When I last testified before you in February, I outlined how essential Metro has been to the success of our region and stressed that we need the leadership and commitment of all area officials to the system’s success, and a similar commitment from staff to improving system communications, safety, incident response and customer service.
Category: Testimony & Letters
Testimony to WMATA Board of Directors regarding Takoma Development
We ask that the WMATA board approve the Takoma amended joint development agreement and public hearing. We support the proposed revised joint development agreement with EYA to construct at least 208 housing units in a mid-rise apartment building. This new proposal addresses key concerns of
opponents of the previous plan – including the preservation of a large open space in front of the station. The plan will add bus capacity, enhance pedestrian pathways, and bring drop off and disabled parking close to the elevator entrance.
Testimony at Oversight Hearing for DMPED & OP
We commend DMPED for listing affordable housing as one of its top 5 priorities. This is a welcome explicit commitment from the office. DC’s strong population growth and fiscal position enable it to respond to this crisis with policies and funding to directly address the housing needs of our moderate and low income families.
Testimony: DDOT Performance Oversight Hearing
With new leadership at DDOT, empowered by the Mayor, we have the opportunity to capitalize on the sound planning the agency has done over the last year. We ask that the Committee work with DDOT to ensure that the following priorities are implemented this year.
Testimony at Oversight Hearing on Dept of Housing and Community Development
We appreciate that the DC Council and Mayor Bowser have made the affordable housing crisis a top priority. The precipitous loss of low priced housing, and the significant rise in households burdened by housing costs are distressing trends, but they can be addressed.
Testimony to restore capital funding to the Bicycle Pedestrian Priority Areas
While Bicycle Pedestrian Priority Areas were first created 20 years ago by state legislation, the program has been slow to start. Now, as driving has begun to decline in the county over the last decade and rates of walking, cycling, and transit use in the county have been on the rise, it’s more important than ever to ensure it is safe and comfortable to walk, cycle, and take transit. Last year, people driving struck 483 people who were walking in the county – 60 more people than in 2013. We have much more work to do.
Comments on Seven Corners Plan, Sears Site, and the Future of Fairfax
The development proposals for Seven Corners and the Sears site, when combined with improved transit connections and an improved street network, will attract professionals and a diversity of incomes, while improving the look and feel of Route 7, enhancing property values throughout the area.
Testimony to WMATA Board Regarding FY2016 Budget
This is why we so strongly support Metro’s rehabilitation programs and Metro Momentum, beginning with the investment in 8-car trains and downtown station capacity. It’s also why we — and 80% of those you polled — support increasing state and local investment to meet Metro’s full operating budget shortfall, rather than include $46 million in fare increases and service cuts.
Support for BZA Case Number 18866 – 1108 16th Street, NW
We wish to express our support for the proposed reduced parking to a total of 4 spaces to serve the redevelopment project at 1108 16th Street, NW which will provide office space and 15 residences, while preserving the historic façade of the original building. Given the awkward site and preserved historic features, the reduced parking is reasonable relief, especially for such an accessible location.
State Transportation Priority Letter to Montgomery Co. Council
State law governing the priority letter process “requires MDOT and the local jurisdictions seeking project funding to demonstrate the relationship between prioritized projects and the long-term goals of the Maryland Transportation Plan and local land use plans.” The goals of the Maryland Transportation Plan focus on safety for all users, system preservation, and environmental conservation.