Public wants improvements in Cook County transportation

For decades transportation planning in Cook County has focused largely on moving cars as quickly as possible through our streets, but it looks like that approach may be changing at last.

The county is currently in the second year of a three-year process to develop a Long Range Transportation Plan. This plan will guide the design and implementation of transportation projects in the region.

During Phase I of the planning process earlier this year, more than 1,600 county residents responded to a public survey and highlighted the need to invest in alternative transportation options.

According to a county summary of responses, respondents indicated they “want to move beyond planning primarily for the automobile and explore opportunities to reduce congestion and enhance public transportation and cycling.”

The county recently released its Phase II survey, which allows us another opportunity to make the case for sustainable transportation.

Please fill out the online survey to provide feedback on county priorities and support improvements to CTA rail and bus service, bikeway facilities, Metra commuter rail service, and Pace bus service in the suburbs.

The county is also hosting four open houses in December where you can weigh in on the plan. Here are the details:

• Tuesday, Dec. 2, 4-7 p.m. – Franklin Park Police Station Community Room (9451 W. Belmont, Franklin Park, IL 60131)
• Wednesday, Dec. 3, 4-7 p.m. – Northbrook Village Hall Board Room (1225 Cedar Lane, Northbrook, IL 60062)
• Thursday, Dec. 4, 4-7 p.m. – Chaddick Institute, DePaul University (14 E. Jackson, Dublin Room, 16th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604)
• Tuesday, Dec. 9, 4-7 p.m. – Orland Park Civic Center (14750 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462)

The planning process concludes next year, with a final report expected by the end of September.