Riverdale Park's Top 10 Stories of 2012

The Riverdale Park area saw its share of big news in 2012. Now, with 2013 shining brightly in front of us, let's look back at some of Riverdale Park and University Park's biggest stories of the year. The following list shows the top 10 most-read local stories of 2012.

10 - New Purple Line Alignment a Relief to Many

Six businesses along Kenilworth Avenue will be spared under the plan, which would route trains down the middle of the road.

9 - Live Coverage: District Council Approves Cafritz Plan

By a 7-2 vote, the controversial mixed-use rezoning proposal cleared its final major legislative hurdle on July 9.

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Some residents were concerned when Cafritz property developers began conducting soil borings prior to the District Council's approval of the plan. 

7 - Trolley Trail Set to Begin Construction in Summer

Maryland National Capital Area Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) was set to begin construction to convert the old trolley line into a modern hiker-biker trail that will eventually connect with trails in Hyattsville and College Park

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Back in June, tow truck was trying to pull a car off the tracks near Queensbury Road in Riverdale Park when a freight train struck both vehicles.

5 - Victim of Fatal Riverdale Shooting Identified

In February 2012, Devon Mansa Gilkes, 19, was gunned down at his home in the 6400 block of 61st Pl.

4 - Riverdale Man Arrested on Warrant for 1981 Murder

Jesus Blas-Perea, 53, was taken into custody in April in connection with a slaying in Houston.

3 - Girl Fatally Struck by CSX Train in Riverdale Park

In May of 2012, 17-year-old Mary Gaffney of Bowie was walking along the tracks north of the Queensbury Road crossing when she was hit.

2 - 

After 15 hours of testimony and discussion, board members voted to back the hotly debated plan, sending it on to the District Council for approval.

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Three of the firefighters were injured seriously and required days and weeks long hospitalizations.

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