CHICAGO - Chicago bicyclists are celebrating the super duper prize they grabbed in the state's new capital program - $50 Million annually to spend on walking and bicycling projects. $50 Million per year to spend as they see fit into perpetuity.
That means $50 Million less on road repairs, bridge reconstruction, sewer repairs, and all those projects Illinois lawmakers apparently believe are less-important throughout the state.
Unbelievable? Here's the press release the Active Transportation Alliance distributed prior to their celebration at Daley Plaza Friday:
For the first time ever, Illinois’ long-term capital program includes dedicated funding for walking and biking projects. Active Transportation Alliance is celebrating this great achievement at its 28th Annual Chicago Bike Week Rally tomorrow morning!
What: Chicago Bike Week Rally
When: Friday June 21: 7am – 9am
Where: Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington)
As usual, guests will enjoy a light breakfast, free giveaways from sponsors, and a free Bike Week t-shirt. Attendees will have the opportunity to thank their state elected officials by signing a massive thank you card.
Earlier this month, legislators passed a $33 billion, six-year transportation capital program. Gov. Pritzker said he will sign the bill into law, which includes $50 million annually for walking and bicycling projects.
“Legislators across Illinois championed this issue in Springfield and stood up for people who walk and bike,” said Ron Burke, Executive Director of the Active Transportation Alliance. “Elected officials told us this never would have happened without Active Trans, and that includes our more than 20,000 supporters across Chicagoland.”
With this new funding stream secured at the state level, Active Trans now has its sights set at the city level. Rally guests will have the opportunity to sign a petition urging Mayor Lightfoot to stand firm on her commitment to support 100 miles of new bikeways, 50 miles of new bus lanes, building of a continuous Chicago River Trail, and creating a $20 million Safe Streets Fund.
In addition to the rally, Active Trans is hosting a series of other Bike Week events, including the Bike to Work Challenge, presented by Keating Law Offices, as well as Divvy’s 6th birthday celebration at Theater on the Lake on Thurs., June 27, 4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
More information about the Chicago Bike Week Rally and other Bike Week events can be found athttp://go.pardot.com/e/213232/bikeweek/64bln/176696667?h=KBAhIhMNIJ1VqLHnS8b0Mcrcsdr6eObnjHYBJ9iP9ho.
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About the Active Transportation Alliance
The Active Transportation Alliance is a non-profit, member-based advocacy organization that advocates for walking, bicycling and public transit to create healthy, sustainable and equitable communities. The organization works to build a movement around active transportation, encourage physical activity, increase safety and build a world-class transportation network. The Active Transportation Alliance has more than 20,0000 members and supporters in the Chicago region. For more information about the Active Transportation Alliance, visit www.activetrans.org or call 312.427.3325
