Blog

Chicago’s first transit riders union launches on Transit Equity Day

Jan 31, 2022 | by Julia Gerasimenko

As decisions are being made about the future of Chicago’s transit system and how it serves our communities, people who ride transit deserve a seat at the table.

To ensure that riders’ voices are elevated in this conversation, Active Trans is working with a coalition to launch a transit riders union on Transit Equity Day, February 4.

Join Active Transportation Alliance, transit labor groups (Local ATU 241 and 308), SMART IL Transportation Division,

Shoveling sidewalks is key to walking safely in winter

Dec 27, 2021 | by Active Trans

Winter in Chicagoland means clearing those sidewalks of snow so that pedestrians have safe walkways to traverse during the winter.

Shoveling sidewalks is not only the neighborly thing to do, but it’s also the law in some places, including Chicago.

According to the Municipal Code of Chicago, property owners must clear the sidewalks next to their properties.

They must create a 5-foot-wide path free of any snow on their sidewalks,

Winter biking tips to keep you pedaling in the cold and snow

Dec 23, 2021 | by Active Trans

Braving the Chicago winter on a bicycle may seem like a daunting prospect. But there’s no need to hang up your bike when the cold weather arrives.

With proper preparation, some extra gear, and the right attitude, you can navigate the city’s streets on two wheels like a seasoned winter rider.

Here are some tips and tricks for a safe, enjoyable winter biking experience.

Many cyclists often wonder what clothing to wear when biking in the winter.

Top 10 walking, biking, and transit stories of 2021

Dec 16, 2021 | by Kyle Whitehead

In year two of the coronavirus pandemic, Chicago area residents continued to adapt to a changing world and adjusted their transportation habits and expectations for this new reality.

Through it all, the Active Transportation Alliance worked with our community partners and legislative allies to fight for more residents to have access to safe, convenient, affordable, and sustainable transportation options.

Here’s a look back at 10 of the most important walking, biking,

New law paves the way for more walking and cycling infrastructure

Dec 14, 2021 | by Maya Norris

Earlier this year, Illinois State Rep. Bob Morgan helped usher in new legislation that will allow more communities to build walking and biking infrastructure in the Chicago region.

The bill that Rep. Morgan co-sponsored — HB 2950 — allows the state and collar counties to spend gas tax funds on walking and bicycling infrastructure like sidewalks and bike lanes. Before this bill, gas tax revenue only went toward new roads.

Active Trans honors extraordinary advocates

Dec 8, 2021 | by Maya Norris

The rock star advocates that the Active Transportation Alliance works with took center stage at the organization’s recent 2021 Annual Meeting.

Active Trans celebrated their dedication and outstanding work, and the role they play in helping the nonprofit carry out its mission to improve walking, bicycling, and public transportation in the Chicago region.

Rochelle Jackson was honored with an Advocate of the Year award for her efforts to improve walkability and bus service in North Lawndale,

Longtime volunteer clocks in 18 years of service and counting

Dec 7, 2021 | by Maya Norris

To say Kevin Crowley is dedicated to the Active Transportation Alliance is an understatement.

Crowley, 33, has been volunteering for Active Trans for 18 years — more than half of his life. In that time, he has gradually taken on more responsibilities, playing an active and influential role in Active Trans’ events.

In recognition of his longtime commitment and support to the nonprofit, Crowley is the recipient of Active Trans’ 2021 Volunteer of the Year Award.

Chicago must advance equity and sustainability with new federal transportation funds

Nov 22, 2021 | by Kyle Whitehead

The Infrastructure Investment in Jobs Act (IIJA) provides a historic opportunity for the Chicago area to move beyond car-centric planning and advance racial and environmental justice through transportation investments. 

Now we need to make sure regional leaders take advantage of this opportunity. We can’t afford to see these funds go to wasteful roadway projects that only worsen the inequity in our regional transportation system. 

This week Active Trans joined a coalition of 12 civic and environmental advocates that is calling for our transportation agencies in the region to develop an inclusive and transparent approach in determining which projects to put forward for newly available federal funds.

Join a virtual town hall on CTA bus electrification

Nov 15, 2021 | by Kyle Whitehead

47th Ward Ald. Matt Martin and 1st Ward Ald. Daniel LaSpata are teaming to host a virtual discussion on Chicago’s progress toward electrifying its bus fleet.

The event, which is open to the public, takes place on Wednesday, November 17 at 7 p.m.

Staff from Chicago Transit Authority will provide an update on the agency’s electrification plans and answer questions from the council members and attendees.

In 2019, the Chicago City Council approved a resolution to support transitioning CTA’s bus fleet to 100 percent electric by 2040.

Take action! Build Back Better Act needed to fix flaws in infrastructure bill 

Nov 15, 2021 | by Kyle Whitehead

Congress passed a historic infrastructure bill that could help get more people walking, biking, and riding transit in the Chicago area, but more action is needed to strengthen the bill’s positive impact on climate- and equity-related concerns. 

Take action asking your members of Congress to support a pro-transit reconciliation bill. 

For more than two years, Active Trans worked with our partners in communities across the region making the case for a sustainable and equitable federal infrastructure bill.