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

When it's not freezing outside, I commute to work on my bike, just a 7-minute ride from home. Like many urban cyclists, I've had some close calls, fueling my commitment to enhancing pedestrian and bike-friendly infrastructure in our communities. As a teacher dedicated to the next generation, I aim to create a future where my students and their families can thrive—having access to reliable public transportation , safer streets for drivers and cyclists, and access to green spaces.

What are some transportation challenges in your district?

Milwaukee and Elston Avenue has quickly become a hub for cyclists in the 20th district; there is a lack of accessible and safe pedestrian and cyclist paths as well as an overall lack of public transportation routes.

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?

Though an undertaking, I support a long-term plan to improve service, make buses and trains more accessible and make sure all the different bus and train lines effectively link up with one another. It is crucial we do so to ensure our black, brown, and low-income residents have access to reliable transportation. In order to address the impending fiscal cliff, the 47 board members across the 4 boards, elected officials, and stakeholders must look for other- long-term funding solutions as opposed to the stop-gap measures in place.

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?

I support increasing this amount to improve public transportation across the district- provided it does not impact the safety/improvements that are necessary for Illinois drivers.

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?

I would emphasize the importance of collaboration between IDOT and the Chicago Department of Transportation to prioritize sustainable and equitable transportation solutions. I would stress the need for investments in public transit, infrastructure, and community engagement to address issues like environmental justice and accessibility.

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?

It is crucial that we include both IDOT and other transit stakeholders when crafting new legislation to improve both transit and roads- these two issues are not mutually exclusive. The Illinois General Assembly plays an important role in shaping transportation priorities. We influence IDOT's focus on public transit, passenger rail, and accessibility by passing laws, approving funding, and providing policy direction to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive transportation system for the state.

What is your position on IDOT’s current proposals for rebuilding North Du Sable Lake Shore Drive?

Reimagining DuSable Lake Shore Drive is an excellent opportunity to create union jobs and provide better public transit. Our roadways are still vital to commerce and transportation, and until we have given people reliable and safe alternatives to cars, we cannot neglect our roadways–we must make sure they are safe and efficient. Any plans to change Lake Shore Drive would need to ensure that traffic congestion is improved and that south-side commuters are not affected.