Mathias has right ideas on transportation

While gas prices have dropped slightly over the past few weeks, it is still painful to fill up at the pump, isn’t it? Watching those digital readouts topping $70, $80 and $90 is extra stress we don’t need. We need a better mass transportation system in the Chicago area and throughout Illinois.

Why are people sitting on clogged expressways burning thousands of gallons of gas when trains and buses can get them to the same spot? And now, a planning agency is proposing toll lanes, allowing people willing to pay more to go faster on less-impeded expressway lanes?

Is that the solution to our transportation woes? More mass transit efforts are what we need and that is why I support state Rep. Sid Mathias. He has fought to keep the mass transit we have already and to make it stronger.

For some area residents, mass transit is the only way they can get to and from work. We need to make sure people can get to their jobs to make a living for their families. Mass transit needs to be strong in our area.

Mathias has been a leader in getting North Central Metra service in our region. North Central train stations in Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Prairie View, Vernon Hills and Wheeling keep thousands of commuters off the roadways every work day. Mathias secured the funding to get a second track on the North Central line, helping to alleviate freight-train delays and other problems that can occur with only one track. He is also working to secure weekend and extended weekday service on the line. For individuals who need to drive, Mathias is a force behind the proposed northern extension of Illinois Route 53. Sid Mathias has, and will continue to fight for better transportation in our area.

Arnie and Sue Blake

Buffalo Grove