Igor Studenkov
Recent Posts
Metra schedule pilots to bring biggest service increases to wealthier suburbs
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When Metra recently announced schedule changes for several lines, they billed it as offering more off-peak options. But the reality was a bit more complicated than that.
A bittersweet look back at 12 months of free Metra Union Pacific line rides
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Union Pacific's refusal to collect fares during COVID cost Metra some $1M a month, but it opened up new options for affordable – or free – transit exploration.
Goodbye street-running South Shore service in Michigan City, hello double-tracking
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Earlier this month, 11th Street station was closed to allow for converting the line into two tracks on separate rights of way.
Metra unveils 2021 construction projects, Peterson/Ridge station delayed
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Metra announced a number of major construction projects for the 2021 construction season – but already, one of those construction projects has been pushed back a few months.
How will new Chicagoland stimulus transit cash be spent? We won’t know until fall
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When it comes to transit funding from the most recent federal COVID-19 stimulus package, the common sentiment from transit agencies in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana can be summed up as “wait and see.”
Could new Metra service to Kendall County enable a fantastical journey to Oswego?
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Now that we have cost estimates for extending the BNSF line to Kendall County, why should officials say no to Plano?
Active Transportation Alliance, transit officials discuss suburban transportation challenges
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The shortcomings of Chicago area public transit are self-evident to any suburban transit rider who has ever tried to get anywhere but the Loop.
What kind of infrastructure upgrades are needed for post-pandemic recovery?
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Chicago business leaders and MPC agree that transit is key to post-pandemic economic revival, while also urging investment in freight rail, shipping facilities, roads, and bridges.
Metra, Loop building managers join forces to promote safe return to in-person work
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"There’s no collaborative tool that can replace in-person networking," Metra CEO Jim Derwinski insisted. "You can’t build a company culture on a video call.”
CTA, peer transit agencies urge Biden administration to end local hiring ban
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Reagan-era legislation prohibits transit agencies from favoring local firms and workers for infrastructure projects. Lifting the ban could provide new opportunities.
How COVID-19 impacted has Chicagoland public transportation workers
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During the COVID-19 pandemic, at least 1,874 Chicago area transit workers tested positive for the disease, at least 14 had to be hospitalized and at least 14 passed away.
Metra looks back at 2020 ridership, ticket sales as it plans for the future
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Essential workers, transit-dependent residents, and bicyclists have made up a higher percentage of riders during the pandemic.