Chicago's Pedestrian Scramble

Today was the first day people could legally cross a busy downtown Chicago intersection diagonally. At the intersection of State and Jackson Chicago has introduced a test pedestrian scramble that will allow pedestrians to cross the intersection in six ways, the cardinal four and the two diagonals. 

The pedestrian scramble is intended to reduce conflicts between turning vehicles and pedestrians by letting pedestrians get a head start as well as their own time on the road. For 35 seconds of every third light cycle pedestrians can cross in all directions. The experiment will run for several months to collect data and feedback before deciding if the scramble will become permanent and, perhaps, spread to other intersections in the city. 

Hiking the Fines for Bicyclists Breaking Traffic Laws

Chicago is taking action against bicyclists that break traffic laws and drivers and passengers that open their doors onto bicyclists by subjecting them to pay steeper fines. 

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced the fines would increase from $25 to a minimum of $50 and a maximum of $200 for bicyclists that violate traffic laws. Additionally, passengers and drivers that “door” a bicyclist would face a fine increase from $500 to $1,000. Fines for leaving a door open would double to $300.

Two-way Protected Bicycle Lanes on Dearborn Street, Credit: John Greenfield