Regional Scenario.  See www.cmap.illinois.gov/2040scenario to download our new Regional Scenario report.  Even if you've already seen the draft text version, be sure to see this new illustrated one, which really makes the document come to life.  Also, read about the scenario in a CMAP press release.  The scenario -- one last precursor to the GO TO 2040 comprehensive regional plan that will be available in draft form this spring, with implementation of the final plan to begin in October 2010.  The Regional Scenario establishes clear policy directions that CMAP will pursue in the plan itself, which is intended to guide growth and investment choices through mid-century and beyond in the counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will.  Based on two years of research, analysis, and public input, the scenario tackles pressing issues that require coordinated solutions at the local and regional levels.  The Daily Herald had a story about it in today's paper.

Burnham goes to 2040.  Yesterday we welcomed a big roomful of more than 70 partners from last year's Burnham Plan Centennial, who visited CMAP to hear about the new preferred Regional Scenario and how they can help spur the GO TO 2040 plan's implementation.  Opening remarks were made by former centennial blogger Pat Reardon, and we took the opportunity to present plaques to centennial stalwarts Emily Harris and Laurie Scott in recognition of their extraordinary efforts.  CMAP will convene a series of quarterly meetings to engage the GO TO 2040 partners, among whom we are now very happy to include the former centennial partners.

Radio interview.  I'll be stopping by the Mike Nowak Show on WCPT at 9:00 a.m. this Sunday, January 24, 2010, to discuss the preferred Regional Scenario and our progress on GO TO 2040.  Tune in to 820-AM if you live in the city, 92.7 (North), or 99.9 (South). 

Future of rail.  Last Friday I attended the rail conference convened by Governor Quinn and sponsored by the Environmental Law & Policy Center and the Northwestern University Transportation Center.  Especially interesting was the discussion about our state's prospects for federal high-speed rail funding, which could play a very significant role in future economic development.  Read about it in the Trib and Daily Herald. 

Transportation funds.  For the one-year redistribution of ARRA funds for transportation, a snapshot will be taken of stimulus spending by all the states at 11:50 p.m. on March 1, 2010.  If Illinois has obligated all of its ARRA funds at that time, it will not be penalized by losing unobligated funding and it will have access to any redistribution of funds from other states that have not obligated all of their stimulus funds.  At this point in time, Illinois (including the state, locals, transit agencies) is in good shape to have all funds obligated on time.  If on March 3, 2010, Illinois deobligates some of its ARRA funds, the state will not lose that money as long as those funds were obligated again by the deadline of September 30, 2010.  Beyond September 30, 2010, ARRA funds will not be permitted to be reobligated.  Obligated balances are available for expenses incurred until September 30, 2015, at which point any remaining balance will be cancelled.  Click here for a list of Q&A for stimulus questions from state departments of transportation.

Recovery blog.  Be sure to check out this week's Economic Recovery Update, which features a case study on work being done with stimulus funds in Lake County, as well as information about the new Illinois Cash for Appliances rebate program. 

New partners in Full Circle:  Yorkville.  Early last year, CMAP solicited proposals for funding from our Full Circle community planning and mapping project.  This week we will highlight the outcomes of the City of Yorkville's project to survey trees within the city's parkway system with the objective of developing a tree and landscaping ordinance.  Read a full description of the project and its outcomes here.  

Free bus rides.  Pace Route 714 is running free of charge from January 19 through January 29, 2010, thanks to a CMAQ grant.  The bus runs between the College of DuPage, the downtown Naperville Metra station, the IIT Rice Campus, downtown Wheaton, and the Wheaton Metra station. 

Peters Fellowship reminder.  CMAP and the Steering Committee of the Phillip D. Peters Regional Planning Fellowship Program are pleased to announce the availability of a fellowship during the summer of 2010.  The competition is open to students enrolled in a graduate degree program in planning or a related field. Click here for the position announcement, application guidelines, and recommendation form.  The deadline is Wednesday, February 17, 2010.  Questions regarding the fellowship should be directed to Catherine Holland-Hatcher, HR Associate, at 312-386-8772 or chollandhatcher@cmap.illinois.gov. 

Expressway vehicle miles travelled report.  CMAP staff recently updated a report of vehicle miles traveled on the region's expressways and tollways.  The report now examines data through 2008.  The data showed continuing moderation in historical VMT growth.  Factors affecting regional expressway VMT are explored, including Tollway reconstruction and pricing charges; recent Southland road improvements; regional variations in growth and employment; motor fuel costs; changes in travel mode share; and recent high unemployment. 

Northeastern Illinois photography show.  Don't forget to visit Prairie Bread Kitchen in Oak Park starting next Saturday, January 30 to view the dozen winning photographs from our Images of Northeastern Illinois Photo Contest.  The show will run for the entire month of February.  Join CMAP staff on the 30th from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the bakery, and you can also meet some of the artists.  Thanks again to Prairie Bread Kitchen for the opportunity to show off these beautiful images of our region.

2010 calendar.  Speaking of the Photo Contest, CMAP has also created an appealing 2010 calendar featuring each of our winning photos.  You can order one for yourself (or a friend) online for free.  Supplies are limited, so order today. 

In the GO TO 2040 blog.  We have a new post from CAC member Robert Munson about how Chicagoland compares to the three cities of Berlin, Paris, and London in terms of transit. 

Tweet tweet.  Do you follow our Twitter feed?  We're just a few followers shy of 600, and we'd love to connect with you.  Check it out at http://twitter.com/GOTO2040.