D.C., Md., Va. leaders seek 'green' local economy

Leaders in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia are pledging to work together to build a more environmentally friendly and competitive economy.

D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty joined Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, Virginia Governor Tim Kaine, and U.S. House members form the region at the U.S. Capitol to announce the Chesapeake Crescent Initiative.

The Chesapeake Crescent runs along the Interstate-95 corridor from the northeast corner of Maryland to Hampton Roads, Virginia.

The initiative will be funded with $1.5 million from a group of entrepreneurs, $250,000 each from Maryland and Virginia, and $100,000 from the district.

One its main goals is to promote the use of plug-in hybrid vehicles, which are expected to be commercially available in two years. Officials hope to work with federal and local authorities to make outlets for the vehicles available at federal buildings, shopping centers and other sites.

Information from: The Washington Post, http://www.washingtonpost.com