Chicago’s initiative to ensure safety for cyclists and pedestrians on busy downtown streets has spotlighted delivery companies as frequent offenders. The city’s “Smart Streets” pilot program issues warnings and fines to those blocking bike and bus lanes. With cameras on city vehicles and Chicago Transit Authority buses, obstructions are recorded, and tickets are issued by the Department of Finance.
Since its inception about a year and a half ago, the program has led to tens of thousands of warnings and citations, accumulating nearly $2.6 million in fines, excluding late fees. Data from the city’s Department of Finance via an open records request reveals notable violators, such as Amazon Logistics, FedEx, and UPS, accruing $460,000 in fines for lane violations between November 2024 and early May 2026.
Smaller contractors, like Trans One Inc. and Northwest Express Inc., also faced fines totaling approximately $78,000. The Smart Streets initiative aims to decrease pedestrian and cyclist crashes and fatalities and streamline bus movement by reducing obstacles like parked vehicles.
Following the tragic passing of 3-year-old Lily Grace Shambrook, bike lane fines rose to $250. Shambrook was killed in a bike lane blocked by a ComEd truck. Apart from bike and bus lane infringements, Smart Streets also addresses violations like expired parking meters.
Amazon stated these infractions were tied to third-party delivery contractors who lease Amazon vehicles. Amazon collaborates with more than ten such companies employing over 1,000 drivers. By ensuring these companies uphold local traffic laws, Amazon aims to promote safe delivery practices.
“Safe and responsible delivery is a priority in every community we serve,” stated Amazon’s spokesperson, Leigh Anne Gullett.
FedEx and UPS expressed commitment to safety and compliance. Challenges arise due to limited parking in metropolitan areas. UPS manages this by consolidating packages and utilizing technology to optimize routes.
Enterprise Mobility handles violations by either providing the city with renter details or paying and recovering fines from renters. Chicago’s City Comptroller, Mike Belsky, emphasized the primary goal is improving public safety, not revenue generation.
“If we can get people to stop parking in bike lanes and have fewer bike accidents, that’s the result we want,” Belsky noted.
Data indicates Smart Streets is effectively reducing repeat offenses. Previously, 15.6% of violators would reoffend within 90 days. As of January 2026, this rate dropped to 7.6%. In addition to zero-fine warnings, approximately 60,000 warnings have been issued, including earlier grace period notices.
Overall, 16,802 tickets were issued for bus and bike lane violations, with estimates of up to 30,000 total violations. Significant unpaid tickets result in escalating fines and potential court action. Chicago’s Law Department targets major corporations initially for outstanding fines. Securing necessary licenses and permits requires settling these fines.
FedEx and others work with city officials to address violations, ensuring compliance with the program requirements. Tickets for bus lane and stop violations cost $90-$100, while bike lane infractions are priced at $250.
Initially launched in a smaller downtown zone in 2024, Smart Streets expanded in 2026, covering up to 1,300 bus stops and numerous miles of bus and bike lanes. Six camera-equipped buses are active, with 46 more planned, funded by state transit initiatives.
Focus remains on several bus routes, with hopes for further expansion post-construction. The pilot, ending in December, awaits City Council’s decision on its continuation.
CTA’s acting President Nora Leerhsen highlighted the program’s benefits on bus speeds and safety, especially for insufficiently equipped stops serving riders with disabilities.
“It is the difference between a trip that is possible and one that is not,” Leerhsen said.
Christina Whitehouse, founder of Bike Lane Uprising, advocates for awareness around bike lane obstructions’ dangers. Unexpected cyclists on roadways can lead to hazardous situations.
“Oftentimes, you’ll see companies obstructing bike lanes right in front of a ghost bike,” Whitehouse noted.