Promoted
Top Categories
“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
“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
After 3 recent pedestrian crashes, one fatal, CDOT must act now to save lives on Inner Lake Shore Drive
By Kalen Luciano
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
“Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA,” part two: A sociology student, a lung health advocate, and a transportation expert share their POVs
Welcome to the second installment of "Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA," our unconventional effort to find holistic solutions (not just more policing) to the vexing problem of smoking inside 'L' cars. Read part one to get up to speed on my perspective and approach to this topic. As many people are aware, burning tobacco or cannabis, or vaping, in an enclosed space is a serious danger for people with respiratory issues, seniors, and young kids. For the rest of us, it's also unhealthy, and a major annoyance and deterrent to using transit.
February 13, 2026
Making Chicago a safer, more pleasant place to get around is no joke. “Safe Streets: The Comedy Show” creators discuss their goals.
Ever feel like Chicago traffic is out to drive you completely crazy? It can feel as though, no matter how you get around, even the most zen of travelers will be tested on our streets and sidewalks. You may wonder how it got this bad, and is anyone even trying to make anything better? Sometimes, you just have to laugh about it.
February 12, 2026
Introducing “Streetsblog Chicago versus smoking on the CTA.” In part one of our series, editors from other cities and our transit agency weigh in.
"Now, [Streetsblog] don't you fill me up with your rules'Cause everybody knows that smokin' ain't allowed [on the 'L']"
February 11, 2026
It’s a shame about Ray: Ald. Raymond Lopez parachutes into committee meeting to rant against Archer project, Complete Streets in general
By Austin Busch
February 10, 2026
Works at the 28th Annual Bike Winter Art Show address national and local political issues
All photos in this piece are by John Greenfield.
February 9, 2026
