Empowering Future Urban Planners: Exploring Transportation Equity in North Lawndale

In the heart of Chicago's North Lawndale neighborhood, Equiticity, in partnership with the North Lawndale Community Coordinating Council, recently led an educational event with research students from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) to shed light on the issue of transportation equity and justice in urban communities. The event, which took UIC students on a tour of the 157 Ogden Bus Route, was about much more than just transportation—it centered the importance of systemic change, community engagement, and the pursuit of an equitable future for all.

The students began their tour at the MLK Legacy Apartments in North Lawndale. Here, they delved into the rich history of the neighborhood, explored local businesses, and engaged with the community. However, it was the tour of the Ogden Bus Route that truly broadened their horizons.

The importance of equitable transportation cannot be overstated. It affects every aspect of a person's life, from accessing employment opportunities to obtaining groceries. The history of the Ogden Avenue Corridor reflects this, as the bus route was discontinued nearly 15 years ago, disproportionately impacting residents of the west end. Thanks to the tireless advocacy of community activists and organizers, this lifeline has been reinstated.

The tour served as a profound lesson on transportation justice—with participants recognizing the importance of equal access to transportation and mobility opportunities. Students discovered not only the obstacles and challenges faced by many North Lawndale residents, but also the positive changes and resources Ogden Avenue has to offer.

Crucially, the event emphasized the need for community partnership in decisions affecting infrastructure and transportation. It underscored the importance of urban planning that prioritizes equity and social well-being.

As these students take their newfound knowledge into the world of urban planning, they carry with them a commitment to transportation justice. The journey through North Lawndale was a transformative experience that we hope will shape their future endeavors, ensuring that every community has a voice and equal access to the opportunities that mobility brings.