John Greenfield
In addition to editing Streetsblog Chicago, John writes the transportation column for the Chicago Reader weekly paper. A Chicagoan since 1989, he enjoys exploring the city on foot, bike, bus, and 'L' train.
Recent Posts
It's Time to Legalize the Parking Spot Cafe
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There are plenty of ways Chicago can help restaurants and bars survive this extremely challenging period -- if city officials are willing to be flexible, generous, and proactive to help them out.
How Raising Gas Taxes Prevents COVID Carmageddon
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Raising the city gas tax a few cents a gallon would help deter unnecessary car trips while addressing the budget shortfall, without causing undue fiscal pain for residents.
Low-Speed Electric 'Tuk-Tuks' Could Reduce Traffic Injuries
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As long new low-speed, electric transportation modes don't cause any other major problems, I say the more, the merrier.
Chicago Commuter Line Offers 'Mask Optional' Car
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Is the commuter railroad's unique approach to dealing with COVID deniers on trains completely misguided, or so gosh darn irrational that it just might work?
Chicago Gets Pop-Up Pandemic Bus Lanes
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Streetsblog was pushing for pop-up bus lanes months ago when traffic was much lighter and there would have been less potential political backlash to repurposing mixed-traffic lanes but, hey, better late than never.
Keeping People from Parking Scooters on Sidewalks
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Scooter ridership is down this year per vehicle compared to last year, but the average trip length is longer, and the companies have been doing a better job of complying with equity rules.
Chicago Releases Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Plan
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A new equitable transit-oriented development plan published by the city today lays out steps for bringing affordable TOD to all parts of town.
These Plastic Bike Lanes Could Save Lives
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An upcoming bikeway project in Logan Square will demonstrate this fairly cheap, quick, flexible, and effective approach to installing protected lanes that should be repeated across the city.
Why We Should Make Covid-Era "Cafe Streets" Permanent
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Since pedestrianized dining districts are so economically successful and vibrant, and so much more pleasant than the normal car-choked situation, why don't we make them permanent?
Car Impound Fee Reform is a Mobility Justice Issue
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The new ordinance ends impoundment for non-moving violations, reduces fines, caps storage fees, and provides a pathway for Chicagoans to pay their debts and get their vehicles back.
CPD Order Streetsblog to Stop Filming Arrest
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A minor encounter with Chicago Police Department officers underscored the importance of making sure police follow laws protecting freedom of the press.
STREETSBLOG CHICAGO R.I.P. Bike Lane Hater John Forester, a Worthy Adversary
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While Forester's anti-bike lane credo ran contrary to much of what Streetsblog stands for, you still have to respect his tenacity.