What types of transportation do you use during an average week, and how has this shaped your view of transportation policy?

Driving & Walking I carpool to work with some fellow County employees. I also am an avid walker. My experiences have helped me understand how transportation policymaking can help to shape our city's and county's economic growth and success while also supporting livable and connected neighborhoods.

What are some transportation challenges in your district?

I'm grateful to represent a district that has many great public transportation options for residents. Aging infrastructure is always a challenge in Cook County. The decline in rider safety on public transit has also become a significant challenge in recent years.

Cook County residents often find their local roadways fall under multiple different jurisdictions and standards. How do you view the County’s role in ensuring consistent, safe, and accessible transportation for constituents?

I believe the County, under President Preckwinkle and the Board of Commissioners, has done a great job of working with all the local municipalities to develop a transportation plan from many perspectives—private automobiles, highways, bridges, public transportation, pedestrian access, bikeways, freight rail and trucking corridors that supports the growth and economic vitality of communities across Cook County. I believe that working to implement the County's Long Range Transportation Plan will best ensure the safe and accessible transportation for 11th district residents.

What can Cook County do to stabilize and expand access to bikeshare programs that span municipalities?

In 2023, Cook County launched it's first ever Bike Plan to address issues facing cyclists in Cook County. The plan outlines ways the County will build bike infrastructure along roadways under DoTH’s jurisdiction, make connections within the existing trail network to eliminate gaps, study potential areas where new off-street trails can be installed, provide support to municipalities looking to add bike routes on residential streets and partner with agencies to make intersections safer for cyclists, especially in areas where bike paths cross major roads. I believe that by making cyclists safer we can encourage the growth of rideshare programs across Cook County. I'm also always willing to work with local mayors and local alderpersons to discuss bikeshare options and expansion. The County's Invest in Cook grants may also be an option for municipalities looking to expand bikeshare programs.

What role can the County play in bringing funding sources and revenue streams to county transportation projects?

County Commissioners play a critical role in shaping and delivering funding for transportation projects that keep our communities connected and competitive. I have always supported revenue streams when they are linked to sustainable, long-term solutions that address the structural problems affecting Cook County residents, such as aging infrastructure, limited transit access, and public safety concerns.

Cook County has a history of innovating access to public services, including public transit – such as the Fair Transit South Cook pilot. As commissioner, what are ways you envision the County innovating on transportation?

I was happy to support the Fair Transit Pilot, the County's Long Range Transportation Plan and the County's Bike Plan. I believe implementing the goals of these important plans is the best way for the County Board to be innovative on transportation.