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"?
Chip Mitchell reports on the controversy surrounding the ambitious plan for 4.5 miles of Ashland Avenue being backed by the Chicago Transit Authority, the Chicago Department of Transportation and the Chicago Department of Housing and Economic Development. "The design favored by the Chicago planners resembles the boldest of four BRT alternatives the city presented last fall for the corridor. Each direction of Ashland would have one regular traffic lane and a bus-only lane near the middle of the avenue. In each direction, the design leaves a parking lane next to the sidewalk, city officials say. There would be no bike lanes." The route would incorporate other features including: station platforms, advanced payment, and prioritized traffic lights.
"Some Chicago business owners along the route are already voicing worries about BRT, particularly about eliminating non-bus lanes. 'The idea of cutting the traffic capacity in half has caused a lot of questions for businesses and property owners,' said Roger Romanelli, executive director of the Randolph/Fulton Market Association."
"City officials respond that their BRT plan would slow automobiles just slightly and speed up buses dramatically," notes Mitchell. "The city says the new bus service would be up to 80 percent faster than today’s service."
"Asked whether Emanuel was behind the plan and whether he would stick behind it if business owners revolted, his office had little to say. 'All of this is still under review,' Tom Alexander, a mayoral spokesman, wrote in an email message to WBEZ."
FULL STORY: Chicago planners push boldest bus-rapid-transit option

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

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

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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