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“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
“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
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
New RTA Report recommends income-based fare programs
The major challenge facing this proposal is that Chicagoland is currently facing a $730M transit fiscal cliff, but advocates say there are potential options to make it happen.
July 27, 2024
We are all in the underperforming Chicagoland transit network. But some of us are looking at the Star:Line.
According to Star:Line Chicago, "The 2034sight Plan is an ambitious — and achievable — ten-year framework to lay the groundwork to modernize Chicagoland’s existing local passenger rail system."
July 19, 2024
At 2nd People’s Lobby Transit Town Hall, politicians and riders discussed how to create a world-class system
Attendees talked about how to make buses and trains more reliable, improve conditions for CTA workers, and address the region's looming transit fiscal cliff.
June 4, 2024
New Elevated Chicago / DePaul studies look at how vacant lots near transit impact quality of life on the South and West sides
The reports also finds that redevelopment of this land is more likely to bring about positive change when community members are heavily involved.
March 12, 2024
At Chicago Mobility Collaborative meeting in Belmont Cragin, CDOT says 2023 has been a big year for walk/bike/transit
"2023 has been a really incredible year in Chicago when it comes to complete streets and safe streets infrastructure," said David Smith, Complete Streets director.
September 15, 2023
Rail Problem: House GOP Wants to Undermine Trains Exactly When We Need Them Most
The future of interstate rail travel is in jeopardy if the White House caves to House Republican spending cuts as part of the ongoing debt ceiling negotiations, advocates say.
May 25, 2023
Opinion: Feds Must Give Transit the Support (And Flexibility) It Needs Right Now
Budget shortfalls coupled with inflation and rising transit operating costs, threaten to cause the “transit death spiral.” We must not let that happen.
May 23, 2023
