Washington DC News
news
Washington, D.C. is under an excessive heat warning, with temperatures expected to hit 100°F this weekend, prompting the city to extend pool hours and open cooling centers. Metro announced major delays on the Red Line due to emergency track repairs, disrupting thousands of commuters. In breaking news, the National Park Service unveiled plans for a $25 million renovation of the Memorial reflecting pool. Meanwhile, D.C. police reported a 15% drop in violent crime compared to last summer, though carjackings remain a concern.
Political
Mayor Muriel Bowser proposed a $21 billion budget, prioritizing affordable housing, education, and public safety, including funding for 350 new police officers. On Capitol Hill, Congress debated a new bipartisan bill to overhaul D.C.’s criminal code, while the Senate confirmed a new federal judge for the D.C. Circuit. The White House announced $500 million in federal grants for D.C. infrastructure projects, including repairs to the aging Key Bridge.
Economic
D.C.’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.8%, with the federal government and tech sectors driving job growth. Downtown office vacancies reached a record 22%, raising concerns about the future of commercial real estate. A new report showed housing prices rose 8% year-over-year, worsening affordability challenges. Amazon announced a new $300 million HQ2 expansion in Arlington, creating 2,000 jobs.
Elections
The race for D.C. Attorney General heated up as incumbent Brian Schwalb faced criticism over rising crime rates. Early voting began for the June primary, which includes a contentious ballot measure on rent control. Meanwhile, the D.C. Council approved a redistricting plan that could shift political power in Wards 7 and 8.
Entertainment
The Kennedy Center announced its 2024-25 season, featuring performances by Yo-Yo Ma and the National Symphony Orchestra. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture debuted a new exhibit on the Harlem Renaissance. In local music news
town
The Nationals remained in playoff contention behind a resurgent pitching staff, while the Commanders opened training camp with high hopes for their rookie quarterback. D.C. United advanced to the U.S. Open Cup semifinals, and the Mystics struggled through injuries in their WNBA season.
Employment
D.C. added 6,000 jobs last month, led by healthcare, hospitality, and federal contracting. Children’s National Hospital announced 500 new nursing positions, while Marriott pledged to hire 1,000 workers for its downtown properties. However, restaurant staffing shortages persisted, with 18% of jobs unfilled.
Legal
A federal judge blocked D.C.’s ban on right turns at red lights, citing insufficient evidence for safety benefits. The city settled a wrongful conviction lawsuit for $10 million after a man spent 25 years in prison. A high-profile corruption trial began for a former councilmember accused of bribery.
Business
Marriott shares rose 4% on strong travel demand, while Lockheed Martin dipped amid defense budget uncertainty. Capital One gained 3% after earnings beat, and Danaher Corporation announced a $1 billion stock buyback.
Forecast Forecast
Today: Sunny, 98°F (Heat Advisory)
Friday: 100°F, record high possible
Saturday: 99°F, isolated thunderstorms
Sunday: 94°F, scattered showers
Monday: 88°F, partly cloudy
Tuesday: 86°F, sunny
Wednesday: 90°F, humid
Upcoming Events
town:
7/27: Nationals vs. Dodgers (Nationals Park)
8/3: Commanders Preseason Opener (FedEx Field)
8/10: Mystics vs. Liberty (Entertainment & town Arena)
Movies & Theater:
Now Playing: "Oppenheimer" (IMAX at Air & Space Museum)
8/2: Shakespeare in the Park - Macbeth (Carter Barron)
Through 8/31: "The Lion King" (Kennedy Center)
Concerts & Festivals:
7/28: Capital Pride Concert (Freedom Plaza)
8/4: Jazz in the Garden (National Gallery of Art)
Community:
8/5: National Night Out (Neighborhood events citywide)
8/17: D.C. State Fair (RFK Campus)
This summary provides a snapshot of current events in Washington, D.C., including Forecast and upcoming entertainment. Let me know if you'd like additional details!
|