Loop Link Project

Loop Link Project

Speaking from a personal experience, Chicago has one of the better public transport system in the US. It also has a good bus feeder system. But, it needs to integrate both of them. That is where the Loop Link Transitway would come into play. Starting from December 2015, Loop Link aimed at speeding up service between Michigan Avenue and the West Loop on seven CTA routes from the glacial rush-hour average of 3 mph to a modest 6 mph. This was also done with the intention of improving connections between Chicago's neighbourhoods and the jobs and attractions of the central business district.

Yet, they have been some contrarian views upon its start. “Despite those benefits, it's been unclear whether Loop Link has achieved its main goal of doubling bus speeds. In addition to the car-free lanes, time-saving features include fewer stops, raised boarding platforms at the stations (so operators spend less time "kneeling" the bus for people with mobility issues), and white "queue jump" signals that give buses a head start at stoplights” (Chicago Tribune). I would say yes, it has some adjustments to be made. But, let’s not jump the queue yet.

(Image Credits: CTA)

Figuero Corridor

Figuero Corridor

Los Angeles is considered to be an Alpha City in the world. And such a city should have a sustainable pedestrian-friendly system. The Figueroa Corridor Streetscape project tries to fulfil that initiative.

Staring from the 7th street in Downtown Los Angeles and ending at Exposition Park at USC, this project project began in 2017 and was completed by the end of 2018. “According to Curbed LA, the makeover will include a protected bike lane, bike signals, a dedicated lane for express buses, bus platforms, and wider sidewalks designed for sitting and strolling. A similar makeover will add protected bike paths and other safety improvements to Main and Spring streets” (Curbed). It would also have better signalization and signage, high-visibility crosswalks and transit platforms. It is expected to cost $80 million.

(Image Credits: A picture of the Figueroa Corridor Logo)

Gordie Howe International Bridge

Gordie Howe International Bridge

The relations between US and Canada has taken a hit in recent years. One project which could aid in rebuilding this is the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Previously known as the Detroit River International Crossing and the New International Trade Crossing, the aim of the project is to build a cable-stayed bridge and border crossing across the Detroit River. The crossing will connect Detroit and Windsor in Canada.

First proposed in 2004, already more than $350 million has been spent on the planning of the project. Workers broke ground on July 17, 2018 and construction is expected to be completed in 2024.

“Once complete, the new bridge will provide:

·      Additional capacity to increase trade between Canada and the United States

·      System connectivity

·      Improved border processing and capacity” (Michigan.gov)

Renderings of the Gordie Howe International Bridge (Picture Credits: Detroit News)