Shared streets, for many pedestrians and cyclists, were a real boon to some Chicago neighborhoods in the wake of the Covid 19 pandemic and the shutdown that ensued. The concept of shared streets prioritizes the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, above all, forcing vehicles to slow down and yield to them instead. When the 606 and Lakefront trails closed, many took to the sidewalks to exercise or roam around leisurely, posing a challenge to social distancing rules. Shared streets, as an answer to this problem, provided a wider space for different activities and for community members to engage in a safe manner.
As Americans continue to adjust through the pandemic, the city has also adopted measures to make the adjustment easier. One such measure is the selection of temporary shared streets. The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) conducted a survey to evaluate which feature people enjoyed the most about shared streets. The results showed Chicagoan’s enthusiasm for car-free travel the most as well as the chance to be outdoors and practice social distancing at the same time. Personal injury attorneys at Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C. agree that shared streets increase mobility with safety and social distancing in mind, therefore meeting a lot of the community’s multiple concerns and decreasing the likelihood of accidents or crashes to occur.
It is unclear whether or not Covid19 is ever going away. As it takes its toll on the nation and the economy, and on a molecular level, the mental health of individuals, many have conceded to the fact that the virus and the pandemic is here to stay. However, strategically implemented shared streets, give people more freedom to roam around and not be limited to crowded sidewalks. Shared streets enable the most vulnerable individuals on Chicago streets such as pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter users to enjoy more green space without fear of getting struck by an irresponsible motorist or contracting Covid19.