How I-55 will give you 16 minutes back

MPC supports Gov. Rauner's proposal to add a toll lane in each direction

There are very few things worse than being stuck in traffic, and most anyone who spends time on our region’s roads agrees traffic is terrible. But, loosen your grip on the steering wheel and take a few deep breaths, because on I-55, traffic is about to move much faster.

Gov. Rauner is calling for what's known as a "managed lane:" It could be a carpool lane, it could be a tolled lane, it could be a tolled lane where cars carrying more than one person don't have to pay. MPC has projected that this will have benefits for drivers who aren't even using the lane. And those who choose to pay extra to use the lane will save 22 minutes per trip, on average.

MPC has advocated for this for a long time, and we're thrilled to finally see it happen. Buckle your seat belts everybody, and here we go!

Forward

Read Later

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MPC's own Yonah Freemark writes for the New York Times about how that city can do streetcars well—or mess them up completely. Plus, one way Chicago is ahead.

Combining schools

Parent and MPC Board Member Chris Conley writes cogently and poignantly for the Chicago Tribune about a potential school merger—and the racism that stands in the way.

Revamping Chicago Union Station

At our event on Tuesday, Amtrak, along with an architect, developer and restaurateur, explained the opportunities and challenges of reimagining Chicago's iconic station.

March 3—MPC Urban Think & Drink
What happened to the moderates?

In the age of a budget-less Illinois and constant stalemate at the federal and state levels, uncomfortable questions like "Does democracy even work anymore?" crop up.

Veteran congressman and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood joins MPC on March 3 for an Urban Think & Drink on a very important topic for our state: bipartisanship. Sec. LaHood will talk about his decades of experience in Washington, as well as sign copies of his book, Seeking Bipartisanship.

Doors open Thursday, March 3, at 5 p.m. The program will begin at 5:30, with time to mingle (and get your book signed) before and after. Come enjoy a beer, a talk and great company!

MPC thanks BNSF Railway and CSX Transportation for sponsoring this event. Thanks to Revolution Brewing for providing libations!