Politics
For ANC in southern Ward 6
Ward 6 has more contested ANC seats than in any other ward, and between streetcars on H Street NE, development around Union Station, bike lanes on M SE/SW, and bike sharing at Lincoln Park, there are plenty of transportation and development debates to go around as well as issues around retail, development and more.
Starting in the south, we're most excited about the candidacy of blogger David Garber, who recently crossed the river to Near Southeast and is running in ANC 6D07 against longtime commissioner Bob Siegel. When Five Guys wanted to open a patio on an empty sidewalk in an area with vacant lots across the street, Siegel opposed the idea unless Five Guys would make a donation to other community initiatives.
This exemplifies a common problem with ANC 6D as well as some others around the city, which don't see new retail and sidewalk cafes as a benefit on themselves but demand contributions to other projects in exchange for permission to exist. Garber would bring a breath of fresh air to this ANC and we endorse his candidacy.
The main street in ANC 6D is M Street SE/SW, where neighbors fought Tommy Wells' efforts to change the high-speed traffic sewer into a boulevard with better pedestrian and bicycle amenities. Several commissioners haven't been the leaders on walking and biking issues we might hope for, but their challengers are far worse. For example, current chair Ron McBee (6D03, north side of M between 4th and South Capitol) faces staunch anti-bicycle challenger Mary Williams. McBee has also worked hard to help the young people in public housing in his district.
At the M Street community meeting, one woman called neighbors "irresponsible parents" who dared to take their children to school or buy groceries by bicycle. That was Grace Daughtridge, who is challenging incumbent Roger Moffatt in 6D05. The district contains the southeast corner of 4th and M and then skips across Fort McNair to the southern tip of Buzzard Point. We endorse Moffatt.
Rhonda Hamilton (6D06), who represents the rest of Buzzard Point up to 1st and M SW, deserves reelection; she has done substantial work with at-risk youth and on public housing issues, which comprise much of her district, and she served on the campaign committee for Councilmember Tommy Wells.
Across the Southeast Freeway in southern Capitol Hill is ANC 6B. The Eastern Market Metro Community Association (EMMCA), led by a pair of residents who live at Eastern Market Metro, Thomas and Barbara Riehle, is trying to unseat most of the current ANC.
The ANC has some real problems, such as a less than stellar record of transparency and inclusiveness toward non-commissioner residents. At the same time, EMMCA and the Riehles are particularly upset by the development choices at Hine Junior High School and the suggestion of making Pennsylvania Avenue into an oval or square at Eastern Market.
At community meetings on the Pennsylvania Avenue project, called Capitol Hill Town Square, it was extremely disturbing the way project opponents tried to drown out the project team, rudely applauded every hostile comment, and made absolute declarations of opposition to any change whatsoever even before the team had developed any options. Clearly any project at this spot needs to consider the needs of the immediate residents, but when those residents assume that no conceivable approach could possibly gain their acceptance, sight unseen, no constructive discussion can take place.
At Hine, meanwhile, the developers conducted a very open process to solicit community input, but EMMCA continues to allege a lack of transparency because they are not pleased with the outcome. We don't like having a huge parking lot under Hine either, but otherwise look forward to seeing the project built.
While we would like to see a fresher perspective in the often staid ANC 6B, having two factions with absolute views on neighborhood issues battling for a majority on the ANC is not the best thing for southern Capitol Hill.
We do endorse Brian Pate in 6B05, south of Lincoln Park and extending to Hine. Pate has taken a clear pro-bicycling stance while his opponent, incumbent Ken Jarboe, was behind DDOT scuttling a Capital Bikeshare station on the southeast corner of Lincoln Park, according to neighboring commissioner Nicholas Alberti.
Jarboe was also one of the few residents who testified in favor of keeping parking minimums which force property owners to build more parking than they think is appropriate. We appreciate Jarboe's role as chair of Tommy Wells' campaign committee, but feel Pate would do more to build consensus in this district.
The other challenger we endorse is Brian Flahaven, running in Barney Circle's 6B09 against incumbent Michael Patterson. A proposed historic district designation recently roiled Barney Circle, with many residents feeling that they weren't approached about the proposal and that the primary proponents came from outside the area.
There are arguments for and against a historic district, but people on both sides agree that Commissioner Patterson fell far short in informing his constituents about the issue, pro or con, and bringing their concerns to the table.
For 6B08 southeast of Lincoln Park, incumbent Neil Glick is facing two strong candidates, DC school teacher Laura McSorley and Michael McCamman. Glick has been an excellent Commissioner, and we endorse him for another term, but we encourage his challengers to stay active and continue to contribute. The community could benefit from both of them.
In the other 6B races, we have not heard convincing arguments to favor the challengers over incumbents Mary Wright (6B02), Norman Metzger (6B03), Kirsten Oldenburg (6B04), and Carol Green (6B07). All have worked hard for their districts and made positive contributions to the neighborhood. While complaints about ANC 6B's openness to other ideas are valid, the commission might be most open to ideas, participation and debate if its members represent a diversity of different views instead of a solid bloc from any specific faction.
Comments
@ggwash
- Metro bag searches aren't always optional
- Young kids try to assault me while biking
- Redeveloping McMillan is the only way to save it
- Endless zoning update delay hurts homeowners
- Focus transportation on downtown or neighborhoods?
- DDOT agrees to repave 15th Street cycle track
- Vienna Metro town center won't have a town center
The somewhat strange thing is I spoke with Grace Daughtridge and she is actually a somewhat avid biker. She just sees it as something that's for elites (she was talking in terms of athletes) and did not see the transit benefit that bikes can provide. She also seems overly concerned with parking issues. On the other hand she seems to really get infrastructure issues (particularly sidewalks).
Rodger Moffatt seems to somewhat get smart growth but not totally. He, for instance is pro-setback and likes low rise.
by Steven Yates on Oct 27, 2010 12:32 pm • link • report
by Bradley Soule on Oct 27, 2010 12:36 pm • link • report
by Alex B. on Oct 27, 2010 12:47 pm • link • report
by David Alpert on Oct 27, 2010 12:48 pm • link • report
by The Advoc8te on Oct 27, 2010 1:53 pm • link • report
According to DC BOEE, Cara Lea Shockley and Kathleen Hoppe are both running for the ANC 6D02 seat being vacated by David Sobelsohn.
by cminus on Oct 27, 2010 1:59 pm • link • report
by David Alpert on Oct 27, 2010 2:08 pm • link • report
BTW, I wish the author would disclose his/her identity.
by Snowpeas on Oct 27, 2010 2:21 pm • link • report
Arlena Chaney is also running as a write in. I heard her and Cara Shockley speak (Kathleen Hoppe was unable to make it). They didn't really touch on issues discussed on this blog other than Shockley being for Shuttle Bug service (and perhaps charging somewhere in the neighborhood of $.25 for it ) and Chaney wanting brighter streets, particularly by the Metro.
You can read the 6D candidates write ups here, starting at page 6 (PDF):
http://www.swdc.org/news/news_issues/Southwester_NOV_2010.pdf
by Steven Yates on Oct 27, 2010 2:22 pm • link • report
Makes quite a bit of sense, actually. For most residents, the issue is high traffic speeds and traffic volume. You don't address those problems by adding a couple more lanes and turning it into a second SE/SW Freeway.
Well, maybe you do. But then you lose any claim to being pro-bicycle.
by oboe on Oct 27, 2010 2:31 pm • link • report
So Grace, who's more important, the residents or the commuters?
by wd on Oct 27, 2010 2:59 pm • link • report
I am not sure where you got the information from about "adding more lanes" - that would never fly in SW. Maine/M Street is already the second SW/SE Freeway. Unless Gabe Klein and Mr. Wells have some secret plans to reroute cars away from Maine/M street, IMHO removing a car lane does NOT improve the situation it just turns 6 lanes of bumper-to-bumper traffic into 4 lanes. Don't see how that reduces the speed or the volume but what do I know.
by Snowpeas on Oct 27, 2010 2:59 pm • link • report
by Mary C. Williams on Oct 27, 2010 3:02 pm • link • report
What's the volume of four lanes of congested, bumper-to-bumper traffic moving at a crawl versus six lanes of congested bumper-to-bumper traffic moving at a crawl?
Simply, transportation planners should solve the auto congestion and parking problems on M Street before adding to them.
This doesn't really *say* anything. How should the "congestion and parking problems" be solved? Tear down some buildings and widen the street? Maybe erect a set of elevated lanes and go with the "double-decker highway" solution?
The traffic sucks. It's going to continue to suck whether there are four travel lanes or eight. (The only possible way to mitigate it is to offer folks alternatives.)
So essentially our choice is to have commuter-dominated traffic congestion and a Hellish street-scape, or commuter-dominated traffic congestion and amenities for residents.
If you want to make an impact on commuter traffic, you're better off investing your energies in expanded shuttle services for commuters from RFK into town.
by oboe on Oct 27, 2010 3:18 pm • link • report
We need level headed commissioners to serve our community.
by SMD01 resident on Oct 27, 2010 3:18 pm • link • report
The section of M Street I am familiar with is six lanes, and rarely congested. In fact, the road is so wide open that cars regularly drive 35 in a 25 zone. This road should be given a "road diet", creating one permanent lane of on-street parking, a bike lane, and sidewalk bulb-outs to reduce crossing distances. The existing extra wide lanes could be narrowed. The cross section would then be two lanes in each direction, a bike lane in each direction and a permanent parking lane rather than the non-rush-only parking that turns into more wide-open racetrack.
And I'm on a bike on M, more than twice a day usually.
by Michael Perkins on Oct 27, 2010 3:24 pm • link • report
by Jon on Oct 27, 2010 3:25 pm • link • report
by David Alpert on Oct 27, 2010 3:31 pm • link • report
by Nichole on Oct 27, 2010 3:35 pm • link • report
No, it exemplifies a problem with the ANC system. We should act with a presumption that sidewalk dining is allowable and strip ANCs of the power to single-handedly oppose natural expansion of sidewalk dining in retail/restaurant-zoned areas. Trying to replace every since ANC SMD with a member that's going to be "reasonable" on this issue is just rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic.
by JustMe on Oct 27, 2010 3:42 pm • link • report
by Glenn Favreau on Oct 27, 2010 3:45 pm • link • report
by Glenn Favreau on Oct 27, 2010 3:48 pm • link • report
by Paul on Oct 27, 2010 4:05 pm • link • report
@Oboe The point I was making, that you obviously missed, is that adding a bike lane does nothing to improve the traffic condition on Maine/M.
Interesting that calling for a better transportation plan is automatically considered anti-bike. Certainly makes some posters seem self-interested and selfish.
by Snowpeas on Oct 27, 2010 4:07 pm • link • report
I think that's wrong. The city should be providing resources and neighborhood associations should be raising funds for community amenities. The ANC Commissioners should not be acting as minor-league extortionists simply because we made the unfortunate mistake of giving "weight" to ANC votes when it comes to development and licenses. That encourages a culture of corruption and payoffs in exchange for ANC commissioners not interfering with things they shouldn't be interfering with in the first place.
by JustMe on Oct 27, 2010 4:11 pm • link • report
by Paul on Oct 27, 2010 4:14 pm • link • report
by JustMe on Oct 27, 2010 4:17 pm • link • report
The ZC hears and decides requests for special multi-purpose projects referred to as Planned Unit Developments (PUDs). A PUD is a planning tool which allows a developer greater flexibility in site planning and building design. This flexibility permits the developer to incorporate amenities in the project that exceed those that could have been achieved under the general provisions of the Zoning Regulations. When a project is designated as a PUD, the ZC usually mandates the development of standards specifically tailored to the project.
by Paul on Oct 27, 2010 4:17 pm • link • report
Being on an ANC seems to make every commissioner think he's some kind of lord of the manor where people come to him begging for his approval. It fosters, as I said, a culture of corruption and payoffs and inertia.
by JustMe on Oct 27, 2010 4:22 pm • link • report
"At community meetings on the Pennsylvania Avenue project, called Capitol Hill Town Square, it was extremely disturbing the way project opponents tried to drown out the project team, rudely applauded every hostile comment, and made absolute declarations of opposition to any change whatsoever even before the team had developed any options."
I was at each of these meetings and I don't think it's fair to call the opposition to the project "extremely disturbing." The fact is that the plaza project is not a project about traffic calming, walkability, or connecting streets. It's about a thirst for power by the leaders at Barracks Row Main Street and their desire to put their name on something tangible. The outcry against the project was not just from the people at EMMCA; it was from people from all walks of life - teenagers to elder folk. The bottom line is that the whole thing has been done with such secrecy, that very few people in this community are interested in playing along with these people who still believe that because they have money, they should control the neighborhood. And there's also a large group of people who oppose the project but because of neighborhood politics, could never come out publicly and say that. I have yet to run into someone who thinks this whole thing is a good idea, or who thinks it's a good idea and that Barracks Row should be the organization to carry out such a project. It just seems like your own personal opinions about the plaza are kind of clouding the reality here. It's true - there is a lot of vocal opposition to the idea of spending millions of dollars to re-route Pennsylvania Avenue. But it seems really unfair for you to characterize the opposition as if it's some kind of rebellion or something. Yes, there are folks who don't want it who could probably be put in the "busy-body pay them no attention" column. But there are also a lot of people -- well respected people in the community -- who also oppose this project.
"At Hine, meanwhile, the developers conducted a very open process to solicit community input, but EMMCA continues to allege a lack of transparency because they are not pleased with the outcome. We don't like having a huge parking lot under Hine either, but otherwise look forward to seeing the project built. "
I'm not sure why this article has put so much focus on EMMCA. Perhaps it's because they are organized, stand up for what they believe in, and don't give up. However, again you seem to try to negate the reality of the situation by chalking it up to EMMCA being the ones jumping up and down about it. The fact is that 3 out of 4 of the final development teams for Hine WERE incredibly open in soliciting community input. The one who wasn't was Stanton/Eastbanc. It's just false to pretend that they were. Regardless of whether or not you believe that they were the right ones to get the contract or not, the reality is that time and time again, story after story was shared about how difficult it was to get Stanton/Eastbanc to meet with the community an have an open transparent process. I guess they assumed that would all happen in the PUD process -- and it will. But they were the only developer that did NOT conduct a very open process to solicit community input. And again, it's unfair for you to use EMMCA's "allegations" as a means for discrediting that reality.
"The Eastern Market Metro Community Association (EMMCA), led by a pair of residents who live at Eastern Market Metro, Thomas and Barbara Riehle, is trying to unseat most of the current ANC."
Again, I get that EMMCA is an easy target. They do and say a lot and thus leave themselves open for discussion etc. And yes, it's true that EMMCA is interested in seeing change in ANC6B, but the way you set this up would lead readers to believe that this is some kind of coup. What is so wrong with the idea of unseating commissioners who need to go? Isn't that how democracy works? I personally don't agree with everything that EMMCA says or does, but I do agree that there are a few commissioners that are not doing anything good for ANC 6B. And I will always agree that no one has the RIGHT to an elected seat, whether they've done a stellar job or not. A little bit of competition has already helped some of our less active commissioners get more serious about their jobs -- and that's a good thing, in my book.
"In the other 6B races, we have not heard convincing arguments to favor the challengers over incumbents Mary Wright (6B02), Norman Metzger (6B03), Kirsten Oldenburg (6B04), and Carol Green (6B07). All have worked hard for their districts and made positive contributions to the neighborhood. While complaints about ANC 6B's openness to other ideas are valid, the commission might be most open to ideas, participation and debate if its members represent a diversity of different views instead of a solid bloc from any specific faction."
To say you've not heard convincing arguments to favor challengers over incumbents listed above ... have you looked very hard? Our local blog Hill is home has posted several Meet the Candidates pieces. Here's a link to the candidates for 6B02: http://www.thehillishome.com/?s=6B02. Frishburg seems to have a well thought-out agenda with a focus on walkability, families, and positive economic development. Wright gives us a list of what she's done thus far: got signs up around Eastern Market, bricks and cobblestones on 7th Street (??), and "Advocated and represented your needs and concerns to city agencies." It tells me nothing - what does she believe in? What are her values? I would hope that ANY ANC commissioner would advocate and represent my needs to city agencies, but what do you stand for?
I will say that with regards to Norm Metzger, you're right - there's no handy information about his opponent. BUT, don't you think it's important to point out that Norm is incredibly supportive of slapping a moratorium down on Barracks Row? Whether it's the right thing or the wrong thing to do, it seems like a pretty important piece of information to leave out. And what about his stance on streetcars? Last I checked, he was not a fan. To me, it doesn't seem as though he has a very strong stance on non-automotive transportation. But maybe I'm wrong. I do know he and his wife are major players in CHRS ...
And for 6b04, here are the 3 candidates - each of which has different positions on things: http://www.thehillishome.com/?s=6b04. While you may not agree with either of Oldenburg's opponents, saying you haven't heard convincing arguments to favor the challengers kind of implies that the challengers don't really have a stance. Each of these does -- and actually Janzich's position has a lot to do with the redevelopment of Hine -- which will have a SERIOUS impact on the neighborhood. MORE people should be talking about that project - and economic development in general for that matter.
And 6b07: http://www.thehillishome.com/?s=6b07: Marker makes many points that hit home with a lot of what the "new" Capitol Hill want - smart development that fosters sustainable commercial corridors -- paying attention to Penn Ave not just 7th Street and Barracks Row, schools, safety, green space, bike lanes, transparency, communication ... all very important things! Green celebrates a solid reputation as a solid ANC commissioner and has certainly done a lot of positive things - but Marker does have more SPECIFICS about his views -- livability and biking seem to be imporant to him. not that they aren't important to Green too, but she doesn't mention it at all.
In the end, I'm not saying that I don't necessarily agree with your endorsements. I think this whole post would have come across far differently had you just left EMMCA out of it. It just seems as though you are using them to discredit the things you don't necessarily agree on. Not only is it not really fair, but it's not always accurate. Again, I get that they are organized and vocal and they obviously irritate you to some extent, but that doesn't mean that everything they're saying and standing up for is wrong. Setting the tone of the post like this I fear will only serve to discourage people from getting involved in the future. It was amazing to see how many people stepped up to the plate and threw their name in the hat for this race -- not just in 6B but across the Ward. That didn't happen just because of EMMCA. It happened because people felt like there actually was the possibility of change. Maybe EMMCA became a big cheerleader for that -- and they have every right to do so -- but it doesn't mean they made it happen, which is kind of what your post implies.
Overall, you make some pretty good arguments for why you made most of your endorsements. But it really falls apart when you get to the last part. Even if there aren't convincing arguments for the other people, what is it about those 4 incumbents that makes you OK with sticking with them? It just seems like you took the easy way out on that one. I think we would all benefit from knowing what each of those four incumbents has done/is planning to do/believes in that has had an impact on you.
And just on a side note - do you plan to do anything on the other two ANCs in Ward 6? I would be very interested to read GGW's take on those races as well!
by Jon on Oct 27, 2010 4:34 pm • link • report
GGW just posted the below in today's afternoon links:
"A new project in Fort Greene, Brooklyn includes a variety of affordable housing, a playground, and other open space. None of that would have been economical if NYC hadn't given the developer permission to waive all of the required parking. "
GGW calling attention to the above suggests this blog is not against amenities for zoning relief quid pro quo if the exchange follows their urbanist paradigm.
by Paul on Oct 27, 2010 4:37 pm • link • report
As for transportation, I am the only candidate who is bringing up the fact that the Eastern Market metro area is planned as a hub for mas transit and there is very little community awareness or engagement on the substance of that. I have called for the ANC to create a citizen-led committee to look at the long term issue of parking and transportation. I have been working to get more infant care on the hill so that we are not a nanny only community.
David or others who posted the main article, please look for my email and I look forward to talking with you.
Here is the letter I just sent to voters in the district:
Dear Neighbor,
I am writing to ask for your vote to be our neighborhoodÂ’s next representative to Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6B.
Our neighborhood is a great place to live, and like you, I love it here. Its historic charm, services, walkability and overall quality of day-to-day life is not something we should take for granted. There are however significant changes coming to the Hill, and our neighborhood deserves a more active and engaged ANC to help make the best of them:
â— The Hine School conversion to offices, retail and housing.
â— The Library of Congress plans on East Capitol for a scholar residence.
â— The Maples / Friendship House conversion to condos and townhouses.
â— Continuing efforts to improve the Eastern Marker Metro plaza, but not sitting still for any ill-advised re-routing of Pennsylvania Ave.
â— Street cars on 8th Street.
That is a lot of change all in the 18 blocks that constitute our single member district in ANC6B. There are also broader community interests where I believe that an active ANC and engaged neighbors like us can help, such as getting more childcare on the Hill, finding the right mix of retail, and the addressing the many issues we all experience regarding traffic and parking.
We need ANC6B and our next commissioner to be more active and engaged in the big issues that will shape the future of our neighborhood. Our neighborhood deserves someone who can effectively represent our concerns to the City through more than just a vote on the Commission.
In my day job I am engaged complex policy issues, building coalitions of diverse interests and being a results-oriented advocate for the public interest. My life on the Hill includes raising two kids, being involved in the Eastern Market Metro Community Association, and volunteering for local and national social welfare organizations.
We have incredible talent in our neighborhood. Together, we can make the most of the changes occurring in our neighborhood while protecting all that we love about Capitol Hill. With your support, I will be a strong and active voice for our neighborhood on the ANC and before the City. Thank you for your vote and the opportunity to serve.
by Ivan Frishberg on Oct 27, 2010 4:44 pm • link • report
by Snowpeas on Oct 27, 2010 4:44 pm • link • report
Elaboration, please?
by oboe on Oct 27, 2010 4:47 pm • link • report
As a citizen, I will be the first to admit that I have no background or expertise in urban planning, transit, or traffic flow. Why you think that creating a "citizen-led" committee -- dominated primarily by the sort of people with nothing better to do than go to committee meetings -- is going to be able to help handle these issues is beyond me.
I understand that the culture of DC is inherently suspicious of business owners, but that is no reason to defend -- or minimize -- the irrational behavior of the EMMCA or to condemn Barracks Row Main Street simply for who it is. If there are rational arguments about the rerouting and plaza, let's hear them.
by JustMe on Oct 27, 2010 4:56 pm • link • report
I did not demonize business. I have retail businesses supporting me. But the Town Square process was a waste of money. The arguments against were made and ignored. My argument is to move on and really focus on the issues around Hine, the beautification of the metro area and the retail mix on 8th street to come up with a better and more coherent connected plan going forward.
Wouldn't it be better to engage the community (residents, businesses, residents who are business owners) in that kind of a front end process than to have a task force that ignores public sentiment or an ANC that has a tendency to duck the big issues all together.
As far as citizens not having expertise, that is not my impression of Capitol Hill. The ANC is citizen led, city council are citizen. We have an abundance of talent on the Hill and a history of the engagement in decisions being handled by too few.
by Ivan Frishberg on Oct 27, 2010 5:08 pm • link • report
On the parking side, I have neighbors who have started to go around an count up the street spots that apparently have no rational reason for not being legal parking. They want to work with the City to make use of those spaces without crossing any safety lines. Our district is divided between the resident parking pilot and the old system. There is huge distrust and confusion about the pilot. Hine is going to add traffic. 390 parking spots underground proposed on that site, not to mention commercial delivery and service traffic - ALL on 7th street with only two exit routes; on to PA Ave which has a choke point already at 7th and down C St to 6th which is a constant choke point on the weekend.
All of this is begging for thoughtful planning, engaging the neighbors, getting ahead of the problem.
That is what I am talking about.
by Ivan Frishberg on Oct 27, 2010 5:13 pm • link • report
I have always supported a bikeshare facility at Lincoln Park. My preferred site is in the Park itself. I hope that DDOT will continue to vigorous pursue the option they discussed at the meeting about designating the bikesharing as a public transit option — thereby cutting through the bureaucratic problems.
What I objected to was the placement of that facility at a location with major safety concern – specifically the traffic island at East Capitol and 13th Street SE. At the ANC 6A meeting, DDOT acknowledged that this SE site raised safety concern. We face serious pedestrian and bicycle safety issues around Lincoln Park. Earlier this week, a girl on a bicycle was stuck by a car on East Capitol Street of the Park. Fortunately, she is ok. But this could have been a tragic illustration of our fears. Pedestrian and bicycle safety is a key element of a livable, walkable neighborhood. I will not compromise in my fight to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety.
On parking minimum, we will have to agree to disagree. My position has always been that we need to limit parking in office buildings, not residential buildings. My strategy is to have people leave their cars at home. And that includes all the commuters who daily drive into our city. Eliminating parking minimums for DC residential facilities will not get at that part of the problem.
Ken
by Ken Jarboe on Oct 27, 2010 5:29 pm • link • report
No, I'm talking about the SE section between 8th and NJ Ave.
>If traffic is so good on M Street why do you need dedicated bike lanes?
Traffic is so good that the cars go 35 in a 25 zone. Not conducive to riding a bicycle, and not conducive to safe crossing by pedestrians.
> your plan will not reduce traffic speed or congestion.
Drivers react to a narrower corridor visually by slowing down. This is a part of traffic calming. Getting drivers to drive 25 by giving them psychological cues rather than speed traps is better for everyone.
@Oboe The point I was making, that you obviously missed, is that adding a bike lane does nothing to improve the traffic condition on Maine/M.
If some people shift modes, or the congestion encourages drivers to take another route (like the SESW freeway) then perhaps the congestion is self-limiting.
>Interesting that calling for a better transportation plan is automatically considered anti-bike. Certainly makes some posters seem self-interested and selfish.
I'm not sure how what was called for is a "better transportation plan", it seems like what was called for was for planners to "solve the congestion and parking problems on M street".
That's kinda like saying "make it better" without providing any specifics. I've proposed something pretty specific. Two lanes, a bike lane, and a parking lane, bulb outs for bus stops and pedestrian crossings. Narrower lanes. Not a traffic sewer of three wide-open lanes encouraging cars to drive fast. This should be a "complete street".
by Michael Perkins on Oct 27, 2010 6:30 pm • link • report
Recognizing that the Eastern Market neighborhood lacked an organized residents' group, EMMCA has grown to about 100 households. EMMCA has sponsored three candidates events this election season -- Ward 6 Democratic Council Candidates Forum (co-hosted by Capitol Hill Public Schools Parent Organization and Sports on the Hill), ANC6B Candidates Meet and Greet, and State Board of Education Candidates Forum (with many co-sponsors.) EMMCA also went to the trouble of producing a VOTER GUIDE for ANC races. It's posted on The Hill Is Home and the Hill Rag's websites.
EMMCA did endorse one of the developers for HIne that lost the bid, but that was a year ago. Members of EMMCA recently met with the chosen developer, Stanton Development Corp., to make suggestions and voice concerns. EMMCA hopes these constructive conversations continue as the project moves forward. (To your list of 6B failures, you may want to add "while neighbors in 6B waited anxiously to hear news about the plans for the HIne School development, in late August, ANC6B turned down a request from Stanton Development to present preliminary design plans to the community."
You claim that EMMCA members were rude during community meetings about rerouting Pennsylvania Avenue to accommodate a traffic circle. You may remember that at the first so-called community input meeting on Town Square, the presentation took up 1 hour and 45 minutes of a two hour meeting, so much for community input. The next time, the presentation lasted a full hour. I don't recall anyone being rude, except for Town Square Task Force Co-Chair David Perry, who seems not to be able to be anything but rude. Just this week, I was told that Town Square is dead. Have you heard something different?
Here's what EMMCA doesn't do: "field candidates" or endorse candidates.
For me personally, after attending 18 of the last 19 ANC6B meetings, I, not EMMCA, made several suggestions for improving transparency. They included
such radical ideas as posting meeting locations on 6B's website and giving audience members copies of documents 6B would be acting on. These common sense suggestions were written off by Kirsten Oldenberg, who you endorsed, as complaints from EMMCA. Ken Jarboe said the Executive Committee would consider them. Guess what? The EC met last night and NEVER MENTIONED them.
It is absolutely true that after nearly two full years of observing ANC6B's nearly obsessive micromanagement of residents' home repairs while dodging real issues like Town Square, the Hine Development, Barracks Row retail mix, streetcars, and even CaBis, I, not EMMCA, encouraged three people to run. Believe me, it didn't tale much. The frustration level in 6B is very high.
I completely agree with some of your choices. For incumbents, I would vote for Francis Campbell, Carol Green and Neil Glick. I can't wait to vote for Brian Pate against the leader of the duck-and-dodge pack, Ken Jarboe.
Mary Wright is a very nice person, and she does a good job on the ABC Committee. But Mary Wright never speaks. She never asks a question or expresses a point of view. She just follows the Ken Jarboe lead. I like Norm Metzger, too, but Norm should be recusing himself from most votes because of his ties to the CHRS, and he never does.
Finally, there's Kirsten Oldenberg. I used to put her in the same category as Mary Wright, blindly following Ken Jarboe's lead. Then, she showed her real colors when she used parliamentary tricks to block a volunteer from joining an ANC committee. Who knew Kirsten is another word for Machiavelli. Larry Janezich, her opponent, is a fair-minded, open, energetic community activist who actually listens to the views of his neighbors. In 6B, that's a welcome change.
Barbara Riehle
by BarbaraRiehle on Oct 27, 2010 7:07 pm • link • report
M Street SW is a street in my neighborhood, but it doesn't serve my neighborhood -- it diminishes it. For an hour or two a day, M Street SW is packed with suburbanites looking to shave a few minutes off their commutes by cutting through a residential community. At other hours, it primarily carries suburbanites looking for a shortcut and driving well over the speed limit. At no time of day does it meaningfully serve Southwest residents; instead, it's a wall splitting the neighborhood in half. Putting in bike lanes, redesigning the road to make it clear that it's not supposed to be a major arterial, and lengthening the crossing time for the crosswalk at 4th and M would improve the quality of life in the neighborhood immensely.
Heck, the bike lane itself is negotiable. If my neighbors would rather have a wider sidewalk or picnic tables or a playground or a row of street vendors, so be it. Any of these options would be an improvement over what we have now.
And I say all this despite not even owning a bicycle. (I do have a Capital Bikeshare membership, but I also have a Zipcar membership, so that's kind of a wash. I'd support it even if I didn't have the Capital Bikeshare membership, because my main desire is to make M Street a street that I can cross easily and safely on my way to the store or Metro, rather than the dangerous barrier it is today.)
by cminus on Oct 27, 2010 10:56 pm • link • report
Perhaps it would be helpful to understand the process GGW uses to determine which candidates to endorse. I have never been contacted by anyone with GGW about my candidacy or my thoughts on whatever GGW deems important issues.
I believe I am the only candidate running in ANC 6B that believes the primary purpose of the ANC is to be the voice and power of our neighbors who have or see problems in the neighborhood. As important as these "big ticket" projects are (Hine, Town Square, etc.), holes in the sidewalk in front of 600 D St SE, confusing traffic signs, trash collection at midnight are equally or more important. Still, little or no time is devoted to any such problems that might be raised at an ANC meeting and, at least in my case, pleas to the commissioner often go unanswered.
My belief that resolving the day to day problems of our neighborhood should have the highest priority at the ANC sets me apart from others seeking office.
I decided to run for ANC 6B02 nearly 2 years ago after the Eastern Market fire and relocation to the East Hall. At that time, trash collection for Eastern Market became so lax that mountains of trash would accumulate before collection (see http://easternmarketdump.pbworks.com/). Rats infested the area. I turned to EMCAC, ANC 6B and Tommy Wells for assistance. EMCAC simply deferred to the managers, Eastern Market Ventures. ANC 6B ignored my pleas and Tommy Wells office did little more than put me in contact with district departments. This problem was resolved only because of my determination and efforts with the district departments. Not a single "neighborhood" representative group used any of its authority to help correct the problems.
The lack of assistance from each of these groups continues as my neighborhood struggles to force the Department of Parks and Recreation to maintain the rear of the Rumsey Center property on C St SE. Weeds grow to 6 feet. Trash accumulates. For two years now, nothing is done until my neighbors and I battle with and cajole DPR. Again, no aid from ANC or Wells.
As an aside, for what it's worth, I would much rather see a parking lot under Hine than have the new residents occupy scarce parking on C and 8th Streets.
Regards,
Vernon Mallu
Candidate for ANC 6B02
by Vernon Mallu on Oct 28, 2010 3:17 am • link • report
I find it ironic that the EMMCA response failed to acknowledge GGW's endorsement of one of their alleged slate candidates.
Vernon Mallu
by Vernon Mallu on Oct 28, 2010 3:21 am • link • report
by Snowpeas on Oct 28, 2010 9:25 am • link • report
by Michael Perkins on Oct 28, 2010 9:41 am • link • report
We face serious pedestrian and bicycle safety issues around Lincoln Park. Earlier this week, a girl on a bicycle was stuck by a car on East Capitol Street of the Park. Fortunately, she is ok. <,b>But this could have been a tragic illustration of our fears. Pedestrian and bicycle safety is a key element of a livable, walkable neighborhood. I will not compromise in my fight to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety.
You'll forgive my saying, but this seems rather hacky. That girl wasn't struck because there's a bikshare station 20' away from--rather than inside--Lincoln Park. She was struck because drivers have gotten the message that they have the right-of-way at all times, and that the highest priority is given to clearing a path for, and encouraging the movement of cars.
To my thinking, NIMBYs have already done everything they can to turn Lincoln Park into a speedway. The combination of fighting any commercial endeavor in the spaces around the park, with fierce urgency of "clearing sightlines" for drivers has made it look like the Talladega 500. It's time to give serious thought to how we can apply serious traffic-calming measures to the six-lane superhighway that surrounds the park. Not continuing the decades-long local tradition of making it look as much like I-66 as possible.
by oboe on Oct 28, 2010 10:17 am • link • report
But my personal feelings on that aside, I don't know anything about businesses that wanted to open there but couldn't and would be interested in learning.
by Nichole on Oct 28, 2010 10:23 am • link • report
But Grace Dandridge (6D05) surely is anti-bike if the following account is correct
Then there were the people who just don't like cyclists. One particularly angry woman [update: the elected First District Ward Six Rep for the South West Neighborhood Assmebly[sic] Grace E. Daughtridge] asked "Who are these bike lanes for? Who uses a bike to drop off their kids at school? Who brings home groceries for a family of four on a bicycle?" After each question several hands went up, to which she responded sarcastically each time "Congratulations, you must be real proud of yourself" and adding after the school question "You're an irresponsible parent." She continued "Older people don't even bike. This is elitist. These bike lanes are elitist and they only serve a few people. They don't service the whole community." Failing to note that in a city where less than half of all people drive, much of the roadway doesn't service the whole community. Another woman complained that cyclists don't follow the law, and asked how to protect pedestrians from cyclist. Wells avoid the question a bit, but noted that "we have sidewalks for pedestrians and roads designed for cars and we want to make space for bikes. But it isn't just about bikes."
by Jim Titus on Oct 28, 2010 10:40 am • link • report
by Jim Titus on Oct 28, 2010 10:42 am • link • report
by Snowpeas on Oct 28, 2010 10:57 am • link • report
by David C on Oct 28, 2010 11:02 am • link • report
http://www.jdland.com/dc/files/bikelanes-091016-proposaltobid.pdf
by Snowpeas on Oct 28, 2010 11:02 am • link • report
It adds cycle tracks, wider sidewalks and improved transit efficiency. Why won't these things benefit RESIDENTS? It might exert a cost on RESIDENTS who own cars (in the form of less parking), but it gives benefits to all RESIDENTS.
by David C on Oct 28, 2010 11:13 am • link • report
I think plenty of people are familiar with the M St SE/SW cycletrack proposal - what Michael seemed to be asking you for was documentation of your assertion that the community rejected this option.
by Alex B. on Oct 28, 2010 11:13 am • link • report
@David C - YES, parking is in short supply and the "widening of sidewalks" from Half street SW to Half St. SE involves a whopping 4 blocks, hence the minimal benefits I noted.
I am still waiting for the plan that will reduce traffic flow on M/Maine Street and don't think this plan is the answer.
by Snowpeas on Oct 28, 2010 11:45 am • link • report
Alas, the restaurants/businesses brought us more traffic, more garbage, more night brawls, less parking spaces, less peace and less safety; finally, they took away that feeling of a quaint residential area that was the main reason why many of us bought homes in this area in the first place.
Several meetings were organized between the Task Force and residents. On every occasion the residents were given little or no time to express their feelings about Triptych, Town Square , etc. In so many minutes we, the residents, would always express concerns re more traffic, more pollution and less safety.
The Task Force has already spent some $500k on preliminary studies and designs. We overheard that there is even more money coming from the Congress(!?) for reinventing the Metro Plaza . Eventually, we were told by Tip (never learned his last name), that a congressman from California(!!!) had gotten it as one of the earmarks two and a half years ago and given to the Task Force.
There is a difference between our congressional reps, tourists, employees who work in this area on one side, and the residents on the other side: the former come and go; WE STAY!
And we care about the future of our neighborhood by trying to improve it just like the people who had built those beautiful homes and parks more than hundred years ago!
Trying to elect smart, effective and caring people for our ANC is just the first step in that direction.
by Jasmina Miric on Oct 28, 2010 12:18 pm • link • report
by Real Eastern Market Adjacent Neighbor on Oct 29, 2010 1:13 pm • link • report
One of my hopes during this election cycle is to improve the quality of civic discourse in our community. REMAN--I would hope that you can get on board with that program and contribute to constructive discourse, instead of casting aspersions and aiding in the spread of innuendo. Can you agree to that? After all, we're not in high school!
by BRIAN PATE on Oct 29, 2010 9:55 pm • link • report
I will say that with regards to Norm Metzger, you're right - there's no handy information about his opponent. BUT, don't you think it's important to point out that Norm is incredibly supportive of slapping a moratorium down on Barracks Row? Whether it's the right thing or the wrong thing to do, it seems like a pretty important piece of information to leave out. And what about his stance on streetcars? Last I checked, he was not a fan. To me, it doesn't seem as though he has a very strong stance on non-automotive transportation. But maybe I'm wrong.
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Actually, it was sensible that "a pretty important piece of information" was left out, because it's not true. Yes, I'm organizing a session on the pros and cons of moratoria in other parts of the city but that doesn't translate into me favoring them, as indeed the City Paper clearly noted.
And on my supposed stance against streetcars, yes, Jon is indeed wrong. I certainly have questions about the implementation/costs'etc but certainly not an absolutist either way.
by Norman Metzger on Oct 30, 2010 8:14 am • link • report
by cminus on Oct 30, 2010 8:23 am • link • report
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