Breakfast links: Streetcars on a roll
Streetcars live
How did the streetcar do on its first day of testing? Obstacles it encountered included a fire truck, a jutting side view mirror, and some skeptical cyclists. (WAMU)
Mayor for life fined
Marion Barry was faced with over $2,800 in parking and traffic tickets when his car was towed after a crash. He negotiated to have over $1,000 reduced from his bill, and his car was released. (Post)
Candle mural too religious?
An Adams Morgan cafe may remove a mural it says is a “spiritual or religious” symbol that might turn away customers. But the mural’s creator disagrees, saying it sends an inviting message. (WAMU)
Catania files ballot petition
David Catania submitted 7,000 signatures to D.C.‘s elections board to become an official mayoral candidate. He took the opportunity to counter criticism of his personality and draw contrasts with Muriel Bowser. (DCist)
Traffic camera comes home
DC removed a traffic camera that was actually sitting in Maryland. DC originally argued that the camera was looking for people speeding within the District. (WTOP)
City staffer in restaurant tiff
A former staffer for Mayor Gray threatened a restaurant manager with a fine while he was working for the administration. He now works for Muriel Bowser’s office. (City Paper)
Trolley Trail section completed
Another section of the Prince George’s Trolley Trail that connects Hyattsville and Riverdale Park is now open. The trail includes railroad symbols to show intersections. (TheWashCycle)
A better electric bike
DC start-up Riide is building an innovative electric bike. The company’s co-founders were inspired by electric bikes in China. (Post)
Keeping gentrification positive
The Greenmount West neighborhood in Baltimore is ripe for gentrification. But residents and community leaders hope it can avoid negative effects of rising property values. (Next City)
And…
The number of poor people was slightly down in the region’s core but up 42% outside of it. (DCist) … The traffic light celebrates 100 years. (Post, JimT) … Could the National Mall Reflecting Pool host the NHL’s annual outdoor game? (PuckBuddys) (Tip: JimT)