🚲 How to sign up for DC e-bike rebates

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Bowser Signs Crime Bill Into Law

During the signing of the Secure DC crime bill on Monday, Mayor Muriel Bowser reported that statistically, D.C. is already getting safer in 2024. Overall crime is down 13%, she said, with homicides decreasing 33%. Despite unanimous Council approval, Secure DC is very controversial, with critics saying its amendments give police too much power. [WTOP, City Cast DC 🎧]

VA Fires Up Recreational Marijuana Plan

Virginia lawmakers are working on legislation to launch a recreational cannabis marketplace by May 2025. The plan would allow people over 21 to possess up to 2.5 ounces of weed and allow 350 retail stores in the state. While it doesn’t look like the proposal will go through anytime soon, it’s the first blueprint of what marijuana sales will look like in VA.

[Axios]

• Related: Some believe VA Sen. L. Louise Lucas (D) was trying to leverage this marijuana sales issue when she effectively killed the Monumental sports arena deal last week. [City Cast DC 🎧]

E-Bike Rebate is Here

Applications for D.C. government’s e-bike rebate open April 1! Residents can get up to $2,000 back on their purchase from participating shops in the city. The process will prioritize applicants in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. [X, formerly Twitter, City Cast DC 🎧]

Food & Drink: March's Best New Restaurants

This month is all about welcoming perfectly executed staples to D.C.’s restaurant scene. The perfect smash burger, fresh neighborhood italian food, and juicy fried chicken, coming up.

Cucina Morini (Capitol Hill)

Matt Adler from Caruso’s Grocery is teaming up with the Osteria Morini team to open this casual Sicilian restaurant with $7 martinis, handmade pastas, and mortadella meatballs.

Bar Del Monte (Mt. Pleasant)

The owners of 2 Amys just opened a neighborhood Italian joint with a focus on small plates and notably, no tipping. The menu will emphasize seasonal veggies along with low-key meats like anchovies and little sausages. So, basically my ideal restaurant.

Palette 22 (Union Market)

This global fusion restaurant is working with over 30 local artists to create a gallery-like atmosphere where diners can view and purchase artwork. Shareable dishes include shiso wrapped chicken, Turkish flatbreads, and seasonal sangria.

Joia Burger (Mt. Pleasant)

The chef behind Purple Patch, Patrice Cleary, opened this burger joint just up the street last week. The menu is limited to wagyu burgers, fries, and ube ice cream, and quite frankly that’s all we need.

Reverie (Georgetown)

After going dark almost a year ago due to fire damage, Georgetown’s beloved tasting room from Chef Johnny Spero has risen from the ashes. The completely renovated restaurant is opening March 26 with a new 12-to-16-course tasting menu with Nordic, Japanese, and Maryland influences.

Little Chicken (The Wharf)

I stumbled upon this while looking for a “cheap” eat at The Wharf and it’s quickly become one of my favorite fried chicken spots in D.C. Juicy chicken sandwiches hand-breaded to order, wings, and battered curly fries. Don’t skip the double-layered soft serve.

PLANTA Cocina (Logan Circle)

This completely plant-based restaurant is finally open on P Street with items like watermelon nigiri, “crab” tostadas, and bang bang broccoli.

Plus, more restaurant openings!

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Why You Should Explore 16th Street Heights

Big changes are coming to 16th Street Heights. Businesses are pushing to revitalize 14th Street NW and bring more commercial and residential development. City Cast contributor Austin Graff is here to tell us all the neighborhood's vibrant spots you can’t miss.