A new report imagines more robust service on one of Metra's regional commuter lines in Chicago.

"According to a new report, Metra North Central Service Line riders would like weekend service and more frequent weekday runs," reports Igor Studenkov.
A Chicago Metropolitan Agency of Planning’s Local Technical Assistance grant awarded to the Village of Mundelein, which is served by the NCS Line, paid for the study, long before the effects of the coronavirus pandemic gutted service along the line, explains Studenkov. Transit officials are praising the report, however, "as a solid starting point," and committed to figuring out next steps.
The article includes detailed analysis of the planning challenges presented by the line's unique situation in the geography of the Chicago region, as well as the three proposals considered in the plan.
FULL STORY: Despite COVID headwinds, study recommends ways to expand Metra NCS service

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

San Francisco Suspends Traffic Calming Amidst Record Deaths
Citing “a challenging fiscal landscape,” the city will cease the program on the heels of 42 traffic deaths, including 24 pedestrians.

Defunct Pittsburgh Power Plant to Become Residential Tower
A decommissioned steam heat plant will be redeveloped into almost 100 affordable housing units.

Trump Prompts Restructuring of Transportation Research Board in “Unprecedented Overreach”
The TRB has eliminated more than half of its committees including those focused on climate, equity, and cities.

Amtrak Rolls Out New Orleans to Alabama “Mardi Gras” Train
The new service will operate morning and evening departures between Mobile and New Orleans.
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