The 'L' train has survived calls to be disbanded and a tumultuous century and a quarter to become a, sometimes unreliable, city icon.
The 1890s were a time of growth for Chicago and, when the city opened its above ground rail line, it was popular immediately. "The wooden train, run by the private Chicago and South Side Rapid Transit Railroad Co. along what is now the Green Line," Mary Wisniewski writes for the Chicago Tribune. "The 'L' also promoted democracy, since it forced people from different income levels, races and ethnic groups to sit together," Greg Brozo, author of The Chicago 'L' told Wisniewski, a claim transit boosters still make today.
Chicago was seeing skyscrapers built along the transit route so it's only fitting that Chicago's train should be elevated, too, Brozo commented.
FULL STORY: Chicago's elevated train system started 125 years ago
Chicago Secures Funding for Southside L Extension
The city was awarded almost $2 billion to build four new stations in Southside neighborhoods long underserved by transit.
Chicago Rail Extension Gains New Federal Funding
The Biden administration has committed over $700 million to the massive project which will bring rail to the Far South Side of the city.
Chicago Trains Make More Room for Bikes
Since Metro launched a new bike-friendly policy in February, the number of bikes on its trains rose by 70 percent.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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