DuSable Lake Shore Drive Bus Lanes Proposed By RTA

DuSable Lake Shore Drive Bus Lanes Proposed By RTA. The ongoing debate surrounding the redesign of North DuSable Lake Shore Drive has taken a new turn, as the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) advocates for a more transit-friendly approach. On Thursday, RTA Chairman Kirk Dillard voiced his concerns over the current design proposal, which prioritizes cars over public transportation. His remarks add to the growing chorus of voices demanding a reevaluation of the project to include dedicated bus lanes, emphasizing the environmental and social benefits of such a move.

The Need For Bus-Priority Lanes

Chairman Dillard’s stance on the issue is clear: the current design fails to address the needs of tens of thousands of daily bus riders who rely on North DuSable Lake Shore Drive. By favoring cars over buses, the proposed design not only neglects public transit users but also poses significant environmental risks. Dillard highlighted that choosing a car-centric design would be a step backward in the fight against climate change, calling the situation “a climate issue.”

Moreover, Dillard pointed out that the current design contradicts the recommendations of Mayor Brandon Johnson’s transition team report, which strongly advocated for more bus rapid transit (BRT) options in the city. He emphasized the long-term implications of the redesign, stating, “This is [a once in] a 50- or 60-year decision.” As the RTA oversees the finances and transit planning for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and Pace, Dillard’s comments carry significant weight in the ongoing discussions.

The Redefine The Drive Project: A Decade In The Making

The Redefine the Drive project, aimed at overhauling DuSable Lake Shore Drive between Grand and Hollywood avenues, has been in the research and design phase for more than a decade. Despite the extensive planning, the RTA remains concerned that the current proposals do not adequately prioritize public transit. The agency’s Executive Director, Leanne Redden, echoed Dillard’s sentiments, stating, “We feel strongly that transit must be prioritized by providing at least one bus priority lane in any future plans.”

The RTA’s position comes after the recent unveiling of new design options by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT). Out of five proposed designs, only one option excludes bus-priority lanes, sparking criticism from transit advocates. While this option still aims to improve bus traffic through short, bus-only lanes on entrance and exit ramps, the RTA and other transit agencies believe it falls short of what is needed.

A Call To Action: Reevaluate And Redesign

The RTA has been a long-standing advocate for incorporating bus-only or bus-priority lanes into the redesign of DuSable Lake Shore Drive. In a letter dated July 19, Chairman Dillard and Executive Director Redden urged CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney and IDOT Secretary Omer Osman to reconsider the current design. They argued that “both alternatives provide at least one transit-priority lane, which is essential to not only ease congestion for all users of the corridor but to meet critical climate goals for the region and state.”

As the project moves forward, the RTA and other stakeholders continue to push for a redesign that aligns with the city’s broader goals of sustainability and efficient public transit. The decision made in the coming months will have lasting implications, not only for the daily commuters who depend on the bus system but also for the city’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Conclusion

The future of North DuSable Lake Shore Drive hangs in the balance as city and state planners face increasing pressure to prioritize public transit in their redesign efforts. The RTA’s call for at least one bus-priority lane underscores the importance of sustainable transit solutions that benefit both commuters and the environment. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the final design will reflect the needs of Chicago’s transit riders and the city’s commitment to a greener future.