Imagine Sustainable Transit: Event Recap

October 17, 2024 / Event Recaps

MPC gets the conversation rolling on imagining sustainable transit

On September 26, 2024, Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC) was thrilled to host a breakfast reception and tour event on a CTA “L” train with 85 guests to highlight the importance of sustainable transit in our region.

We kicked off the event with remarks from MPC Senior Director Audrey Wennink who highlighted MPC’s long history of engagement with transit reform. Senate Transportation Committee Chair Ram Villivalam spoke about the critical role of transit to the success of the Chicago region. State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado, a former CTA employee, shared her passion for making transit work for residents of the region. We were excited to also welcome State Representatives Will Davis, Mary Gill, Anna Moeller, Yolonda Morris, Kevin Olickal and First Deputy Governor Shareese Pryor.

MPC Senior Director Audrey Wennink makes opening remarks at the reception.

Ram speaks to audience — Senate Transportation Committee Chair Ram Villivalam addresses the engaged audience.

eva dina delgado speaking — State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado shares her experience as a CTA employee, and her passion for transit.

carol ross barney on train platform — Carol Ross Barney addresses attendees at the Morgan St Station

Guests then walked to the Morgan CTA station to board a charter train. While on the platform waiting for the train, they heard from esteemed civic architect Carol Ross Barney who designed the Morgan station and has worked on designs for 30 CTA train stations over her career.

As the group traveled on the Green Line south and Pink Line, staff provided narration on highlights along the route and how transit fits in the fabric of communities. Phil Beckham joined the group at 43rd Street to talk about the 43 Green development adjacent to the station. Bernard Lloyd of Urban Juncture also gave remarks about his organization’s work to restoring the Forum, and creation of the Boxville marketplace of start-up shops in shipping containers at the 51st Street station. Elevated Chicago Executive Director Juan Sebastian Arias provided an overview of Equitable Transit Oriented Development and highlighted the Woodlawn Station affordable housing at the 63rd and Cottage Grove station. Along the Pink Line we heard from Justin Hayford of Esperanza Health Centers who talked about the importance of transit to their patients.

For more information on the current need for transit governance reform and funding see our transit project page here.