CMAP Media Tip Sheet

May 27, 2014

This tip sheet briefly summarizes newsworthy activities of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP). Reporters should contact Justine Reisinger (312-386-8802 and jreisinger@cmap.illinois.gov) or Hillary Green (312-386-8619 and hgreen@cmap.illinois.gov) for more information.

Freight and manufacturing continue to grow near O'Hare

The latest in a CMAP series on industry clusters, the new O'Hare Subregional Freight-Manufacturing Drill-Down Report examines how growth of these sectors is tied to assets that include unique proximity to rail, truck, and air transportation networks, as well as access to a highly trained workforce.   CMAP's analysis  builds on the freight-manufacturing nexus report and outlines collaborative, multijurisdictional initiatives that can improve the competitiveness of the cluster through workforce development, stormwater management, redevelopment planning, and better routing and infrastructure of truck freight. 

Federal proposals have significant implications for transportation in metropolitan Chicago

CMAP analyzed the text of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee MAP-21 Reauthorization Act, its six-year, $265 billion highway bill.  Compared to previous analysis of the Obama Administration's proposed GROW AMERICA Act, the MAP-21 Reauthorization Act suggests fewer policy changes and provides significantly less funding for surface transportation. Nevertheless, it would establish the first-ever national freight program, fund the Projects of National or Regional Significance program, and increase the emphasis on metropolitan planning organizations. CMAP's adopted reauthorization principles and federal agenda clarify the agency's position on federal transportation policy.

Increased energy efficiency can boost regional economic competitiveness

A new Policy Update series assesses the potential for increased energy efficiency in the region's manufacturing sector.  The first piece reviews current consumption patterns and uptake of energy efficiency improvements. Energy is a cost factor for some key industries in the region, and enhanced technology and improved incentives will be critical for their long-term competitiveness. Future entries will examine near-term energy infrastructure, policy, and market changes that may affect the manufacturing sector and opportunities to increase the adoption of energy-efficiency measures. 

Roundtable discussion to highlight implementation of GO TO 2040

CMAP's executive director Randy Blankenhorn will join Cook County board president Toni Preckwinkle, RTA acting executive director Leanne Redden, and Aurora Mayor Tom Weisner for the Metropolitan Planning Council's (MPC) "Progress on the GO TO 2040 Comprehensive Plan" roundtable on May 29 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at MPC offices (140 S. Dearborn, Suite 1400, Chicago). The discussion will focus on the progress of implementation, the role of regional partners, and a preview the GO TO 2040 comprehensive regional plan update before a public comment period that begins in June.

CMAP and RTA seek community-based projects eligible for planning assistance and grants

Planning assistance and grants for local projects across metropolitan Chicago are now available through the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) Community Planning Program and CMAP Local Technical Assistance Program at www.rtachicago.com/applications. Proposed local planning projects should implement recommendations of the GO TO 2040 comprehensive regional plan.  Applications are due at noon on Thursday, June 26, 2014.  An informational session will be held at CMAP (233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 800, Chicago) on Tuesday, June 3 at 9:00 a.m.