The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) today launched the “Go Bronzeville” campaign, a new program that offers free resources, events, and support to Bronzeville residents to encourage them to walk, bicycle, take transit, and share car rides more often.

The focused travel demand management (TDM) program will run through the end of 2013, and is the first of five similar programs in different Chicago neighborhoods over the next four years.  TDM programs are used by communities across the country to educate and encourage their residents to consider using more active transportation or public transit during their daily commutes. 

“We selected Bronzeville as the first target area because there are so many exciting things happening for transportation in Bronzeville,” said CDOT Commissioner Gabe Klein.  “The upgraded Red Line will reopen soon; Divvy Bike Stations are making biking easier; and a new bike lane was recently added to 31st Street.  Go Bronzeville will help residents take advantage of these new travel options.”

The program is supported through a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation that supports surface transportation projects and other related efforts that help improve air quality improvements and reduce traffic congestion.

The Go Bronzeville program will invite 7,500 Bronzeville residents to order customized information packets containing their choices of maps, brochures, and helpful resources on transportation options for getting around Bronzeville, the City of Chicago and beyond. 

Two Go Bronzeville Outreach Ambassadors have been hired from the neighborhood to pack and deliver customized “Go Kits” full of transportation maps and resources.  The ambassadors will also meet with churches, block clubs, and other groups, and will organize bike rides and walks with support from neighborhood leaders and partner organizations to help residents get out and experience their community and the many available transportation options.

“Go Bronzeville will help community residents save money, be healthier, build community, and support local businesses,” said Ald. Pat Dowell (3rd).  I’m excited that Bronzeville is the first community to benefit from this outreach program.”

Go Bronzeville is working with the Bronzeville business community and other community-based organizations, including Bronzeville Bikes, the Center for New Horizons, the Bronzeville Area Residents and Commerce Council, and the Bronzeville Neighborhood Collaborative.

Chicagoans can find out more about the program at www.gobronzeville.org  on Facebook at facebook.com/gobronzevillego.

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