Center for Neighborhood Technology on Division/Ashland development

July 25, 2011

Dear Alderman Moreno:

I am writing in regard to the potential real estate development at the intersection o Division Street and Ashland and Milwaukee Avenues. This location is already a public transportation hub due to the convergence of bus traffic and the Blue Line el. THe closing of the Pizza Hut on that site presents a rare opportunity to build on these assets. We urge you to consider the many benefits of transit-oriented deelopment (TOD) when you evaluate any new building proposal at this prominent corner.

One of the Chicago Climate Action Plan's primary strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emmissions is to promote investments that prioritize TOD. Mayor Emmanuel's administration has endorsed the TOD concept as well. Mixed use developments that support a mix of residential, retail and business uses will serve the needs of the surrounding local population, but residents also need to be encouraged to make the smarter transportation choice of walking or biking to these locales. Developments with expensive parking lots and drive-through facilities are not compatible with this goal.

In addition, reducing automobile congestion through TOD has numerous fringe benefits beyond reducing greenhouse gas production. Transit oriented development has a multiplier effect that fosters economic and community development. It's a win-win-win: creating jobs, reducing pollution and enabling households to save on travel costs.

We know you are supportive of economic development as well as committed to environmental preservation. Transit oriented development can sere both those goals. Please don't hesitate to contact us at CNT if there is any information we can provde for you as you evaluate proposals for this site.

Sincerely yours,
Jacky Grimshaw
Vice President of Policy, CNT
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