We endorse Kam Buckner.
Over the past couple of years, Kam Buckner has become the boldest and most vocal elected official for transportation issues in the State of Illinois. He is unafraid of big ideas and saying it like it is.
We’re so lucky to have a champion like Kam in Springfield, and we are proud to support his re-eleciton.
Read Kam Buckner’s responses to our questionnaire
What types of transportation do you use during an average week, and how has this shaped your view of transportation policy?
I am an avid rider of CTA and a cyclist. Because I understand the mass transit system and the issues around street safety for pedestrians and cyclists, I’ve been a staunch advocate for safe streets policy.
What are some transportation challenges in your district?
Lack of protected bike lanes, infrastructure that makes traffic violence easier to occur, lack of connectivity between CTA and Metra, not enough focus on Transit Oriented Development, an unimaginative DLSD.
How can the State of Illinois address the impending combined $700 million fiscal cliff facing the CTA, Metra, and Pace in a way that ensures sustained and adequate funding for the future?
Reform first, then revenue. We have to take a serious look at the fare box ratio and the fact that both state and federal governments have intentionally underfunded transit and put parameters in place to change that. We also need to have a real look at governance and accountability measures.
A federal rule allows for states to flex up to 50% of federal highway funds towards transit instead. New Jersey currently flexes 15%, and California flexes 12% compared to Illinois at just under 3%. Would you make any changes to this amount, and if so why?
California, New Jersey, New York, and Virginia have shown a commitment to transit by flexing FTA funds for transit projects. Illinois is behind the 8 ball. If we want better systems we need to commit to them.
The Illinois Department of Transportation (“IDOT”) plays a significant role in transportation throughout the state and in Chicago. What is your opinion on their relationship with the Chicago Department of Transportation, local communities, and the impact that has?
Both agencies need to be doing much more to not perpetuate a car centric approach to transportation. They have not been bold or creative and because of it we have antiquated and dangerous streets.
How do you view the Illinois General Assembly’s role in setting IDOT’s priorities for public transit, passenger rail, and strengthening accessibility in transportation?
The legislature needs to take a more aggressive role in setting the policy direction for IDOT and I have led the charge on that.
What is your position on IDOT’s current proposals for rebuilding North Du Sable Lake Shore Drive?
They are sad. We deserve better. I have also led the charge to change this.