President Joe Biden recently signed into law a $1.5 trillion spending plan (H.R. 2471) for fiscal year 2022, providing resources to fully implement the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The plan also includes funding for the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to support communities in northeastern Illinois with flood resilience projects.

The appropriations bill allows states to finalize plans for implementing IIJA’s historic investments in infrastructure. The bill unlocks funding for IIJA programs that can modernize roads and highways, expand bicycle and pedestrian networks, protect vulnerable road users, and strengthen transit investments.

CMAP also will receive $175,000 to support regional flood resilience through congressionally directed spending from U.S. Senator Dick Durbin. An updated flood susceptibility index will help prioritize areas across the region for flood mitigation activities. A companion project will examine flood risk in the region in relation to vulnerable communities prone to environmental injustices.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced this week that $2.9 billion in grant funding is available for major infrastructure projects under the IIJA. State, regional, and local governments will be able to use a single application to pursue grant funding through three separate programs either established or reauthorized by the infrastructure law.

The funding opportunity better supports state and local applicants and strengthens the pipeline of "shovel-worthy" projects available under this law, according to the USDOT. Applications are due by Monday, May 23.

The Village of Burlington adopted this week a new comprehensive plan, called Keep Burlington Unique. The plan includes recommendations for preserving and enhancing Burlington's high quality of life.

CMAP worked closely with the village to develop the plan over the past two years. Staff helped Burlington officials and residents identify opportunities and challenges, develop a consensus vision for the community's future, and establish steps for making that vision a reality.

Local governments in northeastern Illinois are taking steps to support renewable energy, as recommended in ON TO 2050, the region’s long-range plan.

Last week, 10 communities — Bensenville, Broadview, Carol Stream, Geneva, Gurnee, Hazel Crest, Mount Prospect, Northlake, Oak Forest, and Westmont — received SolSmart designation. SolSmart is a national program that recognizes local governments that support solar energy growth.

The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus worked with the communities to help them meet the designation requirements. The caucus also has resources for communities interested in pursuing SolSmart designation.

The City of Elgin also is starting a new community solar program. Residents and small businesses can buy solar-powered electricity without needing to install solar panels.

Illinois Affordable Housing Forum

March 31

Host: Illinois Housing Council