The Politics Hour: What's in the revised RFK stadium deal; plus, Metro GM Randy Clarke on the bus overhaul

The Politics Hour with Kojo Nnamdi

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On Thursday, D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson announced a revised deal with the Washington Commanders for a new stadium at RFK, which he says gives the city a better deal. Is the deal good enough for the council to approve it when they vote August 1? We dove into the details with Ward 5 D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker.

The changes call for redirecting parking fees and sales tax revenue to the city. It also includes money for transportation improvements and to help nearby neighborhoods. It could amount to an additional $700 million in revenue for the District. But Parker said he’d like to see more benefits for the city in a final deal.

"Members still have issues and priorities that we are pressing on," he said. "Making sure that there is adequate language and accountability for transportation investments and environmental protections."

The council is set for a first vote on the stadium deal next Friday, with a final vote planned for September. Plus, we previewed with Parker the D.C. Council budget vote next week.

Metro recently overhauled its bus system for the first time in 50 years. The changes, including renaming all routes and eliminating hundreds of stops, have led to some rider confusion and frustration. Metro General Manager Randy Clarke explained why the changes were needed and how the revamp is meeting its goals, despite a few hiccups.

"From a community point of view, more people get better service, more reliable, more frequent service, and it was done through an equity lens specifically around low-income individuals and people trying to get them to places like jobs and the doctor and things of that nature," said Clarke.

Clarke said Metro is listening to rider feedback and will continue to make tweaks to the system. Additionally, he discussed how Metro plans to fund its future.

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