Recent changes to the traffic pattern near the American University shuttle stop at the Tenley Town Metro Station have increased city revenue while aggrevating drivers.
The changes, notably opposing 'one way' signs, are part of Mayor Anthony Williams' controversial "More Money, Less Cars" initiative.
Under the initiative, roughly one thousand city streets are flanked by opposing 'One Way' signs, leaving drivers will little room to maneuver. Other components of the initiative include traffic lights that never turn green, handicapped-only curbside parking throughout the city, and special $25 toll for Minnesotan drivers to enter the District.
So far the mayor's program has raised $7 million in revenue for the city. In a phone interview, Williams told The Eagle, "This initiative is vital for securing funds for the city, reducing congestion and the emission of greenhouse gases, and to keep Minnesotans out of DC." The key to the mayor's plan is the stationing of Metropolitan Police officers at key intersections to ensure prompt and thorough issuing of tickets. Some critics worry that the redistribution of police officers threatens their ability to do other, more necessary functions.
Not everyone is enthused with the mayor's program.
"This is bullshit!" said Sister Mary McAllistair, life-long area resident and nun at St. Ann's. "I cannot move my 1976 Chrysler station wagon because I'm not sure which direction to drive. Yet I can't leave my car where it is because I've received four tickets and the car's been booted for being parked in a handicapped spot."
McAllistair's troubles are compounded by the lack of help from the Metropolitan Police, who wait "like vultures" for a new opportunity to fine the 82-year-old.
Tourism in the city has suffered from the recent changes. Americans and foreigners alike are finding travel within the city a nightmare.
Matthew Davidson of Carson City, Nev., and his family of five's minivan collided with a Domino's Pizza delivery driver. No serious injuries were sustained, save a broken leg suffered by the family beagle Baxter. The Domino's Driver's Honda CRX was totaled.
After a brief overnight in Georgetown University Hospital, Baxter was transported to Sibley Hospital where doctors specially trained in handling canines and drunken college students monitored him.
Tourists from Minnesota, however, remain resilient despite attempts to discourage their presence.
"They're a lot tougher than we thought," Williams said. "But don't worry, once Phase Two begins we won't be seeing their kind around here any more." In addition, drivers with diplomatic license plates continue to violate traffic laws with reckless abandon.
