April is Fair Housing Month, a time to recognize the role housing plays in supporting an inclusive and thriving region. ON TO 2050, the region's comprehensive plan, highlights the importance of a housing supply that responds to northeastern Illinois' changing demographics — including an aging population, increasing diversity, and changing living patterns.

One way to do that is by creating accessible housing. Ten percent of our region's population reports having a disability. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) projects that the senior population will increase by 880,000 people by 2050. Nationally, one-third of people over age 65 experience a disability that limits their mobility. These changing demographics increase the need for senior housing, accessible housing, and housing with easy access to services and amenities.

CMAP Executive Director to speak at City Club; get your tickets today!

Join elected officials and government leaders, transportation experts, engineers, and industry consultants for a City Club of Chicago event with CMAP Executive Director Erin Aleman.

Aleman will share data and insights into the current state of the region as it relates to transportation, the economy, mobility recovery, safety, and more. She also will share insights into the unprecedented and extraordinary opportunities from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and provide an update on CMAP's continued work to create an inclusive and thriving region.

This event will begin at noon Wednesday, April 27, at Maggiano's Banquets, 111 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60654.

This week, the City of McHenry adopted the Fox River Corridor Plan. The city and McHenry County received help from CMAP through the technical assistance program to create a corridor plan for the river running from Burtons Bridge to Johnsburg. McHenry County adopted the plan in February. 

The Fox River Corridor Plan presents a shared vision for the future of four municipalities, unincorporated communities, expansive open space, and the river that connects them all. The new plan promotes local and regional collaboration to highlight the river as an economic asset, support recreation and environmental protection, and improve public access. 

A new monthly series will highlight best management practices (BMPs) implemented in McHenry County to improve resiliency and sustainably manage resources.

The events, hosted by the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County and the McHenry County Department of Planning and Development, will be held on Friday afternoons from April to November. Topics include electric vehicles, rain gardens, and green infrastructure.

Learn more about Friday BMP Talks and Tours and sign up for emails about the series.

Jim Reilly, former chair of the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and chief executive officer of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, passed away on April 4. He was 77.

Reilly was chair of the RTA board from 2006 to 2010, steering the agency through the 2008 recession and transportation budget challenges. During the 1990s, he led the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, the agency that oversees McCormick Place and Navy Pier. Reilly also served as chief executive officer of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau, before returning for a second term at Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority.

Learn more about Reilly's life and legacy.

Online events

CMAQ & TAP Project Selection Committee
April 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Host: CMAP

Preparing Cook County's Natural Wonders for Change
April 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Host: Forest Preserves of Cook County

Equitable Workforce Development: How Communities Influenced Creating & Passing of the Illinois Climate & Equitable Jobs Act
April 21, from noon to 1:00 p.m.
Host: University of Illinois Chicago Urban Transportation Center
 

In-person events

Erin Aleman at City Club of Chicago
April 27, from noon to 1:00 p.m.
Host: City Club of Chicago