Civic Group Proposes Closing Parts of 20 Chicago Streets

[marmar]

IL: Civic Group Proposes Closing Parts of 20 Chicago Streets

Jon Hilkevitch
Source: Chicago Tribune
Created: February 12, 2014


Feb. 12--The idea of car-free streets might seem pointless to some, but if selected thoughtfully they are just the kind of peaceful havens that are in too-short supply in Chicago, a civic group says.

That group, which for years has advocated pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly Chicago streets, is releasing a proposal Wednesday for 20 car-free areas and public plazas across the city.

The Active Transportation Alliance's objective is to make downtown and the neighborhoods more attractive places to live and shop, and to help residents get around easily and safely by promoting more bicycling and walking while also reducing traffic accidents, officials at the alliance said.

"Chicago's shortage of parks and playgrounds away from the lakefront is well documented," said Ron Burke, the group's executive director, "but the city also comes up short for open space in the form of car-free public plazas and streets." .......................(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.masstransitmag.com/news/11309583/civic-group-proposes-closing-parts-of-20-chicago-streets