On Weds., the Chicago Transit Authority approved plans to create three new rapid-transit extensions to the classic system.
The CTA considered a Bus Rapid Transit option, but rejected it in favor of expanding the existing rail system. The new lines will extend the Red, Yellow and Orange lines.
"The three projects are designed to improve travel times from locations far from the city center that currently suffer from inadequate transit options and heavy traffic congestion. The identification of the locally preferred alternative (LPA) allows the authority to move forward with an environmental impact statement and ultimately a submission to the FTA. The cash-poor CTA has yet to identify local funding sources that would contribute to the lines, however, so their completion remains in doubt."
FULL STORY: Chicago Moves Forward With Three Rapid Transit Extensions
Op-Ed: Invest More in Chicago's Buses
In addition to funding the city's roadways and trains, Chicago could use new federal infrastructure dollars to shore up its bus system and invest in bus rapid transit that would improve service for riders.
The Case for Bus Rapid Transit
Bus rapid transit (BRT) is well known among planners as a cheap method to improve bus service and provide an alternative to rail, but BRT projects around the country have met resistance from an array of status quo interests.
Chicago's Bold BRT Plan Gets Pushback from Businesses
The plan being proposed for a new bus-rapid-transit (BRT) line operating along busy Ashland Avenue would limit left turns and see the removal of a traffic lane. Will it survive "political vetting by Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s office"?
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
San Francisco's School District Spent $105M To Build Affordable Housing for Teachers — And That's Just the Beginning
SFUSD joins a growing list of school districts using their land holdings to address housing affordability challenges faced by their own employees.
The Tiny, Adorable $7,000 Car Turning Japan Onto EVs
The single seat Mibot charges from a regular plug as quickly as an iPad, and is about half the price of an average EV.
Austin's First Single Stair Apartment Building is Officially Underway
Eliminating the requirement for two staircases in multi-story residential buildings lets developers use smaller lots and more flexible designs to create denser housing.
Atlanta Bus System Redesign Will Nearly Triple Access
MARTA's Next Gen Bus Network will retool over 100 bus routes, expand frequent service.
Toronto Condo Sales Drop 75%
In two of Canada’s most expensive cities, more condos were built than ever — and sales are plummeting.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)