My Commute

I am not sure if I have mentioned this before... however, the wonderful city of Chicago's Transit Authority (CTA) is having financial problems. The CTA is choosing to eliminate several bus routes as a way of saving money. I am not sure how cutting off half of its riders' routes to work is going to help them, but I also cannot even begin to understand the mindset of the CTA administration. The first of the cuts is set for Nov. 4th. I read the list of bus routes being cut and noticed a few routes that I use will be effected, but in general it wont change my life much. However, if the state does not step in and assist with the budget gap before Jan. there will be more cuts. (Also, each of the cuts is said to be accompanied with a fair increase.) These Jan. cuts are the ones that will dramatically alter my life. Just about every bus route that I use regularly, including my bus route to work, is being cut. These means I need to get my behind in gear to figure out how I am going to respond. My first response to figure out what I need to do to be able to bike throughout the winter. My second response is to write to the state to urge them to step in. The elimination of about 80 bus routes and almost 2,000 jobs is going to have a hugely negative affect on the city. With a city that is top five in the United States for its traffic congestion problems, you would think that they would want to improve and help with public transportation, but it appears that is not the case.

As I mentioned before, I am looking into what I will need for winter biking. I stopped by my bike shop to have tire liners put in (my final defense against flat tires) and quizzed the boys on what I will need for winter biking. My tires are now ready to go, I had fenders put on (they were half off!) and learned how to keep my chain lubed up - to prevent freezing. I was also given a list of water proof clothing that is highly recommended. I hope to acquire these items throughout the next few months as the temperature decreases. My future roommate has said she is willing to work out scheduling issues and share use of her car, but I cannot rely on this as my only means to get to work. I also would still be able to take the train, however, this requires me to add an hour (maybe more) to my commuting time. My 20 minute bike ride is much more appealing. I know this will not be good news for some of you, I am sorry for the increased worry. I am not sure though, if the CTA fairs increase to possibly $3+ a ride, if I will be able to afford to use public transportation as often as I do currently.