Chicago Mourns Loss of Dedicated Urbanist Riley O’Neil, Champion of Safer Streets

A promising voice in Chicago’s urban development and transportation sector, Riley O’Neil, has died following a cycling accident on Friday, June 5th. O’Neil, known for his dedication to creating safer and more welcoming streets, was a key figure at the Chicago Department of Transportation. His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and a renewed commitment to the causes he championed.

A Friend’s Tribute

Brandon Bordenkircher, a friend and former colleague of O’Neil’s, shared a heartfelt remembrance of the late urbanist. Bordenkircher first met O’Neil at DePaul University in 2016 and was immediately struck by his kindness, sharp intellect, and deep understanding of urban systems and movement. “He understood cities, systems, and movement in a way that felt instinctive,” Bordenkircher wrote. “He didn’t just work hard – he loved the work and believed in providing more infrastructure for Chicago city cycling.”

O’Neil’s commitment extended beyond his professional role. He actively contributed to research, including a 2018 study on dockless bike share conducted with Bordenkircher for Streetsblog Chicago. His enthusiasm for urban development was infectious, particularly his joy when discussing advancements in cycling infrastructure.

Legacy in Infrastructure

The impact of O’Neil’s work is already visible in Chicago. Bike parking facilities he helped to install are now being named in his honor, a testament to his tangible contributions to the city’s infrastructure. His colleagues and friends emphasize that the most meaningful way to honor his memory is to continue the fight for streets that prioritize human life and safety over speed and convenience.

“Every serious or fatal traffic crash becomes that becomes part of the City’s statistics also represents a person, a family, and a community forever changed,” Bordenkircher noted, highlighting the personal stakes involved in urban planning and transportation policy.

The Call for Protected Bike Lanes

A central theme in O’Neil’s advocacy was the critical role of protected bike lanes in preventing traffic fatalities. Bordenkircher underscored that these lanes are not merely an amenity but essential infrastructure, proven to separate cyclists from vehicular traffic, reduce crashes, and create safer environments for all road users.

“The most meaningful way to honor Riley is to continue his work: Build safer streets, invest in protected bike lanes, and prioritize safety on Halsted through Bridgeport,” he urged. Bordenkircher implored city leaders to support protected bike lanes to prevent further tragedies.

Memorial Fund Established

In recognition of O’Neil’s dedication to sustainable urban development and safer cities, the Riley O’Neil Memorial Fund has been established at DePaul University. This fund will support initiatives at the Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development focused on these critical areas.

The article also serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting independent urbanism journalism. Streetsblog Chicago encourages readers who value their reporting and advocacy to consider making a donation.

Key facts

O’Neil’s passing highlights the human element behind urban planning decisions and the urgent need for continued investment in safe, people-centric transportation infrastructure. His work serves as a powerful reminder that every policy and street redesign has a profound impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

Source: Streetsblog Chicago, https://chi.streetsblog.org/2026/06/15/riley-oneils-friend-im-grateful-i-knew-him