The City of Chicago - its livability

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Let's take a closer look. I also included links for further research.

RESPONSE:

1. Is the city livable? Why or why not?

The City of Chicago was rated 44 out of 100 in the world (see http://bwnt.businessweek.com/interactive_reports/livable_cities_worldwide/index.asp?sortCol=index_2007&sortOrder=DESC&pageNum=1&resultNum=100). What has the city done to receive this rating, and what initiative are in progress?

For example, at a recent meeting of the National Conference of Mayors, including Mayor Richard M. Daley of the City of Chicago, the mayors identified several common needs as important issues for the long-term viability of their cities:

? Alternative transportation modes.
? Actions to make the cities more aesthetically pleasing and energized or invigorated.
? Environmentally sound storm-water management methods.
? Safety from crime and from chemical and physical hazards.
? Reduction of new infrastructure construction and retention of open/green space through in-fill development. (http://www.tfhrc.gov/pubrds/mayjun00/liability.htm)

The Clinton-Gore administration has established five goals for livable communities:

1. Preserve green spaces that promote clean air and water; sustain wildlife; and provide people with places to walk, play, and relax. Chicago has received numerous awards for its landscaping program, including first place in the 2003 "Nations in Bloom" competition.(see http://www.istc.illinois.edu/main_sections/info_services/library_docs/other_pubs/GreeningChicago.pdf)
2. Ease traffic congestion by improving road planning, strengthening existing transportation systems, and expanding use of alternative transportation as appropriate for each community and its greater region. The City of Chicago introduced bike initiative, and biking lanes and trails - see more below)
3. Restore a sense of community by fostering citizen and private sector participation in local planning, including the placement of schools, public facilities, and transportation systems and facilities.
4. Promote collaboration among neighboring communities- cities, suburbs, or rural areas - to develop regional growth strategies and address common issues such as crime and safety as part of a larger injury prevention and healthy living agenda.
5. Enhance economic ...