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Keep up with the latest news
on Active Trans and topics that
we care about in the region.

Want to learn how to become a better advocate for sustainable transportation?

By Maggie Melin Czerwinski | December 13, 2023

Want to get more involved in making our region a better place to walk, roll, bike, and take transit?   If you’re interested in learning about tangible ways to make a positive difference in your community and across our region, become a Street Team Advocate! Join one of our two-hour trainings this winter to build your advocacy skills and get up […]

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The community drive behind the East Branch DuPage River Trail

By Maya Norris | December 6, 2023

In central DuPage County, a vision took root in the 1980s for a 28-mile regional trail meant to link communities and allow access to the natural environment west of I-355. But progress on the trail was sluggish for many years. Then trail development kicked into a higher gear when a group formed that was dedicated to completing the trail. This […]

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Celebrating progress at the annual member party

By Ted Villaire | December 1, 2023

The Active Transportation Alliance’s annual member party isn’t just a gathering; it’s a celebration of our community and our accomplishments, allowing us a moment to pause and renew our dedication to transforming Chicagoland into a hub for sustainable transportation. This year’s event brought more than 100 individuals to the Revolution Brewing Taproom eager to laud the year’s victories, forge new […]

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Protected bike lanes on the rise

By Alex Perez | November 30, 2023

While Chicago still has a long way to go before it has a citywide, connected network of protected bike lakes (PBLs), it’s certainly making progress. In the past year, Chicago streets have benefited from a surge in the number of protected bike lanes. This not only boosts safety for everyone on the road, but also gets us closer to a […]

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Fighting for a robust transit system, now and for decades to come 

By Active Transportation Alliance | November 13, 2023

Our region’s transit system is facing a pivotal moment.  While ridership is on the rebound from pandemic lows, service is not meeting rider needs and the system is heading towards a significant fiscal cliff. If you’re frustrated with transit service now, be warned that it will be far worse if this funding gap is not addressed. If we don’t intervene, […]

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Tired of waiting for a CTA train or bus? Take action for more service!

By Julia Gerasimenko | November 7, 2023

We’ve long championed robust public transit as the backbone of urban sustainability and accessibility. Unfortunately, recent trends in service by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) present a worrying picture, not just for transit advocates but for every resident relying on public transportation. A concerning chart below from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) illustrates a stark reality: Overall transit […]

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South suburban trails are about to get more connected

By Maya Norris | November 2, 2023

An expanded and more connected trail system is taking shape in the south suburbs. We recently hosted a webinar that explored how the Cal-Sag Trail, Old Plank Road Trail, Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail, and Centennial Trail are improving their connectivity — expanding opportunities for nearby communities to reap the benefits of recreation, healthy lifestyles, and economic development. Here’s what […]

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IDOT asked to create a bold walking and biking plan

By Maggie Melin Czerwinski | October 12, 2023

As the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) develops its state-wide plan for improving walking and biking, dozens of organizations and municipalities are urging the state to take a bold approach with the plan. Active Transportation Alliance has rallied together 69 organizations and municipalities that have expressed their support for a series of recommended policies and programs for IDOT to consider […]

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New law requires CDOT to identify contributing factors in fatal crashes

By Jim Merrell | October 5, 2023

The Chicago City Council recently adopted an ordinance outlining strengthened requirements for the city’s reporting on fatal crashes.   Spearheaded by 50th Ward Alderperson Debra Silverstein, the Fatal Crash Legacy Ordinance will require a detailed investigation after a fatal crash to identify contributing factors. The law requires Chicago Department of Transportation to develop a list of recommended safety improvements that can […]

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South Side trail updates and improvements

By Ted Villaire | September 14, 2023

The South Side of Chicago has long suffered from a dearth of trails and green space. Thankfully, it’s an issue that’s getting more attention. Local community groups and government agencies are revitalizing vacant community spaces to create new trails and enhance existing trails as they seek to bring sustainable transportation options to these historically disinvested neighborhoods. Recently, Active Transportation Alliance […]

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