THE REGIONAL GREEN TRANSIT PLAN May 2012 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 1 About Us Climate Change and the Chicago Region 3 The Chicago region’s transit system is comprised of the Regional Transportation Transit – A Green Transportation Choice Authority (RTA) and three operating 5 agencies—Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), and Pace. Growing Ridership and Market Share 7

The RTA system covers six counties – Cook, Promote Transit-Oriented Development 9 DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will - in Northeastern , with a population of over 8 million people. Improve Operational Efficiencies 11

As the third largest public transit system Greening the Transit System 13 in the nation, the agencies provide more than two million rides each weekday and operate more than 5,000 vehicles over Adapting to a Changing Climate 15 7,200 route miles. Transit – An Essential Green Investment Strategy 17 RTA provides funding, planning and fiscal oversight for regional bus and rail operations. � Summary 19 CTA provides bus and heavy rail service in the City of Chicago and neighboring suburbs. � Contact 20

Metra provides commuter rail service throughout the region. �

Pace provides bus service in the suburbs and between the suburbs and the City of Chicago, � as well as paratransit and vanpool service in the entire region. 2 The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan

vision for the region’s transit system that aims to enhance the customer experience, increase that aims to enhance the customer experience, system transit the region’s vision for Building on this effort the system. ridershipthe efficiency of the transit transit and improve Plan quantifies Transit Regional Chicago Green in transit the benefits of public the environmental can transit how for a roadmap and provides region the sustainability of the Chicago help improve Plan Transit RegionalChicago Green The region. the a seriesidentifies to achieve of strategies - the green of increasing goals agencies’ transit house using natural gas emissions benefits of transit, reducing environmental efficiently, more resources - impacts and pro of construction and maintenance, of transit-oriented communities. moting the growth the The implementation of this plan will require stakeholders. of many collaboration and cooperation the help make will not only Enhancing transit sustainable, environmentally more region Chicago its position as a global economic center. strengthen it will also help the region SOCIAL VALUE allowing States, systems in the United 24-hour transit is one of the few system The RTA and recreational shopping doctor appointments, schools, to jobs, visitors and residents to travel physical to improved is linked transit quality public High activities at all hours of the day. activity than non-riders part take of physical higher levels riders in as transit generally health, also is Transit share. market with high transit in regions tend to be lower and obesity rates stress lower to have been found commuters as transit have mental health, to improved linked than commuterslevels who drive to work. the Regional Priorities a collective launched advance to Initiative the RTA In summer 2011,

The RTA system The RTA 1 each weekday on a system whose assets are valued valued on a system whose assets are weekday each than $36 billion. at more ENVIRONMENTAL VALUE ENVIRONMENTAL 750 than more saves region in the Chicago Transit more keeping year, million gallons of gasoline each gases from than 6.7 million metric tons of greenhouse By removing into the atmosphere. being released one million cars every the road from over weekday, gasoline and diesel reduces transit consumption and the amount of toxic pollutants being emittedreduces into the air. http://www.publictransportation.org/tools/transitsavings/Pages/default.aspx

Introduction 1

attracts businesses and jobs to the region, as more corporations take into account access to take corporations as more and jobs to the region, businesses attracts Additionally, recruit talent. offices and considering when new to locate new quality transit where generally and premiums and major bus stops enjoy stations significant land-value land near rail markets. residential competitive outperform

Transit can save households in the Chicago region up to $11,500 annually. region households in the Chicago can save Transit ECONOMIC VALUE ECONOMIC VALUE The Chicago region is faced with the challenge of maintaining and strengthening its position position its and strengthening of maintaining with the challenge is faced region The Chicago environmentally, to remain needs the region meet this challenge, To center. as a global economic a well-utilized, keyAs a component of sustainability, sustainable. and socially economically economic spur emissions, gas greenhouse can reduce system transit and safe reliable and visitors. employees development residents, mobility for and improve regions most sustainable one of the in making Chicago role an integral plays transit Public Authority Transit Chicago (RTA), Authority Transportation The Regional in the country. operating system in the country, transit comprise largest the third and Pace Metra (CTA), rides taken million transit are than two More miles. 7,200 route over 5,000 vehicles over Introduction 1 3 4

Climate Change and the Chicago Region The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan

Greenhouse gas emissions - measured in metric and spring could see significant increases in systems, potentially resulting in blackouts and a further reduction to 60% below 1990 levels tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (MTCO2e) precipitation, resulting in flooding along the higher electricity and water costs. A changing by 2050. The Chicago Climate Action Plan and – are both natural and man-made. Due largely to region’s river system. The frequency of severe climate could also raise the cost of living and Go To 2040 Plan, the region’s comprehensive burning fossil fuels, increasing deforestation and storms will likely increase, which can have im- doing business in the region, as homes, office plan, recommend citywide and regional development, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels pacts of transit operations across the region.1 buildings, roadways, bridges and transit systems greenhouse gas emissions reductions of

Climate Change and the Chicago Region have increased 25% in the past century. This become more expensive to operate and maintain. 25% below 1990 levels by 2020 and 80% dramatic growth has contributed to rising global Without aggressive action, climate change could below 1990 levels by 2050. temperatures, rising ocean levels and more frequent have significant physical and financial impacts in Governments throughout Illinois recognize the instances of severe weather around the world. the Chicago region. Higher temperatures and more potential danger that climate change presents and Growing public transit ridership and expand- frequent heat waves could lead to higher rates of have begun taking steps to deal with the potential ing transit service are highlighted as essential illness and death, especially for children, seniors negative impacts. In recent years, a series of green- strategies for achieving greenhouse gas emissions and people with pre-existing health conditions. house gas emission reduction targets have been reduction targets and improving the region’s Increased electricity use and precipitation could established at the state, regional and local levels. sustainability in each of these reports. The stress the region’s power and water infrastructure The Report of the Illinois Climate Change Advisory following pages quantify the current environ- Group proposes a statewide reduction of green- mental benefits of transit in the Chicago region house gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, and and show how these benefits can grow.

Monthly Average Temperature Chicago Midway Weather Station Locally, the Chicago region has begun to experience 90 the impacts of a changing climate, which are pro- 1991-2010 1961-1990 jected to intensify over the next few decades. Since 80 1980, annual average temperature in the Chicago region has increased 2.6°F and heat waves have 70

occurred more frequently. The number of annual F) ○ heavy rainfall events has doubled since the 1970’s. 60

50 Without significant reductions in global carbon emissions, scientists project that by the end of 40 this century Chicago’s climate could be dramati-

cally altered. Summers will be characterized Source: Chicago Climate Action Plan 30 by prolonged heat waves and little rain. Winter Monthly Average Temperature ( 20

10 1 “Climate Change and Chicago: Projections and Potential Impacts”. November 2007. http://www.chicagoclimateaction.org/file bin/pdf/report/Chicago_Climate_Impacts_Report.pdf 0 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Source: Illinois State Climatologist 5 6

Transit – A Green Transportation Choice The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan

Each year, a total of approximately 130 million Beyond producing only a fraction of the region’s the amount of carbon produced by transit. Without emissions saved versus emissions produced, metric tons of carbon are produced in the Chicago greenhouse gas emissions, a well-utilized public transit, the region’s drivers would consume 750 rather than reduce transit’s carbon footprint, region. Transportation emissions, which come transit system can actually help lower total million more gallons of gasoline and drive 32 since a small increase in transit’s carbon from the consumption of fossil fuels and electricity regional greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to million more miles each year, requiring over 30 footprint typically results in a significantly needed to power cars, trucks, buses and trains, being more emissions-efficient than a car or SUV, additional highway lanes. greater decrease in the region’s carbon footprint. This is true because additional

Transit – A Green Transportation Choice Transportation – A Green Transit account for 30% of all regional emissions. The public transit reduces congestion and supports Since public transit in Chicago saves more region’s public transit system, which produces compact development. In 2008, the Chicago transit service generally leads to fewer cars carbon than it produces, a primary goal of RTA, 1.2 million metric tons of carbon annually, region’s public transit system saved nearly 6.7 on the road, reduced congestion and more CTA, Metra and Pace is to increase the ratio of accounts for only 3% of transportation emissions million metric tons of carbon from being emitted compact land development. – or less than 1% of overall regional emissions. into the atmosphere. That is equal to 5.5 times

The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan focuses on the following three primary strategies that Transit saves 6.7 million metric tons of carbon each year can increase the greenhouse gas emissions reduction benefits of transit in the region: What does that equal? GROW RIDERSHIP AND MARKET SHARE In 2010, over 633 million transit rides were taken in the Chicago region. Each weekday, 62% of all work trips to the Chicago central business district are made on CTA, Metra and Pace. Expanding the use of innovative technologies to enhance the customer experience, upgrading transit system with state-of-the-art vehicles and facilities and strategically enhancing and expanding transit service across the region will attract new transit customers OR and entice existing customers to ride the system more frequently.

PROMOTE TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT Transit-oriented developments (TOD), characterized as high-quality, compact, 1,000,000 36,500 railcars = 25,000 cars = 1,000 railcars mixed-use, pedestrian-oriented development around transit stations, increase transit cars annually of coal OR OR ridership and make communities more livable. TODs help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting bicycle, walking and transit trips, as well as shortening trips for those who choose to drive. Further coordination, education and outreach between the transit agencies and the public and private sectors can help further grow TOD in the Chicago region.

IMPROVE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY OR Between 2005 and 2008, the carbon efficiency of transit service improved 5%. This improvement was a result of increased fuel efficiency and energy conservation measures. Increasing vehicle fuel economy, investing in technologies that conserve electricity and utilizing renewable energy can allow the transit agencies to emit fewer carbon emissions per vehicle and passenger mile.

= 20,000 barrels 15,581,000 Annual energy to power barrels of oil = 10,000 homes 580,100 homes 7 8

Growing Ridership and Market Share The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan

Between 2005 and 2008, transit ridership increased UPGRADE INFRASTRUCTURE 8% in the Chicago region. In order to further grow Upgrading the region’s existing transit infrastructure ridership and capture a larger share of the travel with state-of-the-art vehicles and facilities can help market, the transit system must continue to grow market share by making transit a more attrac-

Growing Ridership and Market Share Growing operate in a safe, reliable and cost-effective tive option for commuters. CTA is purchasing 706 manner. The implementation of new technologies, new rail cars that will provide a smoother, more upgrades to transit infrastructure and strategic comfortable ride due to a new power system and service enhancements will attract new customers regenerative braking. In conjunction with a project

to the region’s transit system and encourage to replace 22 bridges on the Union Pacific North The new CTA Morgan Station and Metra’s planned rehab of the Ravenwood Station will help grow transit ridership. existing customers to ride more frequently. Line, Metra is rehabilitating the existing in order to provide modern station amenities ENHANCE SERVICE IMPLEMENT TECHNOLOGY at one of its highest ridership stations. Pace is The implementation of strategic service enhance- Longer term extension and expansion projects The implementation of innovative technologies upgrading bus stops across the region, making ments can help grow ridership and market will bring enhanced transit service to underserved for transit can attract new riders to the system by them more inviting and accessible by adding share by making transit a more viable option parts of the region. CTA’s proposed Red, Orange enhancing the customer experience. RTA, through concrete pads, installing shelters, pedestrian for customers. In November 2011, Pace initiated and Yellow Line extension projects would enhancements to its multi-modal trip planning walkways and other passenger amenities. the region’s first bus-on-shoulder operations on expand CTA’s rail system to parts of the region website, goroo.com, provides customers with a I-55, between the southwest suburbs, the Illinois that lack rapid transit service. Metra’s proposed user-friendly one-stop shop for regional travel infor- Building new rail stations and bus facilities makes Medical District and Downtown Chicago. Union Pacific West and Northwest capacity mation, including trip plans, schedules, travel alerts transit more accessible and can attract new riders. Allowing buses to bypass highway congestion in expansion projects would allow more express and real-time transit arrival information. Building off In 2011, Metra opened the 35th St. / “Lou” Jones Sta- regular traffic lanes by riding on designated trains and additional reverse commute trains to the success of CTA BusTracker, CTA TrainTracker and tion on the Rock Island District Line and CTA began shoulders provides riders with travel time savings operate, making the city-to-suburb commute easier Pace’s WebWatch, Metra will launch a web-based, real- construction of new stations at Morgan (Green/Pink and greater reliability. The implementation of Bus for customers along those lines. The development time train arrival system in 2012. In addition, a new Lines) and Skokie-Oakton (Yellow Line). Planning Rapid Transit on Jeffrey Boulevard, the Northwest of Pace’s Arterial Rapid Transit along Milwaukee regional fare payment system is expected to be imple- and engineering work for new infill Metra stations Tollway (I-90) and in other corridors will provide and Dempster Avenues would enhance bus service mented by 2015, allowing customers to pay their fares (Romeoville, Auburn Park and Peterson/Ridge) premium transit service in corridors that are along heavily traveled suburban corridors by using credit and debit cards on CTA, Metra and Pace. and new Pace park-n-ride facilities is underway. currently served by standard bus service. increasing bus speed and reducing travel times.

Initiatives: Grow Ridership and Market Share

Expand availability and dissemination of real- Expand Bus-on-Shoulder Program time information � � Implement Bus Rapid Transit and Arterial Rapid Modernize fare payment systems Transit projects � � Bring system to a State of Good Repair Implement transit capacity improvement and extension projects � � Real-time information allows Build infill rail stations customers to know when their bus Expand operating coverage area based on � or train will arrive. Develop new regional park & ride facilities market demand � � 9 10

Promote Transit-Oriented Development The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan

The Chicago region’s comprehensive plan, GoTo the transit agencies, CMAP, IDOT, non-profits 2040, emphasizes the need to develop commu- and municipal staff has developed a series of nities that are compact, mixed-use and walkable, educational materials on different aspects of TOD. in accordance with the six livability principles Recent publications include reports on the eco- established by the federal Partnership for Sustain- nomic and social benefits of TOD, zoning around Promote Transit-Oriented Development Transit-Oriented Promote able Communities in 2009. Livable communities transit stations and strategies for improving access Transit-oriented development improves the livability of communities throughout the Chicago region. around transit – also known as Transit-Oriented and parking in TODs. Future educational materials, including an update to Pace’s Development Guide- Development (TOD) – help reduce greenhouse agencies and CMAP should focus their technical and a new plaza was built next to the station, lines that will support the planned Arterial Rapid gas emissions by making bicycling, walking and assistance efforts on working with municipalities improving the customer experience and making Transit (ART) program, will enhance the education- riding transit more viable, as well as shorten trips to implement strategies to make their communities the area more pedestrian-friendly. The Lake Cook al opportunities for communities throughout the for those who choose to drive. By producing more livable. The continuation of the strong part- Transportation Management Association, a public- region to develop in a transit-supportive manner. educational materials, providing technical assis- nership between the transit agencies and CMAP will private partnership, works with local business, tance to local governments and engaging the help leverage the resources needed to promote Pace and Metra to fund bus service between development community, the transit agencies PROVIDE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TOD and livability to all communities in the region. suburban Metra stations and office buildings, can help grow TOD implementation across allowing hundreds of workers to commute by RTA and CMAP currently administer programs the region, further reducing carbon emissions. ENGAGE THE PRIVATE SECTOR transit to their jobs along Lake-Cook Road. that provide resources to communities interested In recent years the transit agencies have partnered in better integrating economic development, land PRODUCE EDUCATIONAL with the private sector to address State of Good Pursuing new public-private partnerships can MATERIALS use and transportation. RTA’s Community Planning Repair issues, promote transit-oriented development help the transit agencies leverage additional fund- The RTA-led Regional Transit-Oriented Develop- Program has provided funding and technical assis- and grow transit ridership. RTA currently engages ing sources to help implement TOD and support ment Working Group, with representatives from tance to almost 100 municipalities for developing the private sector as part of its TOD planning and livable communities across the region. Enhancing plans to transform areas around rail stations and implementation efforts. Each TOD plan funded by relationships with the private sector, including the bus stops into vibrant, walkable, mixed-use RTA includes a review meeting with developers and development and lending communities, would districts featuring higher-density residential real estate professionals to vet the plan. RTA also co- provide the transit agencies with the opportunity Livability Principles buildings and enhanced commercial development. ordinates developer recruitment activities as part of to further educate the private sector on the Through RTA’s TOD Implementation Technical Provide more transportation choices its TOD implementation efforts. Working with Apple, benefits of TOD, as well as help the transit agencies Assistance Program, communities with existing � Inc., the CTA’s North/Clybourn Station was renovated learn about the barriers to TOD implementation. Promote equitable, affordable housing TOD plans can receive assistance to update � their zoning ordinances and codes, as well Enhance economic competitiveness as streamline their TOD entitlement processes. � Support existing communities Initiatives: Promote Transit-Oriented Development � CMAP, through its Local Technical Assistance Coordinate and leverage federal policies and investment Program, works with communities to address � Expand TOD education outreach to development Work with municipalities to streamline TOD local issues at the intersection of transportation, and lending community entitlement processes � � Value communities and neighborhoods land use, and housing, including the natural Develop new TOD education materials Work with CMAP on implementing the Local � environment, economic growth, and commu- Technical Assistance Program � Update Pace’s Development Guidelines � www.sustainablecommunities.gov nity development. Moving forward, the transit Enhance coordination with other agencies to � Work with municipalities to update zoning ordinances leverage resources and codes � � 11 12

Improving Operational Efficiencies Improving Operational Efficiencies

Between 2005 and 2008, the transit agencies INCREASE FUEL ECONOMY showed marked improvement in their carbon The use of innovative engine technologies can efficiency. While transit service grew 6% and allow buses, trains and support vehicles to burn transit ridership increased 8% during the four less fuel and produce fewer carbon emissions Improving Operational Efficiencies Improving year period, carbon emissions produced by while providing the same level of service. CTA transit rose only 2%. The region realized currently operates a fleet of 228 hybrid electric up to 5% gains in carbon efficiency due to buses and uses compressed natural gas (CNG) Solar-powered Pace bus shelters and hybrid buses helped improve the carbon efficiency of the transit agencies by nearly 5% between 2005 and 2008. increased transit ridership and more efficient vehicles for many support functions. Recently, transit vehicles. Further increases in vehicle Pace introduced two new hybrid fixed-route buses how to optimize the electricity needed to operate UTILIZE RENEWABLE ENERGY fuel economy, investments in technologies that and ten hybrid paratransit vehicles into service. the L and the Metra Electric District. The use of renewable energy at facilities can conserve electricity and natural gas, as well as reduce carbon emissions produced by the transit the expansion of renewable energy utilization The transit agencies plan to further increase the fuel- Transit facilities also offer opportunities to agencies. CTA recently completed a 12.7 kilowatt will allow the transit agencies to operate more efficiency of their fleets by expanding vehicle idle conserve electricity and natural gas. Pace’s solar panel installation at the 95th/Dan Ryan sta- efficiently and reduce normalized carbon reduction technologies and training efforts, as well as new headquarters was constructed using tion to supplement the station lighting, reducing emissions in the future. piloting additional innovative technologies such as many green building best practices including reliance on electricity generated from fossil fuels. electric buses and GenSet locomotives.1 Metra was the installation of energy efficient lighting Pace has begun a program to install hundreds of recently awarded a series of grants to increase the and HVAC systems. The transit agencies can solar-powered bus shelters across the region fuel efficiency of its locomotives by repowering and also retrofit their facilities with energy-efficient over the next few years. Opportunities to power retrofitting engines with fuel-efficient components. lighting, elevators, escalators and building vehicles and facilities using renewable energy will control systems as opportunities arise, and continue to be evaluated by the transit agencies CONSERVE ELECTRICITY AND expand the use of power-saving features on in the future as technologies are developed. Ad- NATURAL GAS computers and others electronics where ditionally, the ability to generate renewable energy The implementation of energy-efficient technologies feasible. The transit agencies plan to jointly and participate in the renewable energy credit can help reduce emissions from electricity used purchase energy management software to marketplace could improve the environmental to power the region’s rail systems. CTA’s new track energy consumption and identify 5000-series rail cars are equipped with energy- sustainability of the transit agencies, as well as future conservation opportunities. efficient AC-power motors and utilize regenerative potentially provide them new sources of revenue. braking, reducing the amount of electricity needed to operate each train. Metra plans to expand the implementation of high-efficiency LED train signals, where feasible, to reduce Initiatives: Improve Operational Efficiency electricity use. Additional conservation can be Pilot CTA electric buses Install energy-efficient lighting and control systems, and achieved through Metra’s planned purchase of retrofit lighting fixtures, where applicable � Study and pilot more fuel and emissions-efficient � new Metra Electric District vehicles equipped with locomotives and buses Improve energy efficiency of elevators and escalators � regenerative braking and conducting studies on during modernization projects Expand implementation of LED train signals, � where feasible Implement power-saving features on computers and � 1 other electronics, where applicable GenSet locomotives replace a single large diesel engine generator with two or three smaller units. Coupled with engine con- Conduct study on optimizing electricity consumption � trol technology, GenSet locomotives allow for starting and stopping of one or more of the engines as their power is needed. of heavy rail and existing electric commuter rail Study benefits and costs of potential opportunities for � the generation and use of renewable energy or the � Install energy building management systems and purchase of renewable energy credits energy management software � 13 14

Greening the Transit System The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan

Transit’s role in improving the environmental CONSERVE WATER RECYCLE USE GREEN MATERIALS sustainability of the Chicago region goes beyond Stormwater management is an effective strategy Transit system operations and maintenance consume In recent years, the transit agencies have taken considerable amounts of material resources. The advantage of the growing market of green products, Greening the Transit System the Transit Greening reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Transit’s to reduce transit’s impact on the region’s water consumption of natural resources can have an resources. Improvements made to the roof transit agencies follow sustainability best practices including those made from recycled materials. impact on air and water pollution, public health at CTA’s North Park Garage funnel stormwater in many aspects of their operations, including recy- Most transit maps, schedules, fare cards, tickets and quality of life for the region’s residents. directly into the Chicago River and reduce cling waste products, utilizing recycled materials and promotional materials in the region are Reducing diesel emissions, conserving water pollutants entering the river. Future implemen- and conserving materials through efficiencies. printed on recycled content paper. CTA has consumption and using materials responsibly can tation of stormwater management techniques, CTA, Metra and replaced thousands of wooden rail ties with ones help the transit agencies continue to be good stew- such as permeable pavement and rainwater Pace recycle made from recycled plastic. Revising design and ards of the Chicago region’s natural environment. harvesting at applicable new and existing transit many of the waste construction guidelines to incorporate additional facilities could further reduce runoff and products associated sustainability best practices, as well as the REDUCE DIESEL EMISSIONS preserve the quality of the region’s waterways. with transit opera- development of a regional framework for further Limiting diesel emissions can help lower the tions and maintenance, incorporating sustainability into procurement risk of respiratory ailments for the region’s More efficient use of potable water could also limit including tires, engine specifications and processes, could encourage residents. The transit agencies currently use the impact that transit has on the region’s water oil, antifreeze, lead-acid the transit agencies and potential vendors to ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel to power their buses resources. CTA, Metra and Pace currently use water batteries and railroad ties. consider the environmental impacts of products and trains and have plans to install diesel reclamation systems that recycle up to 85% of the The agencies also recycle and services. The transit agencies could then particulate filters on over 400 more buses water used for washing buses and trains at many of office waste and have evaluate the life-cycle costs of green products as Metra has installed high-efficiency air filters their yards and garages. Improving the efficiency instituted scrap metal they come to market, and pilot those that have on its entire diesel fleet to stop soot and other of vehicle wash systems and retrofitting water recovery programs. positive social, economic and financial benefits. air pollutants from entering the train. fixtures during facility upgrade projects could help reduce potable water consumption. The installation Light bulb crusher used to process old bulbs into recyclable glass fragments. With the help of a federal grant, RTA, CTA and Pace of additional water meters and building manage- will work to optimize the region’s traffic signal ment systems would allow the transit agencies to 1 systems and expand transit signal priority in doz- better manage their water consumption. Initiatives: Green the Transit System ens of CTA and Pace corridors. Metra will reduce A green roof atop CTA’s headquarters building conserves energy Install diesel particulate filters on CTA and Pace buses Retrofit water fixtures at applicable facilities locomotive idling by equipping twenty-four loco- and reduces stormwater runoff. when upgrades are made motives with automatic engine start/stop controls � Optimize regional traffic signal system � Revise design and construction guidelines for � using a federal emissions reduction grant, and Expand Transit Signal Priority transit facilities. � plans to implement this technology on its entire � Install AESS on all Metra locomotives Develop a framework for incorporating fleet in the future. Future pilots of diesel exhaust � sustainability into the procurement specifications Continue compliance with anti-idling laws and � after-treatment technologies for buses and locomo- policies for revenue and non-revenue fleet for agency departments � Perform cost and life-cycle analysis to determine tives could help further reduce diesel emissions Pilot exhaust after-treatment technologies on diesel whether to expand use of environmentally- Metra locomotive equipped with Automatic Engine Start/Stop controls. locomotives � from transit and improve regional air quality. � friendly materials Install water building management systems and Pilot new rail and road materials with right of way improve metering of water usage � partners where appropriate � 1 Transit signal priority is a technology that gives buses a little Implement stormwater management initiatives at Expand use of green cleaning products where extra green time or a little less red time at traffic signals. applicable new and existing sites � appropriate � Improve efficiency of vehicle wash systems Increase use of digital processing and filing � � 16 The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan maintenance facilities could cause damage to could cause damage maintenance facilities Climate change transit and equipment. vehicles and operating transit increase could potentially concerns and safety raise maintenance costs, productivity. employee agency lower impacts of climate projected the for prepare To system, transit region’s on the Chicago change to develop should continue agencies the transit the risk of serviceand implement plans to lower recently CTA disruptions change. due to climate the agency that will allow grant a federal received to identify and define an approach to develop change climate implementation plans for adaptation strategies for its assets and operations. change of climate The integration adaptation with asset management is a strategy that can help the sustain long-term ridership agencies transit transit financially environmentally, and remain growth sustainable. and socially -

trains. Storms with strong winds could cause trees, Storms winds could cause trees, with strong trains. rail or near, lines and other debris on, to fall power snowfalls Heavy leading to service delays. lines, to become yards rail and could cause roadways limit- to freeze, switches as rail as well impassable, service. and rail bus ing the ability to operate to also likely are change of climate The effects as they customersimpact transit and employees, of the conditions at many subject to weather are stations and maintenance rail bus stops, region’s precipitation heat and heavy Extreme facilities. expe could impact the quality of the customer Hot health and safety. rience people’s and affect and traveling for waiting can make temperatures could onand buses and trains uncomfortable, affect outdoor construction and maintenance the impact Heavy precipitation could workers. customersability to access bus stops for at stations and and flooding stations, and rail

change, to ensure the future viability of their the future to ensure change, includingAgencies and assets. operations transit New York Authority York Transportation Metropolitan New and New JerseyYork of New Authority and Port anticipated conducted assessments of the have and identified change impacts of climate potentially assets. vulnerable that will most effects change The climate include and Pace Metra impact CTA, likely precipitation increased hotter temperatures, and more storms. severe frequent can Extended periods of high temperatures pavement and roadway tracks cause railroad catenary and overhead to loseto buckle wires resulting flooding Severe tension and stretch. impact bus could precipitation increased from and rights-of- and rail servicerail as roadways way could become buses and for impassable

The increased 1 AdaptingChanging to a Climate The current elevated level of carbon emissions of carbon emissions The current level elevated that significant means atmosphere in the Earth’s While inevitable. are to our climate changes aggressive and regional global action to reduce the severity of lower may carbon emissions events weather recent impacts, change climate consistent with scientific and incidents are change that the impacts of climate projections the planet. affecting already are incidents have impacted transit agencies across agencies transit impacted incidents have the country and region. within the Chicago the impacts of a changing If left unaddressed, Metra climate could impact the ability of CTA, and reliable safe to provide to continue and Pace better understand potential the To transit. CTA, on their systems, change impacts of climate operators joining other transit are and Pace Metra to adapt to climate measures in taking proactive frequency and severity of these events and and and severity of these events frequency

Federal Transit Administration; “Flooded Bus Barns and Buckled Rails: Public Transportation and Climate Change Adaptation”, August 2011. August Adaptation”, and Climate Change Transportation Public “Flooded Bus Barns and Buckled Rails: Administration; Transit Federal

1 Adapting to a Changing Climate Changing a to Adapting 15 17 18

Transit - An Essential Green The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan Investment Strategy

As an essential part of making the Chicago region DEVELOP TRANSIT-ORIENTED INCREASE FUNDING RIDE TRANSIT more sustainable, the region’s transit system COMMUNITIES Despite transit’s important role in reducing The RTA system provided more than 648 million reduces regional greenhouse gas emissions, grows There is a growing trend in the region for greenhouse gas emissions, funding for the rides in 2011, the system’s highest ridership in the region’s economy and provides mobility locating housing near transit. The demand Chicago region’s transit system is inadequate. 20 years. Growing ridership shows that more and options for the region’s residents, employees and for transit-oriented housing is expected to rise CTA, Metra and Pace currently have a combined more people in the Chicago region value the Transit: An Essential Green Investment Strategy An Essential Green Transit: visitors. The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan significantly in the next decade, especially as backlog of over $10 billion in capital projects, convenience, savings and environmental benefits reaffirms the commitment of RTA, CTA, Metra and the types of households continue to change. which is anticipated to grow to $14 billion by that CTA, Metra and Pace provide. Upgrading Pace to maximizing the environmental benefits Improving existing communities around transit 2019. Further disinvestment in the region’s the region’s transit infrastructure, implementing of transit and improving the sustainablity of the and building new transit-oriented developments transit system will lead to lower ridership new technologies and enhancing transit service Chicago region. The transit agencies will continue throughout the Chicago region will lead to higher and market share as transit infrastructure will attract new customers to the RTA system to promote transit as a green transportation transit ridership and market share. continues to deteriorate and maintenance costs and help ridership continue to grow. choice, educate agency staff on environmental escalate, negatively impacting the quality and best practices, monitor the region’s environmental While RTA, CTA, Metra, Pace and CMAP are quantity of transit service provided. As transit ridership continues to grow, fewer progress and pursue recognition for transit’s great sources for technical assistance, the cars will travel on the region’s roads and roadway environmental achievements. implementation and construction of transit- While the transit agencies have been successful congestion will be reduced. Choosing transit oriented communities occurs at the local level. in recent years obtaining federal and state grants over driving helps reduce the region’s carbon However, transit’s potential as a regional greenhouse Municipal officials, developers and the private to fund green initiatives, additional funding is footprint. All residents, employees and visitors gas emissions reduction strategy cannot be achieved sector must continue to make land use decisions needed to implement the strategies included in are encouraged to continue making the Chicago by the transit agencies alone. RTA, CTA, Metra and that follow the principles of livability and this plan. Our elected officials should continue region more environmentally sustainable by Pace will need support from stakeholders across the invest in ways that continue to support public to support increased funding for public transpor- riding transit whenever possible. region and throughout the state, including elected transit. By doing so, transit ridership and mar- tation and environmental initiatives at the federal officials, advocacy groups, the private sector and ket share will continue to grow, increasing the and state levels that will allow the region’s transit the general public. Growing transit’s contribution likelihood of achieving significant greenhouse system to improve its emissions efficiency and to achieving the state and regional greenhouse gas gas emissions reductions. become more environmentally sustainable. emission reduction targets is only feasible if com- munities continue to develop in a transit supportive manner, funding for transit increases and customers continue to ride our buses, trains and vans. 20 The Chicago Regional Green Transit Plan Pace Suburban Bus @pacesuburbanbus Pace Suburban Bus www.pacebus.com

@Metra

www.metrarail.com Farr Associates of Transportation Illinois Department Metra Mayors Caucus Metropolitan Pace Sierra Club (Illinois Chapter) Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Transit Chicago www.transitchicago.com Acknowledgements

Active Transportation Alliance Active Transportation of Transportation Chicago Department Agency for Planning Chicago Metropolitan Authority Chicago Transit Delta Institute Law and Policy Center Environmental @rtachicago RTA RTA would like to acknowledge the contributions of the following organizations: the contributions like to acknowledge would RTA Regional Transportation Authority - NE Illinois) Transportation Regional www.rtachicago.com (

Expand use of green cleaning products where appropriate where cleaning products Expand use of green and filing use of digital processing Increase Educate agency staff on sustainability best practices Improve efficiency of vehicle wash systems Improve Revise design and construction guidelines for transit facilities. Develop a framework for incorporating sustainability into the Perform cost and life-cycle analysis to determine whether to materials with right of way partnersPilot new rail and road Further pursue recognition for implementing best practices, for implementing best practices, Further pursue recognition Retrofit water fixtures at applicable facilities when upgrades water fixtures Retrofit ment entitlement TOD with municipalities to streamline Work with CMAP on implementing the Local Technical Work with other agencies to leverage Enhance coordination where applicablewhere are made are procurement specifications for agency departments procurement materialsexpand use of environmentally-friendly appropriate where Install energy-efficient lighting and control systems, andInstall energy-efficient lighting and control computers and other on Implement power-saving features for theStudy benefits and costs of potential opportunities Improve energy efficiency of elevators and escalators energy of elevators and escalators efficiency Improve Assistance Program resources processes processes Expand Bus-on-Shoulder Program Expand Bus-on-Shoulder projects Rapid Transit and Arterial Transit Implement Bus Rapid Implement transit capacity improvement and extension improvement Implement transit capacity based on market demand area Expand operating coverage retrofit lighting fixtures, where applicable where lighting fixtures, retrofit applicable where electronics, energy or the purchasegeneration and use of renewable of energy credits renewable during modernization projects projects

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �

Implement stormwater management initiatives at Implement stormwater management initiatives at Study and pilot more fuel and emissions-efficient fuel and emissions-efficient Study and pilot more Pilot exhaust after-treatment technologies on diesel technologies on diesel Pilot exhaust after-treatment Optimize regional traffic signal system Optimize regional Priority Signal Expand Transit Install AESS on all Metra locomotives Continue compliance with anti-idling laws and policies where feasible where Expand implementation of LED train signals, ofConduct study on optimizing electricity consumption Develop new TOD education materials Update Pace’s Development Guidelines Expandtime information availability and dissemination of real- Modernize payment systems fare of Good Repair Bring system to a State Build infill rail stations park & ride facilities Develop new regional Expand promotion and marketing of transit as an and marketing of transit as an Expand promotion energy and water audits Conduct regular Install water building management systems and improve Install water building management systems and improve Install energy management systems and energy building Work with municipalities to update zoning ordinances and with municipalities to update zoning ordinances Work Install diesel particulate filters on CTA and Pace buses Install diesel particulate filters on CTA Pilot CTA electric buses Pilot CTA and development and to Expand TOD education outreach environmentally friendly mode of transportation environmentally metering of water usage management software management software codes lending community locomotives and buses locomotives for revenue and non-revenue fleet and non-revenue for revenue heavy rail and existing electric commuter rail heavy applicable new and existing sites

�

Other � � � � � � � � � � � Green the Transit System � � � � � � Efficiency Improve Operational Promote Transit-Oriented Development Promote � Grow Ridership and Market Share and Market Grow Ridership � � � � � Summary of Initiatives Summary of Initiatives of Summary 19