Lincoln Park alderperson pushes to limit vehicle idling

The inspiration: "When I was visiting Lincoln Elementary and Parker and Lincoln Park High School, I got pitched on this ordinance by students," Knudsen tells Axios.

• They used their parents idling outside school as an example of the problem, he says.

Between the lines: Knudsen's proposed ordinance carves out exemptions for emergency vehicles and days when temps are below freezing or over 80°.

• But he anticipates pushback on how to enforce it.

The intrigue: He sees potential in using CTA bus camera technology, now being piloted to cite bus lane double-parkers, as a way to spot idlers.

What's next: The proposal has been assigned to the Environmental Protection committee, where Knudsen serves as vice-chair under co-sponsor Ald. Maria Hadden.

• He hopes that committee will hold a hearing after the August break.