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Convention Center HQ Hotel Update
The team representing the city, the WCCA and the development group headed by Marriott executed in fall 2007 a Memorandum of Agreement outlining the terms upon which a new HQ Hotel will be built. They are now working to finalize the formal Funding and Development Agreement, necessary Leases, and a bond issuance plan to move the project forward. Given the District's permitting and zoning process, groundbreaking is expected in 2009 with a 3-year construction period thereafter. This is a large and complex public-private project, and time has had to be taken to develop a business model and conceptual design that met not only Marriott's needs but also those of all of the District's stakeholders. Having now achieved our basic agreement, the parties are moving forward as quickly as possible to finalize necessary documents and develop milestones and deadlines to assure the project moves forward as scheduled.
Taxi Cab Update
Recently, Mayor Fenty and DC Taxicab Commission President Leon Swain announced that the city is on track to implement time and distance meters into DC taxicabs by April 16, 2008. What does this mean for passengers? The starting cab fare will be set at $3, with an additional charge of 25 cents for each 1/6 mile traveled and 25 cents per minute of wait time. There will no longer be a rush hour or extra passenger surcharge. The maximum rate for a cab ride beginning and ending in DC will be $18.90 plus applicable charges such as luggage. For more information, click here. New Motorcoach Regulations
In response to safety, security and preservation requirements, the Capitol Police, the Department of Motor Vehicles and District of Columbia have implemented several new regulations that impact motorcoach travel within the city. Many other popular historic tour and travel destinations; such as Savannah, Charleston, Gettysburg and New York City; already have similar arrangements in place. These new regulations cover permitting and traffic flow for motorcoaches.
Effective immediately, coaches are precluded from traveling within certain locations on and around the grounds of the U.S. Capitol and utilizing many of the residential streets in the Capitol Hill Historic District. Motorcoach operators are also required to obtain permits for operation in the District. Click here (http://www.washington.org/tourbus/TourBusRegulations.html) for more information and to view maps of the routes affected.
Metro Update
With one of the safest, cleanest and most efficient public transportation systems in the country, DC’s Metrorail and Metrobus systems offer easy access to attractions, neighborhoods, hotels and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. In order to keep this clean and efficient system running smoothly, Metro has recently enacted a fare increase.
Metrorail fares have increased up to 75 cents per ride, with base fares now starting at $1.65 at rush hour, going up to $4.50. Off-peak base fares start at $1.35. Metro bus fares have increased from $1.25 to $1.35 per ride. Although Metro’s multi-day Passport is no longer available, planners can still purchase day passes, now priced at $7.80, or weekly passes starting at $26.40. Daily parking rates have also increased by 75 cents.
DC Circulator Route Modifications
While the DC Circulator still costs $1 per ride—with discounts available for bulk ticket purchases – planners will want to note route adjustments that went into effect in February 2008.
On the Convention Center (north-south) route, a new stop has been added at 7th and N Sts. NW, creating easier access for convention-goers.
The Union Station/Georgetown (east-west) route will no longer continue up Wisconsin Avenue, concentrating its service on the Georgetown waterfront. The stops impacted by this route change are now serviced by Metrobus #32. At the Union Station route terminus, the Circulator now stops on the bus level of the parking deck, offering riders sheltered waiting areas and less congestion. To catch the Circulator from Union Station, proceed to the bus level of the parking garage, accessible from the mezzanine level of the station with easy access and transfers to the Metro, VRE and MARC.
For more information or to inquire about bulk ticket sales, visit dccirculator.com/ticket.html or call customer service at 202-962-1423.
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