Today’s Headlines for Wednesday, February 25
• Steven Lucy: Ald. Hopkins' bikeway vote be based less on worries about getting an angry call from businesses but from bereaved parents. (Sun-Times)
February 25, 2026
“Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA” part four: Our latest work, “Interview with the Smoker”
Here's the fourth installment of our series "Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA." This is our campaign for "carrot" rather than "stick" strategies (not simply more policing) to reduce smoking and vaping in 'L' cars. Take a look at part one for an intro to my thoughts on this subject and the approach I'm taking. But to recap, it can be dangerous for people with disabilities, senior citizens, and young kids to inhale smoke in enclosed spaces, and it's unhealthy and aggravating for the rest of us. And ultimately, smoking on trains can make trips feel unsafe and unpleasant, causing people to avoid transit.
February 24, 2026
Today’s Headlines for Tuesday, February 24
• "How CTA, CPD are working together to improve safety after feds threatened funding" (ABC)
February 24, 2026
“Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA” part three: We like smoked hot dogs, not ‘L’ cars – an exercise in guerrilla urbanism
This is the third episode of our series "Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA." It's an attempt to to find holistic solutions (not just additional enforcement) to the frustrating issue of smoking and vaping within 'L' carriages. Check out part one to get a sense of where I'm coming from on this topic. Many of us know that smoking in enclosed spaces is a big problem for those with lung conditions, elderly folks, and young children. And second-hand smoke is harmful and irritating to others as well, and it discourages people from riding public transportation.
February 23, 2026
Today’s Headlines for Monday, February 23
• Crain's publishes 5 different op-eds by movers and shakers involved with Illinois's transit makeover
February 23, 2026
Today’s Headlines for Friday, February 20
• "Pace Unveils March 2026 Service Upgrades to Boost Regional Mobility"
February 20, 2026
Which alders voted against the ordinance to allow citizens to report bike and bus lane blockage by commercial vehicle drivers?
This post includes reporting by a contributing writer.
February 19, 2026
Archer NIMBY Claudia Zuno, an ally of Trump apologists Urban Center and Ald. Lopez, is running for alder, with a plan to “Remove obstructive bike lanes”
Plus a walk down Archer is a reminder that utility line construction is a major factor in the traffic congestion that Safe Street opponents are solely blaming on bike lanes.
February 17, 2026
Today’s Headlines for Tuesday, February 17
• Man fatally struck by Metra BNSF train today around 7 AM near Westmont Station (Daily Herald)
February 17, 2026
Today’s Headlines for Monday, February 16
• Sedan driver, 33, ran a red and hit CTA bus, which hit a building, injuring baby Saturday around 9:19 PM at Washington/Damen on Near United Center (ABC)
February 16, 2026