Improving Access, Increasing Livability

Our region relies on its transit system, which benefits all residents and businesses in metropolitan Chicago -- not just the 2 million riders who commute each day by train or bus. Public transportation keeps cars off the roads, reduces congestion for everyone who drives, and improves air quality. The mobility enabled by transit helps our quality of life and economy by giving people more choices for getting around and encouraging businesses to locate here.

Through its Local Technical Assistance (LTA) program, CMAP collaborated with the Developing Communities Project (DCP) and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) on a livability report in support of the proposed CTA Red Line South Extension, which would extend the Red Line from its current terminus at the 95th Street Station four stops to 130th Street. This webpage features the livability report, a brochure summarizing the report, an engaging video, and a map gallery, all of which highlight the importance of the proposed extension and the qualitative and quantitative livability impacts of this major transportation investment. The livability report supplements the CTA's pursuit of federal New Starts funding and serves as an educational resource for the Greater Roseland community, as well as local, state, and federal partners.

GO TO 2040 recommends building the CTA Red Line South Extension because it offers three substantial benefits. The extension would:

• Increase access to jobs.
• Streamline multiple CTA and Pace bus-to-rail connections for routes south of 95th Street, substantially reducing travel times.
• Generate a catalytic economic impact in a highly distressed area of the south side of Chicago -- the Greater Roseland community.