We endorse Michael Crawford.
“As a youth, I was dependent on public transportation, due to my family's inability to afford a car. To that end, I had the opportunity to stand-up on behalf of my community, by testifying at a CTA hearing to ensure that they had adequate and equitable access to public transportation.
Transportation equity is indeed my oldest advocacy position. As it was almost 30 years ago at that hearing: access to safe, adequate, accessible, and equitable transportation is important to keep our community members working and our economy moving. I look forward to supporting initiatives such as:
The CTA Red Line Expansion project
Support for increased capacity for para-transit (PACE) services for seniors and community members with disabilities, to improve on-time rates.
Fare stabilization across the entire RTA system, including reduced fares for seniors, community members with disabilities, and students.”
Read Michael Crawford’s responses to our questionnaire
What types of transportation do you use during an average week, and how has this shaped your view of transportation policy?
I take the Metra Rock Island, then walk a mile from the Lasalle street station to work 5 days/week. I think we need more ridership on public transportation. We also need to invest in our public transit infrastructure to reduce delays, which are commonplace. Fares should be reduced for those with limited income, to encourage usage.
What are some transportation challenges in your district?
The southwest side and suburbs are primarily served by buses, which have to compete with car traffic, and are often unreliable. We also lack dedicated or protected bike lanes in most areas.
How can the State of Illinois address the impending combined $700 million fiscal cliff facing the CTA, Metra, and Pace in a way that ensures sustained and adequate funding for the future?
Public transit is of the utmost importance to our region. We must identify new revenue streams to address the fiscal cliff, without cutting service or raising fares for riders.
A federal rule allows for states to flex up to 50% of federal highway funds towards transit instead. New Jersey currently flexes 15%, and California flexes 12% compared to Illinois at just under 3%. Would you make any changes to this amount, and if so why?
Yes. Given the importance that transit has in our area, particularly for those who may not own or cannot afford a vehicle, the state should consider increasing the flex amount. This is the equitable thing to do.
The Illinois Department of Transportation (“IDOT”) plays a significant role in transportation throughout the state and in Chicago. What is your opinion on their relationship with the Chicago Department of Transportation, local communities, and the impact that has?
As a cyclist, I am excited that IDOT and CDOT have agreed to work together on standards that make our streets safer for all to use. This continued collaboration is necessary in the city, but also within the suburbs, particularly those who have limited resources.
How do you view the Illinois General Assembly’s role in setting IDOT’s priorities for public transit, passenger rail, and strengthening accessibility in transportation?
I view this as one of the most important roles that the legislature has. Without, safe, and efficient, low-cost access to transit, the state's economy cannot grow, people cannot make it to school and work, and historical inequities in our state will continue.
What is your position on IDOT’s current proposals for rebuilding North Du Sable Lake Shore Drive?
I would be in support of the rebuild, if it can reclaim greenspace, and add additional safe access to the lakefront, as promised. I would like to see dedicated bus lanes as well.