Let’s stop fearmongering about transit reform
The July 22 Daily Herald editorial "'11th Hour Surprise’: Land Use Provision in Transit Bill Needs More Study and Suburban Input” misrepresents the reasoning and process behind HB3438’s grant of development authority to the Northern Illinois Transit Authority.
Far from being quietly added at the last minute, HB3438 clearly authorizes NITA to develop land it already owns and, where appropriate, acquire nearby parcels to support transit-oriented development. Currently, agencies like CTA, Metra, and Pace are largely limited to operating commuter parking lots.
Transit-supportive development — replacing asphalt with housing, shops, and services near transit — is smart planning. It’s a proven way to boost ridership, reduce traffic, support local businesses, and generate long-term revenue to sustain transit — all while easing the burden on taxpayers.
The Herald further mischaracterizes the bill by echoing alarmist claims from the Suburban Mayors Coalition for Fair Transit, who suggest NITA will seize property and override local authority. In reality, HB3438 explicitly requires NITA to comply with municipal zoning, and any variances remain under local control.
If local leaders are truly concerned about what gets built near their transit stops, they should use the planning tools already at their disposal: create subarea plans, update zoning codes, specify height, density and setbacks, and strengthen design standards.
Northern Illinois transit reform has been years in the making. Suburban mayors deserve a voice — but not a last-minute veto rooted in fear or fiction.
HB3438 is a forward-looking, fair compromise. It respects local control and lays the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable public transit system. Let’s move past the scare tactics — and start planning for something better.
Matthew Hickey
Libertyville