Cylists of all ages ride together by Joe Flood licensed under Creative Commons.

“Bike buses” on the rise in Arlington

“Bike buses” — bicycle routes that transport children to and from school — have grown in popularity since originating in Spain, and Arlington now has one of its own. In addition to increased bike safety and lower traffic congestion, both children and parents have reported an increase in morale since the route began in 2021.  (Jo DeVoe / ARLNow)  

Maryland receives $1.5 million grant to plan Purple Line-oriented development

The Federal Transit Administration has awarded Maryland a $1.5 million grant for the purpose of development alongside the upcoming Purple Line. While the Maryland Transit Authority didn’t respond to an inquiry about how it plans to use the grant, experts have long discussed how to ensure smart growth alongside the Purple Line, which will likely inform how the latest funds are spent.  (Ian Duncan / Post)  

Washington-Baltimore area sees high numbers of office-to-apartment conversions

According to an analysis from one real estate group, the Washington-Baltimore area has seen the highest number of office-to-apartment conversions in the nation. Four of its cities — the District, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Hyattsville — are in the top ten of the most conversions.  (Mimi Montgomery / Washingtonian)  

Montgomery County’s bike and e-scooter lessons are a huge success

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation, in tandem with the Washington Area Bicyclists Association and three e-scooter companies, offered scooter and bike lessons to county residents this past fall. The program was a success, with over 250 residents participating, and classes will begin again in the spring.  (Hannah Ziegler / Montgomery Community Media)  

Residential development coming to Union Market, replacing a parking lot

Developer EDENS filed plans for a two-building residential project in Union Market. The residential project will have 375 units, with approximately 15 percent being affordable, and subterranean parking.  (DC UrbanTurf)  

Metro hopes Silver Line and return of trains will increase ridership and revenue

Metro’s rail ridership is increasing but still below the agency’s goals, which has not alleviated the system’s financial concerns. However, leaders are optimistic that the new Silver Line expansion and an increased number of trains will entice riders. (Editor’s note: Metro board member Tracy Hadden Loh, also GGWash’s board chair, is quoted in this article. She has no editorial input.)   (Justin George / Post)  

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