A proposal to privatize operations and maintenance of stations and track on the Silver Line has taken an initial, tentative step forward.

"A proposal to outsource operations of the Silver Line took a significant step Monday, when Metro officials issued a formal 'request for information' from potential contractors who might be interested in the job," reports Martine Powers.
The second phase of the Silver Line is under construction and expected to open by 2020, opening 23 miles of track beyond Duller Airport to Loudoun County, Virginia. The privatization plan is designed to "save money by relying more on outside contractors."
According to Powers, the idea has been slow in developing toward fruition, but "the formal 'request for information' could give Metro administrators a better a sense of whether the idea is feasible, how much interest there is from contractors and what a potential contract could look like."
FULL STORY: Metro gets serious about outsourcing Silver Line service

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.

Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.

Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Santa Clarita
Ascent Environmental
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service