May 6, 2026 Faces of the RTP: Bailey Werner, bike and Metra commuter Bailey Werner’s commute from Chicago’s Near Northwest Side to Libertyville shows how stronger connections can expand access to opportunity across northeastern Illinois. Her trip combines biking to her local Metra station, riding commuter rail to Libertyville, and biking the final stretch to her office. For Bailey, maintaining transit as a cost effective alternative to driving is especially important, and increasing the availability of protected bike lanes would make the journey feel even safer. Her story illustrates how many transit users bring bikes and scooters aboard to solve the “last mile” challenge between stations and destinations. Bailey’s experience reflects how coordinated investments in biking and transit can create a more flexible, connected transportation system that helps improve mobility. “I bike, take the train, and bike again — it’s what makes my commute work” — Bailey Werner Article by Mike Sobczak Stay connected with your community Newsletter sign-up Opens in a modal Related news Click to read CMAP adopts long-range transportation plan to guide northeastern Illinois through 2050 Posted on Click to read CMAP adopts long-range transportation plan to guide northeastern Illinois through 2050 10.14.26 Click to read CMAP’s communications and engagement work earns industry recognition Posted on Click to read CMAP’s communications and engagement work earns industry recognition 10.07.26 Click to read Driving change: a transportation system for the next century Posted on Click to read Driving change: a transportation system for the next century 07.08.26 Click to read Share your feedback on northeastern Illinois' transportation future Posted on Click to read Share your feedback on northeastern Illinois' transportation future 06.12.26