CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago's downtown has undergone significant changes since the pandemic, but when it comes to traffic, commuters are finding it as tough as it’s ever been to get in and around the city.
“Now that people have come back to the office, whether it’s hybrid or full time, it’s there,” said WBBM traffic anchor Neil Fiorito. “The traffic is definitely back, if not worse than before. I see it every day.”
Fiorito has a front row seat to the commuting chaos from the WBBM Traffic Center. He said more and more drivers heading in for work isn’t the only thing that’s changed in the last few years.
“Coming into the city, a lot of times, is much worse than going on the outbound side of whatever expressway you take,” he said. “There’s definitely a lot more of our people coming into the downtown area.”
Fiorito said it’s a “daily occurrence” to see drivers paying attention to their phones, as well as more people who choose to illegally drive on the shoulder.
Not everyone, though, ends up behind the wheel for their commute.
“In the city of Chicago, a lot of people take the bus and the train,” said David Poe, with the Active Transportation Alliance (ATA). “CTA has reduced service dramatically.”
Poe said Chicago’s public transit system needs serious help.
The ATA is among those urging the CTA to provide that help through more worker outreach and training. What Poe described as “infrequent service” has also driven many to rely on rideshare services — something Fiorito has taken note of, as well.
“They’re on the road with you, and that’s their job, so traffic is a lot worse now because of that,” he said.
His advice to commuters: Regardless of their transportation of choice, try their best to stay calm.
Remember to tune in to WBBM on Thursday night at 7 p.m. for an hour-long, in-depth discussion about the future of downtown.
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