Andy Palanisamy · Storify

Tweets from SAE Govt- Industry Conference

Andy Palanisamy — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 21:07:23 GMT

A quick attempt to capture the live tweets from the SAE event held today

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Thu, Jan 31 2013 13:07:23

Google says they plan to release their auto car software tech in next 5 yrs @SAEIntl #SAEGovtIndustry
— Leigh Merino · Thu, Jan 31 2013 12:33:18

Hearing about what's coming for Autonomous Vehicles @SAEIntl #SAEGovtIndustry
— Leigh Merino · Thu, Jan 31 2013 12:21:46

"EU faster w standards, but @NHTSAgov working 2 bring regulations forward for adoption soon." ~Alan Korn, Meritor Wabco #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 12:14:28

"EU developing safety standards on lane departure, stability control, advance breaking systems..." ~Alan Korn, MeritorWabco #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 12:13:00

"Guidelines will be science based and reflect best available research." ~John Campbell, @Battelle #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 12:10:10

"Human factors guidelines: clear, relevant, easy to use reference document for stake holder." ~John Campbell, @Battelle #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 12:09:02

"Auditory and visual warnings were most effective." ~Alrik Svenson, @NHTSAgov #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:39:13

"Gained through commercial vehicle driver acceptance clinics." ~Alrik Svenson, @NHTSAgov #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:38:41

"Connected Vehicle Safety Pilot Program goal to gain acceptance of V2V, V2I systems & technology" ~Alrik Svenson, @NHTSAgov #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:37:57

"...via a dedicated short range communication system." ~Alrik Svenson, @NHTSAgov #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:35:41

"Future @USDOT vision = all light, heavy duty, motorcycle, pedestrians connected wirelessly..." ~Alrik Svenson, @NHTSAgov #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:35:10

Next up - highlights from the session "Commercial Vehicle Safety: Looking Ahead." #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:32:36

"Critical for industry to work with insurance provider on advancements of safety technology." ~Sullivan, @RiskInformation #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:03:02

"Telematics will allow for all auto accident data to be collected as device will be built in." ~Sullivan, @RiskInformation #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:02:15

'Telematics changing insurance industry - better understanding of actual driving behavior." ~B. Sullivan, @RiskInformation #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 11:00:38

"Consequently, relative to inflation, insurance premiums also falling due to safety features." ~Sullivan, @RiskInformation #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 10:47:56

"Insurance a $166 billion industry but relative to inflation profits shrinking from 10yrs ago" ~Sullivan, @RiskInformation #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 10:32:50

"There will be fewer accidents tomorrow than today based on advanced safety features." ~Brian Sullivan, @RiskInformation #SAEGovtIndustry
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 10:30:50

Time to catch up on highlights from #SAEGovtIndustry Meeting! Up first = yesterday's luncheon keynote w Brian Sullivan, @RiskInformation
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 10:29:16

Time for words of wisdom: Login to EngineerXchange & watch video featuring career advice from James Buczkowski, @Ford: http://ow.ly/hiPgE
— SAE International® · Thu, Jan 31 2013 09:22:40

Still Standing Tall.. New York's Iconic Grand Central Terminal Celebrates Century of Service

Andy Palanisamy — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 18:29:59 GMT

New York City's Grand Central Terminal is celebrating its 100th birthday this week. As the story goes, the station master of the old terminal--the first one was built in 1871--received his set of keys to the newly built transportation palace on February 1, 1913.

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Thu, Jan 31 2013 10:29:59

Grand Central Terminal :: Guess Who is Turning 100?

While Grand Central Terminal is one of the nations most historical landmarks, it has remained the busiest train station in the country....

And the top man for transportation in the country, Ray LaHood, U.S. Secretary of Transportation, blogged about this iconic transportation asset turning 100. His blog post offers a glimpse of the amazing facts behind this iconic landmark:

(1) The trains enter and depart the station using 67 tracks and 44 platforms on two service levels featuring a massive underground railyard.

(2) The entire station was built without disrupting existing rail service, a feat that still seems remarkable 100 years later.

(3) The terminal included an all-electric signal system, the only one in the U.S. at the time, and the longest amount of mainline railroad electrification in the nation.

Check the link below for Sec. LaHood's blog post and learn more about the station and its role in shaping NYC's economic development.

One of America's grandest terminals turns 100 - Welcome to the FastLane: The Official Blog of the U.S. Secretary of Transportation

It's a beauty on the outside, a beauty on the inside, and it has that clock. But transportation fans know its beauty isn't skin deep--it ...

And a few pictures from the web showing what this beauty of a building looks like today...

Grand Central Station, NYC · beardshaw123

en.wikipedia.org

Visitingdc

Grand Central Terminal · Daniel Wehner

Destination360

Typepad

Wide & Curvy Terminal · kross_edd

Grand Central Terminal turns 100 (via NY Daily News)

On Feb. 2, 2013, after ten years of construction, Grand Central Terminal opened to the public, despite not being entirely finished. It quickly became one of the largest and busiest commuter train stations in the world. Here, an engineer waves from the tracks as a train arrives at Grand Central in 1934. Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/grand-central-terminal-turns-100-gallery-1.1251094#ixzz2JZs4wXPK

Nydailynews

RT @larrysa: New York's GRAND CENTRAL Station turns 100. http://www.artinfo.com/news/story/861987/video-as-grand-central-terminal-turns-100-a-look-at-its-iconic http://twitpic.com/bzt6lk · Chloé Baril

Grand Central Station 100th birthday · AndrewDallos

RT @CBSThisMorning: We’re celebrating 100 years of NYC's iconic Grand Central Station - ahead on #CBSThisMorning. Photo: http://pic.twitter.com/nc15qrCn · A.J

Grand Central: 100 years · DanielCuper

Restoration on Grand Central Station's famous ceiling was completed in 1998. In 2010, new LED lights were installed to light up the painted constellations. Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/grand-central-terminal-turns-100-gallery-1.1251094#ixzz2JZu2b8qV

Nydailynews

@FRANKCUNHAIII: NYCity's Grand Central Station Turns 100 http://wp.me/sSjhX-gct #ILMA http://pic.twitter.com/9a9V7myZ · I LOVE MY ARCHITECT

The Mess Called #WMATA

Andy Palanisamy — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:57:28 GMT

A compilation of riders' reactions from around the web on WMATA's latest meltdown on the Green Line. And boy, it is ugly out there and getting worse! At this rate, WMATA will never recover its public image, and will continue to add polish to its terrible reputation.

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Wed, Jan 30 2013 17:32:40

Reminder: Avoid the Green Line if at all psosible. Service suspended, MAJOR DELAYS/CROWDING: http://wapo.st/XT4ODh. #wmata
— drgridlock · Wed, Jan 30 2013 15:50:05

@nbcwashington and.. You'll praise the wonderful job #wmata is doing? Bullshit! #metrobackward
— Steven · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:45:07

“@wmata: Green Line service temporarily suspended Navy Yard-Southern Ave. Shuttle buses en route. #wmata http://pic.twitter.com/poPX5wVm · Sabrina Sussman

RT @MetroDerp: Hey Stessel: "self-evacuate" shouldn't have to be a phrase used by anyone, ever. You incompetent motherfucker. #wmata
— Steven · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:43:25

@wmata There are NO shuttles. Overcrowded platform. Metro trains packed like sardines. Clueless metro workers. Help! http://pic.twitter.com/Uk902I53 · Irène |eRĒN

There's going to come a point tonight when I'll realize I should have just walked the 60 miles to my house. @wmata #wmata
— The Froats · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:47:13

RT @BrettDJacks: Stuck on #wmata under Anacostia river with no elec/AC on car or 2 hours. So hot it was raining condensation and people having seizures
— Gee · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:47:44

I'm very sorry, fire trucks and ambulances who want our bus to move out of the way, but the bus driver ran away. Can't make this up #wmata
— The Froats · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:44:25

Middle of rush hour chaos and confusion. Still no updates. @wmata http://pic.twitter.com/o3utacof · Malikah

RT @BrettDJacks: Stuck on #wmata under Anacostia river with no elec/AC on car or 2 hours. So hot it was raining condensation and people having seizures
— Clinton Yates · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:41:00

RT @RT_Thomson: Green line back. http://m.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock/wp/2013/01/30/green-line-delays/?hpid=z1 #wmata
— DowntownDC · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:40:33

Green Line service restored after major crowding and delays, with issues including riders trapped underground: http://wapo.st/XT4ODh. #wmata
— drgridlock · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:39:48

@wmata where is your contigency plan, I watched small children, women with babies and pregnant women get damn near trampled. Unacceptable.
— Monique 2.0 · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:12:20

Photo from a #wmata #GreenLine rider: "Almost 2 hours and I'm still not home." http://pix.myfoxdc.com/Media/View/3037001
— Katherine DuPre · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:39:37

Find Ted-o! RT“@SadieDing: Total insanity at Navy Yard #wmata http://pic.twitter.com/s29nnqBX” · The Froats

RT @dcmetrosucks: #WMATA Dan Stessel just confirmed on NBC news that Green Line customers took it upon themselves & self-evacuated from disabled train
— Saraswati Moline · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:36:54

“@Crislex: Why isnt @wmata tweeting about whats going on!?”<~ i think they'd say... "Ain't nobody got time for that!"
— Jeff Kirkman III · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:45:15

140 characters doesn't EVEN begin to describe this hell of an experience with. @wmata!!!!!!
— STRAWBERRY KISSES · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:50:12

RT @unsuckdcmetro: Doesn't Metro self evacuate on a near daily basis all over DC? #wmata
— Terry C · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:32:47

.@wmata buses aren't effective when you're stuck underground for 90 minutes and are then shuttled back to a stop that's not your usual one.
— Amin Vafa · Wed, Jan 30 2013 16:42:19

FTA celebrates 10,000 follows on Twitter with a #TranspoHaiku Party

Andy Palanisamy — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 22:24:34 GMT

Today the Federal Transit Agency hit a big milestone on Twitter, which has fast become a sweetheart for many progressives around the country.. The Tweets below capture the pre- and post-milestone celebrations..From now on, you can never say Federal government is boring...

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Fri, Jul 20 2012 15:27:03

It all started yesterday morning.. Twitter user (and buddygirl) @mamakoid and fellow #transit twitterati jumped into action to help FTA reach the milestone..

We're so close to our goal of 10,000 followers! Get ready for a fun #transpohaiku celebration when we hit it! #Transit #TransitThursday
— Federal Transit Admn · Thu, Jul 19 2012 08:45:57

FOLLOW NOW! MT @fta_dot: so close to our goal of 10,000 followers! Get ready for a #transpohaiku celebration! #TransitThursday
— Meghan Makoid · Thu, Jul 19 2012 08:50:02

Wow, we have great followers! Only 21 before our 10,000th follower #transpohaiku party! #transit
— Federal Transit Admn · Fri, Jul 20 2012 10:38:20

We're in the single digits! Only 9 to go until our 10,000th follower #transpohaiku party! #transit
— Federal Transit Admn · Fri, Jul 20 2012 12:22:22

And the Magic happened. FTA crossed that 10K mark.. start the party!

Are you guys following @FTA_DOT yet? Cause you should be! #FF #transpohaiku
— Fast Track Forward · Fri, Jul 20 2012 12:05:29

WAHOO!!! It's #TranspoHaiku party time! MT @fta_dot: #FF tweeps helping us hit 10,000!
— Meghan Makoid · Fri, Jul 20 2012 12:06:43

@mamakoid It tickles me pink that we're such a huge inspiration to @fta_dot ;) #transpohaiku
— Fast Track Forward · Fri, Jul 20 2012 12:08:35

Congrats FTA! #Transpohaiku party time! Share a poem now. ---> (5-7-5 syllable poem about transit; use #TranspoHaiku hashtag; cc: @FTA_DOT)
— Meghan Makoid · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:00:52

#Transit riders are/ the best followers to have/ thanks for all the help! #transpohaiku #10000
— Federal Transit Admn · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:09:20

Bus, train or streetcar | Biking, walking or light rail | We love all #transit #transpohaiku
— Federal Transit Admn · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:26:33

Write a 5-7-5 syllable poem about #transit and join our 10,000th follower #transpohaiku party! You might even get a retweet!
— Federal Transit Admn · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:36:59

And the Community responds with a steady flow of awesome #transit haikus

driving alone means #transpohaiku left behind. Read and write on train. (@fta_dot @distractiongov)
— Darren Buck · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:10:21

I love to transit, it save me gas and money, go green and save green @FTA_DOT #transpohaiku
— Johnny Romano · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:21:34

Light rail and buses / My community's future / I plan the transit #transpohaiku
— Meghan Makoid · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:25:57

Bus, train or streetcar | Biking, walking or light rail | We love all #transit #transpohaiku
— Federal Transit Admn · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:26:33

Transit helps you go / in the rain, sun, sleet or snow / ride it every day! #transpohaiku
— Meghan Makoid · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:27:23

Bike-Transit combo: / Reese's Peanut Butter Cup / Of getting around #transpohaiku @FTA_DOT @BikeLeague
— Darren Buck · Fri, Jul 20 2012 13:29:37

#TrainTales – A gripping personal drama live-tweeted from a train

Andy Palanisamy — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 02:44:49 GMT

Here is an example of what people who drive cars often miss out. Those of us who ride transit (trains/buses) often witness interesting happenings and overhear conversations from fellow passengers in public. Seen below is one such episode, but this one has a slight twist – it got live tweeted!

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Thu, Jul 12 2012 19:44:49

Janey Godley, a British stand-up comedian and writer, live-tweeted an argument between a couple (Tim & Freya) on a Virgin train. A loud, uncomfortably personal argument full of fake pregnancy and drama. Does he stay with the girl? You’ll have to read it.

Couple on train before its even moved have fallen out over "her inability to accept the truth" this will be fun #traintales @VirginTrains
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:30:45

She just told him"I can accept the truth you are incapable of speaking it NOW WHO the FUCK is TIA and why did she email you?" #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:33:20

The train hasn't even MOVED yet
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:37:13

He said "Tia isnt working with us anymore she lives in Rome now" she said "lucky fucking her is she a nun then?" and slammed her bag down
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:36:54

He hissed"shut up Freya, we never had anything going on it was when we were staying in Bognor remember?" she says "yes Bognor"
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:39:53

Freya says "you were impotent in Bognor or were you just exhausted fucking Tia" #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:40:15

He (Tim) is staring at floor Freya is eating a sandwhich in a furious chompy manner as if it was his limp cock ( am guessing) #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:43:25

Freya is on her text and Tim is pretending to ignore her. Tim-"who are you sending that piece of shit to?" "ur mum" she said #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:47:09

@VirginTrains brill am tweeting an argument between Freya and Tim sitting near me #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:47:47

Tim just rubbed his eye "stop grooming me Freya" he said. She stared and said "did Tia 'groom' you? ( she did rabbit fingers ) #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:50:09

Tim has gone to loo Freya just called 'Lisa" on mobile "I hate him Lisa he never explains his emails or texts that I find" #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:51:54

Freya is off the phone #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:52:52

I think Freya is a psychotic bitch Tim might have jumped from the train #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:52:23

Tim is back #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:52:40

"now tell me everything about Tia" she hisses and Tim is staring at her I think he is scared #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:54:31

She just PLUCKED out one of his eyebrows out in the middle of a conversation with her fingers! #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:49:01

Tim tried to hold her hand but Freya just grabbed his face and snogged him #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:53:30

Train is moving fine now Freya is gripping Tims hand imploringly #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:55:09

"I love you Tim " says Freya #traintales
— Janey Godley · Fri, Jun 22 2012 06:53:49

Visual Narration of A Dragon's Fiery Plunge From Space

Andy Palanisamy — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 22:54:49 GMT

Private space venture SpaceX successfully launched its space capsule last week and safely brought back the capsule yesterday. Here are a few pictures sourced from the web (primarily via tweets) that tell you the story as the craft arrived on earth...

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Fri, Jun 01 2012 15:54:49

The Dragon seen attached to the Space Station's arm when it arrived..

ISS031-E-080770 · NASA: 2Explore

The Dragon seen leaving the station(?)..

ISS031-E-080785 · NASA: 2Explore

Here is the nervous crew eagerly awaiting the outcome of this usually scary & fiery re-entry process..

Around 1000 SpaceX employees stand behind SpaceX Mission Control waiting for Dragon's return to Earth. http://pic.twitter.com/FnMC6HKm · SpaceX

First sighting (at least for many of us on Twitter) as it arrives safely in the earth atmosphere and the parachutes deploy to slow down the descent.. Everything is working beautifully & as planned.

More #Dragon images #SpaceX: descent on main parachutes http://pic.twitter.com/KaHD91MG · Inara Pey

Touchdown! Dunk! Home Run! Yeah.. Call it whatever.. The craft is back on earth, SAFELY!

RT @SpaceX: Dragon’s main parachutes just after splashdown in the Pacific http://pic.twitter.com/f0MuRp1l · Mark

Another shot of the beauuttttiful touchdown!

#Dragon COTS-2+ Dragon Splashdown #DragonLaunch #SpaceX #ISS #NASA #Spacetweeps http://spaceshuttlealmanac.com http://twitpic.com/9rjswa · SpaceShuttleAlmanac

Bobbing in the water.. .

Akamaihd

SpaceX Dragon Recovery | Facebook · Facebook

First glimpse after the arrival.. looks like everything is in order (at least from a distance)

There's a #Dragon in the water! #SpaceX http://pic.twitter.com/5Go9l8Wq · Inara Pey

A Close-up of the capsule that entered into the annals of space history...

First picture of #Dragon in the ocean as it awaits recovery. http://pic.twitter.com/sEtwNqag · SpaceX

Rescue crew arrive at the scene to recover the object..

WMATA Board Raises Transit Fares; Riders Erupt on Twitter

Andy Palanisamy — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 21:38:50 GMT

Today, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) held its Board Meeting and approved a fare increase across the system. A quick sample of tweets below show how fed up and disgusted the riders' community is by this move.

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Thu, Apr 26 2012 14:38:50

Interestingly, the meeting registered a good number of public participation and many of them were customers of MetroAccess (the paratransit service) who took great pains to arrive in their wheel chairs to voice their opinions to the board. Thanks to the lively tweets by some of the attendees (@FixWmata @hell_on_Wheelz, et al) and the journos (@Kytja and @postmetrogirl) revealed quite a few things that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Shortly after listening to the numerous service complaints from the disabled community represented in the room, WMATA Board moved to the most anticipated item on the agenda - proposed fare increases. After a chaotic debate, the new fare proposal was approved by the Board. A quick lowdown of the approved increases:
1. Metro’s base fare for rail riders would increase from $1.95 to $2.10.
2. The maximum peak fare would increase from $5 to $5.75.
3. The base off-peak rail fare would increase from $1.60 to $1.70. The maximum off-peak fare would be $3.50.
4. Bus fares would increase by a dime, rising to $1.60 for those who use SmarTrip cards.
5. Parking fees would rise by 25 cents.
6. However, the "peak-of-the-peak" fares will be eliminated. It is also reported that a $1 surcharge on paper farecards will also be added.

Washington Post says, "The increases come after six public hearings Metro held in February and March, where riders also expressed frustration about the poor service and delays they often encounter in the transit system. Metro’s board finance committee approved the fare increases two weeks ago. The actual amounts would vary depending on the distance that a rider travels. Metro last put in place a broad fare increase in the summer of 2010."

#WMATA approved the fare hike. Expect to pay more starting July 1: http://tbd.ly/KfiDW7
— TBD On Foot · Thu, Apr 26 2012 10:52:18

ICYMI: Your rail, bus and parking #wmata fares will be going up this summer. http://wj.la/IHwqpJ
— ABC7News · Thu, Apr 26 2012 13:14:48

The reaction was immediate from the riding public who were intently following the live tweets. Shown below are JUST A SAMPLE of what I saw flying out via the #WMATA hashtag. Needless to say, the riders weren't pleased with the fare increases, given the poor quality of service they have experienced in the system off late. For many in the community, the recent derailment near the Rosslyn Station and the associated delays affecting their commutes was vividly etched in their mind and these folks did not hesitate to express themselves. Take a look.

Rot in hell, #WMATA.
— riz. · Thu, Apr 26 2012 10:50:48

People w/ six figure salaries who never ride metro on a daily basis just passed #wmata fare hike for July 1.
— dcmetrosucks · Thu, Apr 26 2012 10:28:41

A #wmata fair hike? It's like a restaurant keeping the same menu but putting in pay toilets. @unsuckdcmetro @FixWMATA
— Bart Breen · Thu, Apr 26 2012 11:04:16

Is it possible to start a class-action lawsuit against #WMATA for taking our money and tax dollars for crappy service? #seriousquestion
— AaronAkins · Thu, Apr 26 2012 13:34:22

@FixWMATA We didn't raise fares on the disabled. We just charge people $7 per wheel, whether they're disabled or not. You're welcome! #WMATA
— Fake Dan Stessel · Thu, Apr 26 2012 13:00:47

"Metro has approved a fare hike that will start July 1." This is sad, mostly bcos metro has been getting worse in the last 3 years. #wmata
— Wale Ariztos · Thu, Apr 26 2012 11:16:52

Xzibit and the #WMATA fare hike/surcharge http://pic.twitter.com/g4geufOt · Donnie Hatcher

Metro increased fares start July 1st smh....good thing I don't depend on using it on a daily basis #wmata
— Lois Lane · Thu, Apr 26 2012 13:33:42

I predict that #WMATA will lose ridership come fall (after tourists leave) and they will continue to have budget gap. More ppl will drive.
— Deborah Brody · Thu, Apr 26 2012 13:27:26

DC Ranks as the 4th Best City For Public Transportation Options (You Gotta Be Kidding Me) http://goo.gl/NdoPH via @carlpierre #WMATA
— InTheCapital · Thu, Apr 26 2012 13:15:55

The worst thing about Metro derailments is that they cause fare hikes. #WMATA
— Bryant Turnage · Thu, Apr 26 2012 13:11:31

#WMATA should adopt this slogan instead of their BS safety one: "Collecting salaries is our number 1 priority."
— MedievalMetro · Mon, Apr 23 2012 10:19:41

Let me remind you that these tweets above are just a sample of what filtered through the #WMATA hashtag. For those of you with a lot of patience and time, recommend checking out the rest of the tweets from this hashtag.

Not sure where Metro is going with this kind of riders sentiment but one thing is clear. The riders are ANGRY at the system's operators and incensed by the crappy level of service provided for the high $$ paid. Shown below is a snapshot of the what's experienced by riders apart from the system's flawed operations/performance (derailments, delays, etc).

RT @summersgill: Winner, today's filth slob award, Metro edition. @wmata http://twitpic.com/9e3q27 Car 1202. · FixWMATA

Every single time I got on a subway car in DC, I looked at the serial number outside. I felt that unsafe riding #wmata.
— Bethany Mandel · Thu, Apr 26 2012 10:49:21

Transportation Bill - Reactions from the Into the Social Web

Andy Palanisamy — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:28:27 GMT

Today the House version of the Transportation Re-authorization bill was unveiled amidst mixed reactions. Here is an attempt to showcase the Social Media reactions/reception for the bill.. By no means this is comprehensive but it gives you a flavor for the ground sentiments..

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Tue, Jan 31 2012 13:28:27

Highlights:

• This proposed legislation will contain no earmarks.

• The previous surface transportation law (SAFETEA-LU) contained over 6,300 earmarks.

Reforming Programs

• Consolidates or eliminates nearly 70 programs by consolidating duplicative programs and eliminating programs that do not serve a Federal purpose.

• Eliminates mandates that States spend highway funding on non-highway activities.

• Provides States greater flexibility to fund their most critical infrastructure needs and priorities.

Streamlining Project Delivery

• Cuts red tape by allowing Federal agencies to review transportation projects concurrently.

• Delegates more project approval authority from Federal agencies to State agencies.

• Eliminates bureaucratic delay by setting and enforcing hard deadlines for decisions on permits and project approvals.

• Accelerates reviews and permits for replacement projects and projects in the existing right-of-way.

Leveraging Resources

• Leverages existing Federal resources and adopts reform policies to incentivize the private sector to invest in transportation infrastructure.

• Expands Federal financing options for major surface projects by expanding the TIFIA programand aids in leveraging Federal funding through State Infrastructure Banks

Politico

Here is House T&I Committee Chair, Rep. John Mica unveiling the bill..

RT @mrjounglee: Chairman Mica unveiling the 5-year $260B House transportation bill #AEIA http://yfrog.com/oeletsxj · Fair Share

RT @KLaingTheHill: House Transportation Chairman Rep. John Mica (@TransportGOP) introduces the GOP highway bill http://twitpic.com/8e2zng · Matt Dixon

House Transportation Chair John Mica rolls out 5 year! $260b infrastructure bill. Largest bill since creation of interstate system.
— Chad Pergram · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:06:14

Reactions from the pro-highway community:

Wired

Video statement: 'AASHTO Executive Dir. John Horsley on the House Transportation Bill' http://aash.to/xdDPf2
— AASHTO · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:11:54

RT @aashtospeaks: Video statement: 'AASHTO Executive Dir. John Horsley on the House Transportation Bill' http://aash.to/xdDPf2
— Albert E. Karoly, PE · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:39:22

House Transportation Bill Sets Excellent Priorities; Reforms & Streamlines Federal Highway Programs, Eliminates ... http://prn.to/yr8kwd
— PRNtrnsp · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:39:56

Trucking assoc: surface transportation bill "a major step forward". Railroad assoc: "will actually accelerate road and bridge damage."
— Justin Lahart · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:32:26

AAA is pleased that progress continues to be made on improving the nation’s transportation system. Today House Transportation & Infrastructure Chairman Mica released his plan. AAA commends Chairman Mica for his leadership in introducing his bill. Take action to let Congress hear from you on the topic by visiting the link below, and clicking Get Involved. Check Mica’s bill at www.transportation.house.gov
— AAA · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:04:14

Reactions from Anti-Highway/Anti-Drilling/Pro-Transit/Pro-Bike/

Inhabitat

Worst. Transportation Bill. Ever. @NRDC explains: http://bit.ly/wO6jec #transpo
— Alex Field · Tue, Jan 31 2012 07:15:03

The House GOP didn't even bother to sugar coat this #SatanSandwich RT @ghanscom Worst. Transportation Bill. Ever. http://bit.ly/ysyjYT
— Alex Wall · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:30:19

Alternative Energy: Technology: Worst. Transportation Bill. Ever.: Filed under: Energy News http://dlvr.it/18MGtF
— Earth Knowledge, Inc · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:12:06

The sky may not be falling but it's certainly getting wobbly RT@StreetsblogDC House Transp. Bill “a March of Horribles” http://dc.streetsblog.org/?p=121378
— Brian A. · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:21:42

Say NO to efforts to drill for oil/gas in the Arctic under the ruse of funding the Transportation Bill http://bit.ly/yjvUkT (via @Defenders)
— 13.7 Billion Years · Tue, Jan 31 2012 12:36:55

WMATA Proposes Fare Increase To Cover Budget Shortfall; Irate Customers Erupt on Twitter

Andy Palanisamy — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 01:51:03 GMT

Metro proposes to increase bus and rail fares, parking costs and MetroAccess rates to overcome a $116 million budget shortfall.

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Tue, Jan 10 2012 17:51:03

Today WMATA proposed fare hikes and immediately came under a torrent of public backlash. Let's first start the story with the proposed Metro fare increases, which are shown below (courtesy of Washington Post).

Metro proposes 5 percent fare increase

Metro proposes to increase bus and rail fares by about 5 percent, raise parking rates and eliminate a controversial rush-hour surcharge t...

The Washington Post

The continued sub-par service and prolonged operational deficiencies on Metro have left the already fuming riders on the system even more irate. And some of them are now venting it out on the social media channels, particularly on Twitter. Here is a sample of the community reaction on Twitter:

Tumblr

Really, #wmata? $4 fee and $6 rush-hour for paper farecard holders? Way to send a big F you to out-of-towners http://wapo.st/wnuA0y
— Rachel Wolf · Tue, Jan 10 2012 09:19:29

I refuse to give DC Metro, any more money to be stranded on trains, ride on leaky buses, or be late to work #wmata
— Brée Crazy · Tue, Jan 10 2012 15:14:25

"They keep increasing the fare, but they're not increasing the service." #wmata
— Brian · Tue, Jan 10 2012 09:20:33

RT @embraceurcrazy If government employees are being furloughed and are suffering pay freezes so should #wmata
— SEQueen · Tue, Jan 10 2012 15:31:33

Obviously #wmata your management team has not properly managed and budgeted effectively nor efficiently over the past decade or 2. Fire'm!
— Slim Rico · Tue, Jan 10 2012 15:11:20

10 minute wait at 6pm for next train at Farragut north the day metro wants to raise fares...r u kidding me #WMATA #metroclosesdoors
— Ed Jones · Tue, Jan 10 2012 15:06:07

Dicky Sarles "let them eat cake" attitude towards riders concerns re fare hikes is arrogant. Riders will revolt Dicky! #wmata @wmata
— dcmetrosucks · Tue, Jan 10 2012 11:28:33

Every time #wmata announces the possibility of a fare increase, service nosedives. Srsly. Today's commute is taking FOREVER.
— Chris Pulaski · Tue, Jan 10 2012 07:24:07

RT @postlocal: #Metro fare hike proposal infuriates riders already frustrated by service http://wapo.st/yDwzkO #wmata
— Miss D. · Tue, Jan 10 2012 12:53:01

SIX DOLLARS FOR RUSH HOUR? I'm moving. // RT @washingtonpost Metro proposes fare increase: http://wapo.st/zP7c5F #WMATA
— Mary El · Tue, Jan 10 2012 06:54:48

#WMATA wants to charge passengers more for increasingly worse and erratic service - http://ow.ly/8oeYY
— Scott Nolan Smith · Tue, Jan 10 2012 06:43:41

#wmata is synonymous w/FARE HIKE! so over it! this makes driving more attractive Metro proposes 5 percent fare increase http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/commuting/metro-proposes-5-percent-fare-increase/2012/01/06/gIQACLoumP_story.html?tid=sm_btn_tw
— sesocialite · Tue, Jan 10 2012 07:53:55

#wmata's actions have reached way beyond the point of absurdity. RT @washingtonpost: Metro proposes fare increase: http://wapo.st/zP7c5F
— Rudi Greenberg · Tue, Jan 10 2012 06:45:33

Looks like WMATA is not getting any love from the angry commuters anytime soon.. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the days ahead. The terrible thing that can happen due to this proposal is that some of the riders, esp. the ones living in the suburbs, might just give up on Metro for this high-cost+poor service mess and opt to drive, which will significantly impact the already exploding traffic in the DMV region. Every car we keep off the road will go a long way in alleviating the congestion and other allied traffic ailments at the regional level. On the other hand, this mess could also offer a jump in the biking (an uptick in the bikeshare?).

In any case, WMATA has a huge image/perception makeover issue on its hands and it would be wise to address some of these issues before coming out with such proposed increases.. Yeah, we know you are cash strapped and also working hard to improve the service but it has not really showed up when we swiped the card at the fare gates and walked in to the platform expecting a decent service(if not great). Hope that is not too much to ask from WMATA. Should you feel compelled, you can definitely express yourself in the poll conducted by the local TV station ABC7.

Surface Transportation Bill vs. "In God We Trust " - American politicians and their priorities

Andy Palanisamy — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:10:51 GMT

A glance at Washington's political priorities - they get hazy as the nation's infrastructure is crumbling...

Storified by Andy Palanisamy · Tue, Jan 10 2012 15:10:51

This posted was created on my Storify back in Nov 2011 but did not make it to my website. So, here I'm making it available for my readers. Hope you like it.

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Yesterday (Nov 2, 2011), the nation's political establishment (i.e., the members of the House) decided that it is high time the national priorities be rearranged and everyone be reminded that our national motto is "In God We Trust" and not "E Pluribus Unum".

In God We Trust. In Congress, not so much

But God says that won't happen again, and In God We Trust. God once destroyed the Egyptian economy by making the place dark and givin...

Money House GOP spent today on creating jobs: $0. Money GOP spent on reaffirming "In God We Trust": $215,000. We are governed by children.
— Wil Wheaton · Wed, Nov 02 2011 14:35:35

This comes at a time when the nation is reeling from one of the worst political/economic times it has endured, EVER. Our economy is grinding itself to a halt; folks are battling for jobs; protests are raging from coast to coast; and those who are lucky to have a job are pondering how to manage the looming financial uncertainty that is only growing larger by the day. The past couple of years (since 2008) has been tumultuous, to put it lightly, and we have endured crisis after crisis, erupting in every part of the globe (Euro-Zone crisis triggered by the Greeks, volatile trade relationships, wars in two continents, etc). Amidst all this, the congress still decided that it is time for reaffirming our faith in god.

In addition, we have an aging infrastructure that needs to be urgently repaired/upgraded and the funding vehicle get this issue addressed - the surface transportation bill - is yet to see the light of day in Washington. It has been over two years - 763 days, 19 hrs, 27 mins, to be precise - since the last transportation bill (SAFETEA-LU expired on Sept 30, 2009; ). And we all know that putting folks to build our roads, bridges and railways is one good way to address the infrastructure crisis as well as the unemployment crisis. But hey, that's what a rational thinker would do, right? The congress leadership does not seem to be in a hurry at this juncture to get anything done to improve our transportation infrastructure.

Time's Up: Get moving on a transformational bill!

The clock is ticking. Is Congress on it? Every six years, Congress sets the country's transportation and infrastructure priorities - fund...

What's even even worse is the state of a similar funding bill for FAA. According to TheHill.com, the House's version of the long-term authorization bill, which would be the first for the FAA since 2004, would provide the agency with $59 billion over the next four years. The agency has been operating on a series of 22 short-term extensions of that last authorization since it expired in 2007.

Nytimes-se

BlogSpot

House reaffirms 'In God We Trust' as national motto http://t.co/r8Xei2Xc
— Daniel Wagner · Wed, Nov 02 2011 17:07:07

And guess what? It is not like this is the first time it happened. “In God We Trust” had already been reaffirmed once before as the national motto, by another act of Congress in 2002. The President must be one hell of an angry man at this stage watching what's happening in the House.

Like any responsible citizen who has a stake in the future of this country, the President got pretty upset watching elected representatives dedicate their time to discuss an issue that is not definitely at the top of the priority list (at least not for the majority in this country at this time in history). After all, he has been pressing the Congress to pass his Job's bill (or at least elements of the proposed bill) for months so that the unemployed can get a chance to put food on their plates. And still there is no progress on that front despite his gazillion calls/pleas for action .

Obama calls on Congress to approve highway funding bill - 44 - The ...

Aug 31, 2011... impasse shut down parts of the nation's airline transportation system. ... to approve a funding extension to the Su...

Obama Says Deteriorating Infrastructure Costly to U.S. Economy

He also announced plans to speed up grants and funding for surface transportation projects. Aging infrastructure costs businesses and fam...

So, like any red blooded individual he got hot under his collar and let it rip. As seen in the video below (via Huffington Post), he went after the House leadership. This afternoon, in a speech from beneath the D.C. area's Key Bridge, Obama told spectators that Congress had time to bring up votes on aspects of the American Jobs Act, but were instead dealing with more frivolous legislation.

"And if Congress tell you they don't have time, they've got time to do it," Obama said.

"In the House of Representatives, what have you guys been doing, John?" Obama continued, calling out Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-Ohio). "You've been debating a commemorative coin for baseball. You've had legislation reaffirming that 'In God We Trust' is our motto. That's not putting people back to work. I trust in God, but God wants to see us help ourselves by putting people back to work."

Obama Jabs Congress For 'In God We Trust' Vote

Obama Jabs Congress For 'In God We Trust' Vote · AolNewsNow

Obama rips 'In God we trust' vote

President Obama on Wednesday mocked a vote Tuesday evening in the House of Representatives to reaffirm "In God we trust" as the...

Obama: 'In God We Trust' Vote Not Creating Jobs

by Kimberly Schwandt | November 02, 2011 The House vote to reaffirm that "In God We Trust" is the US motto is "not putting...

Obama: In Jobs Bills We Trust

He's very upset that the House of Representatives just wasted its time reaffirming the national motto of “In God We Trust,” which Oba...

This political move may be well received in the Bible belt, but the rest of the country is not reacting nicely to this style of politicking. If you don't believe me, here is a sample of how the citizenry is reacting (on Twitter) to this style of law-making at Capitol Hill.

I've never been more proud of POTUS than today. GOP is more interested on "In God we trust" than jobs. #tcot #dumberthandirt #gop
— JilNelson · Wed, Nov 02 2011 17:37:42