| WASHINGTON,
D.C. – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today announced that the
House approved her funding request of a key transportation project in Chicago.
Schakowsky said that $100,000 to begin to develop plans for the Walkable
Edgewater Initiative was included in the Transportation Appropriations
bill for FY 2001. The Senate has not acted on its version of the
bill.
“This
is a crucial project with environmental, social, and economic benefits
to the residents of Edgewater. The federal government must do its part
to ensure its completion and this is a significant step in that direction.
Working closely with Alderman Mary Ann Smith and the City of Chicago, I
know that we can get the job done,” Schakowsky said.
Schakowsky
added, “I want to commend Alderman Smith for her unwavering commitment
to her constituents and to this vital initiative.”
The
Walkable Edgewater Initiative would improve the sustainability of the Edgewater
community in Chicago, which has 60,700 residents, by developing a community-based
plan to beautify the community and promote neighbor interaction. The project
is expected to result in increased pedestrian activity and transit use
and air quality improvements from decreased auto use. Local businesses
would also benefit from the increased pedestrian traffic.
The
Chicago Department of Transportation would work in partnership with two
community organizations, the Association of Sheridan Condo-Coop Owners
and the Edgewater Community Council, to develop the plan. |
