Quigley, University of Illinois Examine Chicago Sustainable Transportation
CHICAGO — Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) and University of Illinois President Robert A. Easter gathered local transportation leaders for a roundtable discussion to examine sustainable transportation in Chicago and discuss ways the federal government can support local initiatives.
"Sustainable transportation, everything from public transit to green infrastructure, has to be part of America's long-term energy and environment plan," said Rep. Quigley. "The environmental and economic benefits of Chicago's sustainability efforts showcase the types of innovative investments we should prioritize nationally, which I plan to do in my new role on the Appropriations Committee."
The roundtable focused heavily on the increased economic development that occurs when areas invest in public transportation. Specific programs discussed included the CTA's Red Line Redevelopment Project, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) plans for Ashland Avenue and the new Chicago bike share program.
"As the state's flagship public university, the University of Illinois stands ready to be a resource to Members of Congress as they address challenges in their communities," said President Easter. "Helping Chicago explore sustainable transportation solutions is a core mission of UIC's Urban Transportation Center, a national leader for three decades in solving mobility challenges for urban areas."
The event was held at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) headquarters. The University of Illinois' Urban Transportation Center (UTC) Executive Director Stephen Schlickman moderated. The center is dedicated to conducting research and education and providing technical assistance on urban transportation planning, policy, operations and management.
Additional participants included Forrest Claypool, President of the CTA; Scott Kubly, Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT); Mark Copeland, Illinois Department of Transportation; Bob Dean, Deputy Executive Director of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP); Samantha Bingham, Chicago Area Clean Cities Initiative (CACC); and Lee Crandell, Director of Campaigns for the Active Transportation Alliance.
Rep. Quigley is a stalwart supporter of the environment and a member of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition. He also serves on the House Committee on Appropriations, where he has made Chicago-area infrastructure investment a top priority as a member of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD).
