Chicago Is Considering A Toll System To Drive Downtown

Knee jerk reaction is that this is just another cash grab but the system might have its merits. 

Driving in downtown Chicago isn't as bad as some big cities but it definitely is something you want to avoid if you can. You'll want to avoid it even more if "congestion pricing" is passed in Chicago.

New York just announced it will begin "congestion pricing" in 2020 and London has been doing it for years now. It basically is a toll for any private cars that want to drive in downtown areas.

The city did a whole study on the idea a month ago. You can read the whole thing here.

Personally, I think it's a great idea. Now I'm not naive enough to think that the added revenue will be put to good use in Chicago. In fact, I know it won't. I'm just here for much less downtown traffic.

I'm sure provisions will be made for residents and handicapped drivers. I'm also sure that every alderman will figure out a way around the new "tax." Again, I just want to be able to walk around downtown without angry Audi drivers whizzing past me.

Public transportation has always been the best way to get around Chicago. If this gets implemented a whole new group of people will get familiar with the el system.