Breakfast links: Running on Empty
Shutdown impact grows
The shutdown has forced a Capitol Hill shelter for homeless youths to cut most of its services. With DC’s reserves dwindling, broad cuts to government services including trash collection may be coming. (WAMU, WTOP)
Gray proposes environmental legislation
The mayor has submitted a set of bills to the DC Council, including a ban on Styrofoam containers and a requirement that many DC employers provide transit benefits. (WBJ)
3 vie for last PG casino license
3 gaming companies have qualified to proceed with their casino proposals. Each operator has its eye a different site in Prince George’s: Fort Washington, Rosecroft Raceway, or National Harbor. (Post)
Rough day on Metro
After a series of mechanical problems led to delays on all lines yesterday, things got worse for Metro. A man was stabbed outside the Twinbrook station and police subdued a knife-wielding man at Faragut West. (Post, NBC)
Heating plant plans heat up
On Tuesday, plans to develop the Western Heating Plant in Georgetown met a warm reception. But is demolishing three sides of the building really historic preservation? (Georgetown Dish, Urban Turf, Neil) (Tip: Neil)
Fare hike coming?
Metro is considering raising fares $0.10 a ride. If approved, the increase would take effect next July. But will a fare hike drive more riders away? (WAMU)
ICC traffic increasing
Toll revenue on the Intercounty Connector is meeting projections, and continues to rise. Traffic levels are higher than projected near I-270 but lower at the eastern end. The last segment is set to open in the spring. (Post)
Cab drivers file suit
5 taxi drivers have filed a class action suit protesting new DC regulations requiring credit card readers and new dome lights. The suit alleges age discrimination and a violation of 4th Amendment rights. (Washingtonian)
Kilpatrick gets 28 years
Former Detroit mayor Kwame Kilpatrick has been sentenced to 28 years in prison, the longest sentence for corruption ever given to a public official in the US. (Huffington Post)
And…
Will right-wing truckers really jam the Beltway? (Post) … Georgia Avenue Walmart will include other retail, reportedly a bank and a restaurant. (City Paper) … US cities’ fiscal health is improving, but pension and health costs remain a long-term concern. (NYT) … Is the tech sector moving away from the suburban paradigm? (Urban Land)