Elmhurst's 'Intransigence' On New Trolley Stops: Alderman

ELMHURST, IL – Elmhurst aldermen this week approved the trolley plan for the summer and winter. But one alderman said the city needs to add stops farther from downtown.

The program is adding a stop at York and Third streets and improving its technology to track boarding counts.

Alderman Jake Hill, who represents northside Ward 2, said he likely has used the trolley more than any other alderman. He goes with his children.

"It's an excellent way to travel between businesses in Elmhurst, but there are businesses all over Elmhurst, especially concentrated on York Road," Hill told the council. "I don't understand the intransigence to test new stops that not only serve other businesses along York, but direct even more consumers downtown."

Hill, who expressed his concerns with the program last month, said he appreciated the extra stop, but he said it added to the concentration of others downtown.

"I hope we can aim for a more inclusive trolley route that services more of Elmhurst," Hill said.

However, Alderwoman Noel Talluto, whose Ward 4 includes much of downtown, said the trolley should not turn into a public transportation system. The suburban Pace bus agency, she said, already provides that service.

"We really have to be cognizant of what the intention of this program is," she said.

Aldermen Chris Jensen and Emily Bastedo said they would like the city to consider adding further stops north and south during Rock the Block, a September downtown event.

Jensen represents northside Ward 3, while Bastedo is in southside Ward 6.

The City Council voted unanimously for the trolley plan. Aldermen Michael Honquest and Brian Cahill were absent.