Breakfast links: Less driving
Californians drive less
Biking, transit, and walking now comprise 23% of all trips in California, doubling over the past decade, a statewide survey found. This confirms the trend in the 2009 National Household Travel Survey. (Streetsblog, h st ll) (Tip: h st ll)
But the nation drives more
Despite recent reports of high national transit ridership, the percentage share has actually fallen in recent years as the population has increased. The problem is not a lack of funding for transit, but rather the low cost of driving. (Post)
Sea change for Virginia
New Virginia transportation officials will change the state’s methods of evaluating transportation projects, stopping outdated methods that forecast ever-increasing amounts of driving and moving away from the controversial Texas Transportation Institute’s “Travel Time Index.” (Bacon’s Rebellion)
Transit or social service?
Is the struggle to keep Metrobus fares low confusing WMATA’s mission with a social service agency? Dr. Gridlock thinks so as WMATA Board members debate how much to raise bus fares versus rail. (Post)
Coast Guard brings few benefits
Touted as a catalyst, the new Coast Guard complex at St. Elizabeths West Campus provides few opportunities for contact with the surrounding Ward 8. Will the East Campus have better results? (City Paper)
NY’s bikeshare hits bumps
Citibike faces financial shortfalls thanks to Superstorm Sandy, fewer profitable short-term memberships, and a lack of public money. But will things improve when spring comes? (WSJ, Circle Thomas, Next City) (Tip: Circle Thomas)
Drive fast, ride free
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio wants devices in cabs that stop meters when a taxi is speeding to improve safety. Some taxi drivers and residents are opposed, saying “everybody speeds.” (NY Post)
Housing affordability or higher incomes?
Philadelphia’s city council president recently offered a plan to address housing affordability. But in a city where housing is already relatively inexpensive, should politicians focus on raising incomes instead? (Next City)
What’s it called? Maglev!
Virginia Beach is intrigued by a maglev company’s proposal to help fund a line there instead of extending the light rail, but the technology is totally untested, lacks federal approvals, and may cost more than promised. (Virginian-Pilot)
And…
Amid falling demand, developers are converting former office buildings to apartments. (Post) … Seattle puts a cap on UberX, Lyft, and Sidecar drivers. (Next City) … Rochester’s lost subway. (Atlantic Cities)