The proposed “O’Hare Flyer” is an unconscionable project of enormous consequences (financial, economic, environmental, safety …) if allowed to progress. The economic repercussions would be hugely consequential to our existing public transportation infrastructures: CTA and Metra.
The proposed project does not service individuals residing along the proposed trajectory and will negatively impact each community: Forest Park, River Forest, Melrose Park, Franklin Park and Schiller Park. The tracks are within half a block of an elementary school in one of the communities. This express train traveling every 7½ minutes does not belong in high density residential neighborhoods. Nor does it service minimum wage airport employees who depend on reliable and affordable mass transit.
Most importantly, the “O’Hare Flyer” will ultimately syphon state and federal funding that would better serve Chicago’s pre-existing transit systems. Perhaps a more efficient and equitable solution is to add express Blue Line trains on half-hour intervals. This would be far more cost effective and service more Chicago neighborhoods. Supporting Metra initiatives are also in the interest of our communities.
Debora Beckett
River Forest
