Where are we?
the problem Whether for water, rail, road or air travel, Chicago’s role as a transportation hub has always been a key factor in the region’s emergence as a global economic and cultural center. However, Cook County is riddled with hazards and inefficiencies stemming from an outdated, crumbling transportation infrastructure that threatens the county’s economic competitiveness. With gas prices over $4 and rising, residents— especially those in many suburbs—are beginning to realize the true costs of a sprawling, automobiledependent transportation system. Rapidly increasing transportation costs, time wasted in traffic, and poor air quality will progressively worsen unless we take drastic action as a county to fix our region’s crumbling transportation system now.
Where are we going?
the vision In order to ensure the future prosperity of Cook County, a commitment must be made to a bold new vision for transit. The Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT) has a vision of a new vitality for the Chicago region based on a growing, resource-efficient central city, surrounded by compact suburban centers with inclusive economic opportunity and green jobs accessible by an infrastructure system that decreases the cost of living and permits more efficient use of resources.
Building on our vision for the region, CNT’s Transit Future campaign envisions a vital public transit system that fosters a fusion of high quality, lowcarbon living, and inclusive economic success.
the context
National After championing an accelerated funding process for transit capital projects in his home county, in Summer 2011 Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa became chair of the US Conference of Mayors (USCOM). Under Villaraigosa’s leadership, America Fast Forward (AFF), a funding mechanism that empowers and encourages localities to invest in transportation plans through low interest federal loans and long-term bonds, has become the top priority program of the USCOM. Furthermore, Congress is expected to make progress on a national transportation bill; this new legislation will likely include an innovative financing option that AFF is seeking. While passing such legislation would be a huge step forward for transportation, Chicago’s transportation agencies will be unprepared and unable to take advantage of the new innovative funding options unless a local funding source has been identified to match the federal funds.
Local While other regions, like Los Angeles, Atlanta, and the Twin Cities have created new dedicated revenue streams to fund critical transit system improvements, sustained capital funding for transit remains elusive in Illinois. It’s time to change that. Transit Future believes that Cook County residents—like residents in other regions—will stand behind their elected officials in support of a dedicated revenue stream to fund necessary transit system improvements that will create much needed jobs, reduce congestion and pollution, and create more livable communities throughout the region. © 2011 Center for Neighborhood Technology • 2125 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60647 • p: 773-278-4800 • f: 773-278-3840
• www.cnt.org
How do we get there? Transit Future is a countywide campaign to advocate for a world class public transit system that will make Cook County more livable, economically competitive, and environmentally sustainable. Join the Campaign. transi t fu tur e .o r g › › goals & plan »» »» »» »» »»
Prioritize projects in the GOTO2040 Plan that support and expand reliable transit throughout Cook County Increase demand for public transit Secure approval from the Cook County Board for a dedicated revenue stream for transit. Advocate for broad-based economic opportunity and job development in Cook County as well as social, economic, and environmental justice through transit system developments Improve public health and the environment by minimizing pollution and reducing greenhouse gases
about cnt As a creative think-and-do tank, CNT takes a holistic, solution-oriented approach that reflects a commitment to both existing communities and nature. CNT applies new ways of thinking to old problems, uses data to drive solutions, and tests strategies here in Chicago. Our work is rooted in demonstrating to large and small communities that efficient use of existing and natural resources is key to economic well-being and social equity. CNT’s ultimate goal is to make communities sustainable and affordable for everyone. We focus on four areas that most affect the sustainable health of a city: transportation and community development, water, energy, and climate. We work to reduce emissions faster; make energy-efficient buildings the norm; build household wealth and promote community development through transit access; and revolutionize the way people think about nature and cities, not as separate and competing landscapes, but instead as interdependent systems that sustain all life. CNT’s two affiliates, I-GOTM Car Sharing and CNT Energy, directly build new systems of sustainability in the Chicago region, enabling individuals to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle while saving on their household expenses, and building owners to reduce operating costs and stabilize rents. cnt.org ››
© 2011 Center for Neighborhood Technology • 2125 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60647 • p: 773-278-4800 • f: 773-278-3840
• www.cnt.org