Chicago Council approves citywide expansion of Smart Streets enforcement

The Chicago City Council voted to expand the Smart Streets program citywide. The initiative uses cameras mounted on Chicago Transit Authority buses and other municipal vehicles to photograph cars and trucks blocking bike or bus lanes. Violators first receive a warning. A second offense results in a ticket and fine.

The city reported that 84% of drivers who received a warning during the pilot phase did not violate the rules again. The program has also been applied to street cleaning and parking meter enforcement. Since the pilot began, large delivery companies have paid approximately $460,000 in fines. The city has collected a total of $3 million in revenue from all violations.

Supporters project that annual revenue will rise to $12.8 million once the program becomes fully operational in January 2027. Ald. Andre Vasquez, who co-sponsored the measure, said the system helps correct behavior by holding drivers accountable. He noted that blocked lanes create dangerous conditions for cyclists, pedestrians, seniors, and parents with strollers.

Ald. Daniel LaSpata, the other co-sponsor, commutes by bicycle and stated that blocked bike lanes remain a persistent problem. A CTA spokesperson added that every illegally parked vehicle in a bus lane slows service by 13 seconds. The agency supports the program to improve transit efficiency.

The city outlined a phased rollout schedule. From January to June 2027, coverage will expand to Foster Avenue, California Avenue, and Pershing Road. From July to December 2028, the program will extend to Devon Avenue, Pulaski Road, and 51st Street. Full citywide coverage is anticipated by the end of 2028.

The city extended relief programs to help residents with vehicle-related debt. The Clear Path Program provides eligible low-income drivers with relief on specific types of violations. Since 2023, more than 106,000 residents have benefited from this assistance.