Great post that made a lot of sense. Sad that so many of the region’s leaders cling to yesterday’s thinking and nothing ever really changes and nothing ever really improves. Yet, we continue to elect them. . .

Anyway, we absolutely must develop better modes of public transit if we hope to have long-term economic prosperity. I go into Chicago fairly frequently, yet haven’t voluntarily driven into downtown Chicago in years. I either drive to Cumberland and take the El or drive to Elgin and take Metra. Both methods are clean, stress-free and save on gas. And, I’ve ridden the light rail from downtown Minneapolis to the Mall of America and it’s clean, convenient and well run. PIttsburgh also has a rail system that’s well thought out and expanding as well.

A Metra line to Rockford would change this community for the better overnight. For our residents, access to Chicago jobs would improve, bringing with it new wealth to our community. For those east of us, we’d be able to attract new people to move here, spend their money here and invest here. Unfortunately, we don’t seem to possess the clout in Springfield to make this a reality anytime soon.

I hope you continue to press our public officials on this issue and educate your readers. Infranstructure is a huge issue that doesn’t get enough play. And, often when it does, it’s too little, too late.