Tinley Ranks Among Most Transit-Friendly Burbs

A recent university study placed high on the list of the 250 most transit-friendly communities across the state.

Based largely on the outstanding commuter amenities offered at the , the village has been ranked 20th on the list of most transit-friendly suburbs as determined by a DePaul University study.

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The university’s Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development report judged Tinley as having “the best station building and platforms,” ranking it No. 1 among 250 suburbs studied. The station grounds and parking ranked No. 3, placing Tinley Park’s entire downtown station area as best overall when both scores are combined.

“Among suburbs south of the city, however, Tinley Park stands out for both its cultural orientation toward commuter rail and its attention to detail in creating a superlative station environment,” the report stated.

Parking was described as another plus because of attractive monthly rates and excellent lighting. The report also lauded the train station’s retail and beverage options, pleasant waiting room and cleanliness.

“We are pleased that our train station continues to attract well-deserved recognition,” Mayor Ed Zabrocki said. “Because of our ongoing focus on transit-oriented development, I expect that we will see a dramatic increase in our amenities within the next 10 years.”

The report called the number of residents who walk or bike to work “impressive” compared to other south suburban communities, but Village officials expect that number to rise due to recent initiatives, including:

• The Legacy Code:  The Legacy Code, in combination with the , creates a future for Tinley Park that integrates the downtown and its surrounding environment into a walkable and transit-oriented neighborhood.

• : Approved in June by the Village Board, it sets the plan for development of bicycle and pedestrian facilities in Tinley Park over the next 20 years. A proposed street scape for Oak Park Avenue includes an off-street, multi-use pathway and on-street bike facilities, sidewalks, improved landscaping and lighting.

• Complete Streets Policy: This policy promotes the , as illustrated by the current resurfacing of a portion of 167th Avenue that will include stand-alone, striped bike lanes and shared parking/bike lanes.

• ” development, anticipated to break ground this fall, will enhance the downtown area’s walkability and provide 167 downtown, transit-oriented, residential units.

“The Chaddick Institute’s ranking is a confirmation that we’re heading in the right direction with our transit-oriented planning,” said Trustee Gregory Hannon, chairman of the Village Board’s Planning and Zoning Committee. “It gives us a benchmark to exceed, and we look forward to doing that over the next several years.”

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