HOUSE APPROVES SCHAKOWSKY REQUEST FOR KEY TRANSPORTATION PROJECT IN CHICAGO. $100,000 TO DEVELOP PLAN FOR WALKABLE EDGEWATER INITIATIVE INCLUDED IN TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATION BILL

$100,000 TO DEVELOP PLAN FOR "WALKABLE EDGEWATER INITIATIVE" INCLUDED IN TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATION BILL

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today announced that the House approved her funding request of a key transportation project in Chicago. Schakowsky said that $100,000 to begin to develop plans for the Walkable Edgewater Initiative was included in the Transportation Appropriations bill for FY 2001. The Senate has not acted on its version of the bill.

"This is a crucial project with environmental, social, and economic benefits to the residents of Edgewater. The federal government must do its part to ensure its completion and this is a significant step in that direction. Working closely with Alderman Mary Ann Smith and the City of Chicago, I know that we can get the job done," Schakowsky said.

Schakowsky added, "I want to commend Alderman Smith for her unwavering commitment to her constituents and to this vital initiative."

The Walkable Edgewater Initiative would improve the sustainability of the Edgewater community in Chicago, which has 60,700 residents, by developing a community-based plan to beautify the community and promote neighbor interaction. The project is expected to result in increased pedestrian activity and transit use and air quality improvements from decreased auto use. Local businesses would also benefit from the increased pedestrian traffic.

The Chicago Department of Transportation would work in partnership with two community organizations, the Association of Sheridan Condo-Coop Owners and the Edgewater Community Council, to develop the plan.