Accessibility Isn’t Always Cheap: But It’s Always Worth It
Michele’s Story
Sometimes advocacy feels like a marathon. The days are long, and the process can be slow. But every now and then, a project comes to life that reminds me why I put in the work.
As one of the Directors of the Chicago Transit Authority Board, I recently had the immense pride of helping open four new, fully accessible stations on one of our oldest rail lines. For over a hundred years, these communities were inaccessible to so many like me who use a wheelchair. But now, thanks to a monumental $2 billion project, these neighborhoods are connected.
We’ve brought more than just elevators and escalators to these stations; we’ve brought a new reality of accessibility. Now, more people can commute to jobs, access healthcare, and connect with their community in ways they couldn’t before.
And the beauty of accessibility? Everyone benefits.
Michele
This victory is for the entire city, not just for those of us who use mobility aides – making travel easier for all of us. I couldn’t be more proud of this moment for Chicago, and it’s a powerful reminder that while the journey is long, the results are truly worth it.
