Voices of Transit

Executive Summary

Springfield lawmakers spent much of 2007 debating how best to solve a looming transit crisis facing Northeastern Illinois. Throughout the year, research was conducted and statistics were compiled to quantify the economic, public health, environmental and other social benefits associated with transit service.

Lawmakers used these facts and figures when considering various changes to the way transit is managed and paid for. While research is critical when considering new policy, the most compelling reason to value transit has all too often been overlooked – the expertise from riders and residents themselves who rely on transit.

Voices of Transit is a compilation of interviews from those that depend on Northeastern Illinois transit. The stories compiled document perspectives from riders in their own words; perspectives that statistics can’t provide.