Rail Transit
Anything but a train: Lightfoot touts luxury air taxi service instead of fixing Blue Line
Chicago politicians are generally more interested in using the latest (or nonexistent) technology as an alternative to a mobility solution that's been around for decades in other countries: fast trains.
March 25, 2023
It’s getting real: Biden budget proposal earmarks $350M for $3.6B south Red Line extension
Yesterday the administration began to make good on its promise to help fund the RLE including a request for $350 million in Biden’s fiscal year 2024 discretionary funding request.
March 10, 2023
Here’s the colorful story of how CTA ‘L’ lines got their hues
While it seems like the CTA's lines have been designated with colors forever, it's actually only been that way for a few decades.
March 2, 2023
Safe Streets for All coalition pushes for “transit that works,” hopes to influence elections
In response to last summer's traffic violence epidemic, advocates formed the Safe Streets for All Coalition, amplifying the call for improved safety, transportation equity, affordable housing, and climate action.
January 10, 2023
The Polar (Vortex) Express: Riding Amtrak during last week’s storm disruptions
While Chicago polar vortex-related flight cancellations have been covered extensively on the news, Amtrak hasn’t gotten nearly as much attention.
December 28, 2022
Chicago’s climate superpower: How TOD can help address global warming
As shown in this map, Chicago’s land use policies have a major impact on our greenhouse gas emissions.
November 29, 2022
High Speed Rail Alliance wants better train service in Chicago and across the nation
“The system would be useful for so many more people,” said executive director Rick Harnish. “It really would be a game-changer for Chicago-area transit.”
October 27, 2022
Activists block the development of a parking lot. Is that the best way to stop displacement?
While blocking this development would probably do more harm than good, Chicago absolutely needs to do more to fight displacement.
August 26, 2022
Advocates: Cutting High Speed Rail Out of Climate Bill Was a Mistake
The Democrats' decision to axe high speed rail from the climate bill has some advocates wondering what it will take for lawmakers to finally understand the environmentally transformative potential of the mode.
August 3, 2022
A report from abroad: Barcelona transforms transportation—What it means for Chicago
"I believe Barcelona’s transformation would similarly change and improve Chicago in many instances, and I recommend that all those who are responsible for Chicago’s future transit come see and experience this promising example for themselves."
July 14, 2022