- United States
- Ill.
- Letter
The decline in ridership on Chicago's L train system is alarming, with safety and reliability concerns at the forefront. The shortage of drivers has led to skipped runs, decreased reliability, and an increase in auto traffic congestion and pollution. The pandemic has exacerbated these issues, contributing to a lawless atmosphere marked by an uptick in robberies and assaults. The conditions on the trains have deteriorated, becoming unsanitary and unpleasant. It is crucial to address these issues, as they disproportionately affect lower-income residents who rely on public transit. Therefore, it is requested to consider increasing the CTA workforce, implementing alternative crime reduction tactics, and finding other shelter options for unhoused individuals. The current leadership under Dorval Carter has failed to address these issues effectively, and a change in leadership may be necessary to restore the L train system to its full potential.