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Universal Metra bicycle access via dedicated bike cars would be a game-changer
Bike cars on all trains on all lines during non-pandemic times would enable people to use bikes for first- and last-mile trips for downtown commutes.
November 6, 2020
Free mask dispensers on the CTA? Lightfoot: “We’ve done a tremendous amount already”
The mayor seems to be taking an "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" attitude. But feedback from straphangers suggests there's still room for improvement when it comes to mask compliance.
November 5, 2020
Lightfoot says her new infrastructure spending plan will focus on equity
Lightfoot is finalizing a multi-billion dollar capital spending plan that will reportedly help aldermen stretch their $1.32 million discretionary "menu" funds and create jobs for residents.
November 4, 2020
Advocates blast mayor’s refusal to rule out a CTA shutdown if there’s election unrest
"I'm not going to hesitate" to shut down transit and Divvy again in the event of civil unrest Lightfoot told Streetsblog this morning.
October 30, 2020
What’s going on with the South Cook Fair Transit pilot?
Reduced Metra Electric and Rock Island fares and increased service are set to launch in January, but Lightfoot and the CTA are still not completely on board with the plan.
October 28, 2020
New Ventra Card on iPhone and Apple Watch lets you pay by simply tapping your device
Today the CTA and Pace announced a convenient contactless way to use the Ventra card system, launching the Ventra Card on iPhone and Apple Watch fare payment option.
October 26, 2020
CTA’s proposed 2021 includes no service cuts or fare hikes — for now
The 2021 budget will retain current fares and service levels. However, the budget is predicated on desired federal funds to make up for a $375 million COVID-related shortfall.
October 22, 2020
Always use protection: PPE vending machines are coming to Chicago ‘L’ stations
While the initiative can't hurt, it won't be helpful for people who lack masks -- which are for sale just about everywhere nowadays -- because they can't afford to buy them.
October 21, 2020
Sign of the Times: Chicago-Minneapolis Amtrak service is expanding to twice daily
The plan for a second daily Amtrak Empire Builder Line run between Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul is moving forward thanks to the award of a $31.8 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration.
October 19, 2020
Chicago Loop Alliance: More residents are using private cars to commute downtown
A report released yesterday by the CLA found a disproportionate spike in downtown parking rates recently as compared with pedestrian traffic and business activity.
October 14, 2020
