Statement from Senator Don Harmon (D - Oak Park) on the CTA Blue Line Modernization Plan:

Upon reading the article on CTA Blue Line station closures from today's Wednesday Journal, I contacted the CTA immediately, concerned that the future of the stations had been determined prematurely and without adequate community input.

I was heartened to learn that, in fact, the contrary is true.  The headline and story as printed this morning in the Wednesday Journal unfortunately are misleading.  Although the headline states that blue line entrances at East, Lombard and Circle “would be lost,”  the CTA clarified for me that, in fact, its own planners are against the idea of closing the second station entrances at those locations.  The CTA planners recognize that such steps reduce transit access.  While the idea of “compact”  design may be under discussion for other stops along the entire Blue Line that do NOT currently have two entrances, that idea is, at this point, not on the table for the stations mentioned.  I believe we need to explain this point more clearly to our constituents.

As you know, I have been following CTA blue line modernization plans very closely.  From the start, it has been my goal to work with the CTA, Oak Park, the City of Chicago and the surrounding communities, to expand and improve transit service and make much-needed improvements to the blue line stations.  Transit greatly benefits our community, helping us avoid traffic on the roadways, providing environmental benefits, and providing affordable transportation options for all households.  I remain vigilant and committed to improving transit facilities and ensuring continued access for Oak Park and other area riders.

Click here to add your name to Senator Harmon's petition in support of reliable and efficient public transit service in our communities.

To read more about the CTA Blue Line Modernization Plan, click here.