freeway.
And real street car lines along Wisconsin and Georgia Avenues that don't end at the District line and that utilize and better serve corridors that already are using public transportation but will use it even more when folks have better options instead of this silliness with expermenting with demonstration projects in corridors where there is no mass transit.
We also need to appropriately price and tax car ownership - why for example does the cost of RPP stickers not dramatically jump with each additional car in a household - sure give the first one away for $10 a year but the second permit should jump to $250 a year and after that it should double for each additional car. And similarly tax auto insurance to reward households with one or fewer cars while penalizing those with multiple cars. And there should be congestion fees downtown as well as increased tax rates on parking in commercial lots. But the money raised should be spent on dramatically improving mass transit and reducing its cost.
And pedestrian safety need not come at the expense of moving vehicles we just need to be smarter about both but reducing vehicle use by making it more expensive will benefit pedestrians and the remaining drivers alike but most important to me will position the Disrict to thrive while more suburban jurisdictions are struggling to adjust to $4 gasoline.
But to succeed this requires picking a visionary leader who will have the courage to propose bold initiatives and take on the big egos in congress and the small minded NIMBY's who derail most good ideas that come along that require any change in habit.
Tom Quinn
Tom Quinn, Ward 3
Larry Chang, EcolocityDC.ning.com, Ward 4
James "Jad" Donohoe, Ward 2
Jonathan Horsford, Ward 3
Dorcas Adkins, Washington Area Bicyclist Association
Erin Friel, Ward 1
Like so many others in the area, I am a Federal employee. The cost of owning a modest car as a GS-11 currently absorbs over 20% of my take home salary.
I encourage you to continue your progressive approach to transit when choosing the new DDOT director. A transit dependent city will serve well the citizens and commuters of Washington while attracting more residents back into the city, expanding the tax base and help fund public services.
I would like to sell my car and relocate back to the city, and I believe it will be far more feasible for myself and many like me if you continue your stellar record of hiring progressive minded public servants to lead the city's departments, especially when searching for Dir. Moneme's replacement.
Respectfully,
David J. Murphy
David J. Murphy, Laurel, MD
Cherri Rooks, Ward 5
Matthew Jordan, Ward 1
Luci Murphy, Gray Panthers, Ward 1
Abby Hall, Ward 4
James Rogers, Ward 4
Mark A. Rooks, Ward 5
Emily Mazurak
Robert Pohl, Ward 6
Willie Schatz
Guilherme Almeida, Ward 2
Ann Marie Koshuta, Ward 6
Patrick T. Metz, Ward 1
Brandon Wu, Ward 1
Paloma Adams-Allen, Ward 5
Molly Jacobstein, Ward 6
barbara klieforth, WABA, Cottage City, MD
Yasmin Chandani, Ward 6
Catherine Osborn, Phoenx
Tommy Wells, Ward 6
James Vicente, Brooklyn, NY
Forest Fisher, Ward 4
It seemed like departing Transportation Director Moneme was going in the right direction, so I hope that whomever replaces him will continue the projects he has worked on or supported. More 'speed humps' in residential streets heavily used by commuters, increased traffic enforcement and the use of traffic officers to direct traffic downtown during rush hour all are commendable.
Thank you.
Jonathan Make
Ryan Nuckel
Teague L, Ward 1
Cheryl Cort, Ward 1
A Bonus of $40,000 is incentive enough to leave a failing organization.
What is needed now - pressure on the power to be to provide the services "OUR TAXES PAY FOR".
There is an old adage "When the Ship is Sinking - YOU JUMP!
CHris Wells
let alone retaliatory measures for those that complain about lack of facilities at the turnarounds.
That is my challenge - talk is cheap - now lets walk the walk! This include the Council Members:
Ride each line and leave the photo opportunities behind and see what the average passenger endures!
Election time is near - witness the hardship average citizens have to put up with daily - your eyes will be opened - the fact is "CHANGE" is on the way - can it be now if not sooner!
You be the Judge
Chris Wells, Ward 1
Tim Krepp, Ward 6
Anne Louise Marshall, Ward 2
Anna C, Ward 2
Andy King, Ward 1
Marika Rosen, Ward 6
Jordan Friedberg, Ward 6
Joyce Howard
Kelly Vielmo, Ward 6
Philip Hatchett, Ward 1
kimberly konkel, Ward 5
Walter Caldwell, Ward 6
Charles Donnelly, Ward 6
Serrin Bodmer, Ward 4
Elizabeth Brooks, Ward 5
Christian Jones
Leah Lavin, McLean, VA
Sean Randol, Ward 1
Harry Jones, Ward 1
Melissa Esposito
joshua whelpley, alexandria, VA
As a 25-year resident of the District (Adams Morgan and more recently, Michigan Park in NE), vehicular speeds on South Dakota and Michigan Avenues are beyond appalling: DDOT's own data indicate average speeds on South Dakota are almost TWICE the posted speed limit of 25 mph. The highest speeds recorded were 70.2 mph in front of my house. That is inexcusable and unconscionable. DDOT has dragged its feet in my 2.5 year quest to obtain speed control measures on South Dakota. DDOT does not need a useless bureaucrat at its helm; your constituents deserve--no, demand--a transportation agency with a visionary leader focused on traffic calming measures, investment in infrastructure, and pedestrian safety to ensure the vitality of neighborhoods across the city.
Tom Lavash
Michigan Park, Ward 5
W. Thomas Lavash, Ward 5
Timothy Shea, Ward 1
Hiram Powers, Ward 6
Anthony Marchetti, Ward 1
Patrick Polischuk, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Ward 5
Lynne Heneson, Ward 3
David Tumblin, Ward 4
Todd M Peterson, Ward 5
Erich Stanley, Ward 2
Scott Worthington
Daniel Kahn, Ward 1
Ian Valentine, Ward 1
Ryan Gage, Ward 2
Eve Bennet, Ward 3
Damon C. Luciano, Chair, DC Sierra Club, Ward 6
John King, Ward 4
Alec Brown, Ward 1
A. R. Osorio Jr.
Stephen Dyer Miller, Ward 1
Travis Moore, Ward 1
I support Tanglerini, Rhee and Tregoning and hope to see more exceptional and inspiring leaders.
Jessica Hanff, Ward 5
I am also in favor of targeted light-rail construction along certain roads, including H St. NE and Georgia Ave.
Victor Rortvedt, Ward 1
Louise Brodnitz, Ward 2
Lance Brown, Ward 6
Jonathan Guy, Ward 3
Karen King, Ward 6
Next time when being driven through the "District" pay attention to its condition - Connecticut Avenue could be a starting point - the question is will you pay attention?
Edgar C. Wells Jr., Ward 1
Keisha C. Dawson, Ward 4
David McCarty, Ward 1
Jeremiah Bailey-Hoover, Ward 3
Chris Jamieson, Ward 2
David Grossman, Ward 2
Jeff Peel, League of American Bicyclists, Ward 1
Carol K. Janicki, Carol K. Janicki, Ward 4
S. White Rhyne, Ward 4
Peter Jacobs, Ward 3
gabe klein, Ward 1
I look forward to a stellar pick to run this important agency.
Jonathan Bender, Ward 3
James Tedrick, Ward 4
William Hewitt, Dupont Circle ANC, Ward 2
Benjmain Welle, Ward 1
Will, Georgetown Voice, Ward 2
Nolan Treadway
Thomas Lee, Ward 2
Chris Neary, Ward 1
Michael Scholten, Silver Spring, MD
Jonathan Fetter-Degges, Ward 4
Samuel C. Feinson, Arlington, VA
Jared Katseff, Ward 1
Ronald Eichner, Ward3Vision, Ward 3
Jeffrey Weisner, Ward 3
While I think there are many dedicated people of good will at DDOT, there is significant inertia and it truly will take a bold leader to overcome the malaise that has kept DC from being the world class city it can be. I hope you can find someone who can lead us in a new direction.
Michael Carr, Ward 2
Rebecca Perring, Ward 2
Creighton Higgins, Ward 5
Thomas Buttry, Ward 2
John Cain, Ward 6
David Cranor, Ward 6
David L. Abrams, Ward 2
Conrad Gross, Ward 4
Washington dc needs to start planning for the future and this is a good place to start.
-david roesing
David Roesing, Bethesda, Maryland
Max Bergmann, Ward 6
Patrick Gibson, Ward 1
Jeremy Beales, Arlington, VA
Ben Furnas, Ward 1
Mark Williams, Ward 6
Tim Ayers, Ayers Associates, LLC, Ward 2
Matthew Connor, Ward 1
Melanie Kleiss Boerger, Silver Spring, MD
Jonathan Morrow, Ward 2
Matthew Yglesias, Ward 1
Zachary Teutsch, Ward 1
Lance Salonia, Committee of 100 on the Federal City, Ward 2
John Nowicki, Ward 2
Alex Block, Ward 6
Let's see a focus on mass transit, walking, cycling, and livable streets. These things will pay dividends in DC's quality of life, development, and place amongst the world's great cities.
Alex Block
Allen Greenberg, Ward 2
Si Kailian, MVSNA, Ward 2
Joshua Lohn, Ward 1
Dan Miller, Ward 2
Ralph Garboushian, Ward 6
Jenna Iberg, Ward 1
Barry Skidmore, Arlington, VA (Rosslyn)
Chuck Coleman, Alexandria, VA
Paul Sieczkowski, Ward 6
Morie Newman, Rockville, MD
Thank you so much for all the hard work you have done to bring this city up a few notches in quality: the school system, the revamped planning departments and economic development offices. The director of DDOT needs to be a true visionary who can carry out the important needs of the residents of this city. Mostly, it will require someone with expertise in replanning transportation corridors to accomodate users other than cars, especially streetcar systems and bike safety measures.
I live east of the Anacostia River in the Anacostia area, and from my perspective we need someone who is willing to use his or her influence to and knowledge to be able to tell the public what is best. Public opinion in matters of planning and transportation is often shortsighted, as in the case of choosing not to run the Anacostia light rail line down MLK Avenue.
Thank you again for your vision, and I look forward to our new DDOT directors leadership.
David G. Garber, Ward 8
Steve Pinkus, Ward 1
Kiril Johnson, Ward 1
Jason Rogers, Ward 1
Michael Perkins, Arlington, VA
Vince Mareino, Ward 6
Bryan Hart, Ward 1
I am a recent college graduate with a master's degree in civil engineering with a focus on transportation. I am in the process of moving to Washington, DC, after successfully landing a job as a transportation planner. The reason why I chose DC over other cities was because of its transportation vision over the past half century that has lead to a wonderful transportation system that lets me not use a car. In fact I am moving to the city without a car. I feel that DC's focus on alternative transportation gives it an edge with other US cities, and I feel that the new DDOT director must continue to serve this focus. Help make DC a national leader in alternative transportation investments. Thank you for your time.
Nicholas Schmidt, Ward 2
David Alpert, Ward 2