Public can give input on transportation issues

The Regional Transportation Authority is seeking public input on a proposal to ease traffic congestion in the Western suburbs.

A committee of local elected officials recently selected a preliminary plan for further study that includes elements such as expressway expansions, high-occupancy vehicle lanes, bus rapid transit, an extension of the RTA's blue line to Lombard and more.

Anyone who works or lives in the Western suburbs may attend an upcoming meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Lombard village hall, 255 E. Wilson Ave., and 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Addison village hall, 1 Friendship Plaza.

Written comments also will be accepted until March 31. Forms will be available at meetings and online. Comments may be mailed to: RTA, attn: Corridor Planning Studies, 175 W. Jackson St., Suite 1550, Chicago, IL 60604.

Those who need assistance to attend the meetings should call the RTA to make arrangements at (312) 913-3200 or (312) 913-3111 (TTY). For details, visit www.cook-dupagecorridor.com/getting_involved.html.