Hi friends,

I hope you're all doing ok. I know, it's hard to believe we're still here – it's chaos and it's scary. But I have so much faith and hope in the people of Chicago to press on and lift each other up and learn and make a better future. We've proven ourselves to be resilient, and that doesn't stop now.

You've proven yourselves to be so generous with your love and your support. I'm so grateful for each and every one of you who have signed this petition and shared why you did. I've read all of your comments and it's so moving how much you care.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I have some exciting news to share with you: I launched a new organization!

For months now, I've been working with three others to launch a new advocacy group centered around our streets and how we use them. It's called Better Streets Chicago. We strongly believe that for too long our streets have been geared towards cars instead of people, and in the midst of this pandemic that has become glaringly obvious as we clamor for space – many of us having to choose between risking exposure or taking to the street as we walk to the bus stop, pharmacy, grocery store, park (if it's even open) just to maintain distance.

There's just not enough space. Or is there?

Here's the secret: there's a ton of space in Chicago. We've just been irresponsible with it and have dedicated too much of it to storing and moving cars instead of making space for people. (and the effort to move more cars is always an aimless fight) This has resulted in massive pollution and massive inequities.

With this all in mind, I'm asking you to do me another favor... I know you already agree that there's not enough space for people – you did sign this petition – can you please send a letter to the mayor asking for more space?

My friends and I have made it super simple: 30 seconds and you're done, just enter your name, email and zip-code (address if you want), and then click send! Instantly it will be sent to the Mayor, CDOT, Department of Planning and Development, and the COVID Mobility Hotline, expressing just how important it is that Chicagoans be able to have the space they need to stop the spread.

They read these emails, it really matters.

Thank you, again, for all your support. I hope that our paths will cross one day, once this pandemic has settled. In the meantime, please reach out to me. I would love to talk to you and hear about your experience in this time, and talk about ways this city could better serve your transportation needs. You can find me on Twitter at @itskylelucas, or email me at kyle@betterstreetschicago.org.

With hope and love,

Kyle Lucas