Smart Growth

My plan for smart growth includes:

  • Investing in existing communities, not subsidizing sprawl
  • Prioritizing transit funding while increasing accountability
  • Advancing a regional high-speed rail system

Promoting vibrant and sustainable communities

I believe that Illinois should invest in the health of existing communities, rather than subsidizing sprawling growth in largely undeveloped exurban areas. For too long, the state has used grants, tax incentives, and limited infrastructure funds to encourage businesses and people to move farther away from established communities. In addition, a large portion of the $1.2 billion of business subsidies handed out by the State between 1990 and 2004 went to affluent or undeveloped areas, rather than the existing communities that need it most. As a result, traditional downtowns have lost their vibrancy, transit has been neglected, open space and farmland has been paved over, and existing infrastructure has not been adequately maintained. As State Representative, I will work to refocus the state's efforts toward promoting smart growth in the 17th District and throughout Illinois.

Developing a world-class transit system

An efficient and convenient transit system provides commuters with options, relieves road congestion, and helps reduce air pollution. Illinois, however, spent nearly $2 billion on building roads last year while Metra, Pace, CTA and other transit options have inadequate operating and capital funds. I will work to ensure that transit funding is prioritized in Springfield, while also requiring transit agencies to be more accountable to their customers and the community. I strongly support fair and sustainable funding for the RTA.

Promoting transit-oriented development

We will benefit the most from mass transit if new development is located in areas that are accessible to train stops and bus routes. I will sponsor legislation to provide incentives for transit-oriented development, which seeks to locate housing, commerce, and jobs in walkable communities centered at transit stops. Illinois took a good first step with the 2006 Business Location Efficiency Incentive Act, which allowed businesses to receive slightly higher subsidies from the state if they are located near transit or existing housing. I will work to substantially strengthen this law and ensure that more businesses will be accessible to transit or existing housing.