Illinois lawmakers have passed a record-high $53.1 billion fiscal spending plan for 2025, marking the largest budget in state history and exceeding Governor J.B. Pritzker's request. Analysis from the Illinois Policy Institute indicates that the budget includes approximately $1.1 billion in tax hikes, over $200 million more than what Pritzker proposed. The budget now awaits the governor's approval.
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) have announced new investments on Chicago Avenue aimed at enhancing bus reliability for the #66 Chicago Avenue route. This week, CDOT will begin installing red bus-only lanes on Chicago Avenue between Sangamon Street and Larrabee Street, while completing the installation of new bus priority lanes between Grand Avenue and Campbell Avenue. These developments are part of an ongoing effort to create a nearly continuous 3.9-mile bus lane from Grand to Ashland and from Milwaukee to Michigan Avenue.
On May 28, 2024, the Illinois House of Representatives reconvened in Springfield to address the state budget and several pending bills. The session began at noon and was anticipated to extend late into the evening.
Memorial Day is a reminder of the brave men and women who died while fighting in the U.S. Armed Forces. While Memorial Day is usually a holiday marking the beginning of summer, we must also remember the heroes who made our freedom possible.
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced updated traffic impacts due to two ongoing pavement repair projects on North and South DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced the 2024 schedule for its Learn to Ride program, offering free bike riding classes for adults and children throughout the summer. The classes are led by the SAFE (Streets Are for Everybody) Ambassadors, an outreach team within CDOT focused on traffic safety and active transportation options. The program caters to all experience levels, from beginners to those looking to refine their skills.
Paul Vallas, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Public Schools, said Illinois legislators attempting to change the term “offender” to “justice-impacted individual” shows that they see “criminals as victims and police as criminals.”
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is seeking candidates dedicated to serving and making a lasting impact in their community. The department offers full-time career opportunities across various fields, including healthcare, business, leadership and administration, community and social services, technology, law, public safety, and more. Positions are available statewide. Bilingual candidates are highly encouraged to apply.
The City of Chicago is preparing for a busy Memorial Day weekend from Friday, May 24 to Monday, May 27. Numerous festivals, concerts, athletic events, and the opening of beaches are scheduled throughout the city and along the lakefront.
UI Health has been honored with the Partner for Change award by Practice Greenhealth, a prominent organization focused on promoting environmental sustainability within the healthcare sector.
Kim Foxx’s proposed policy not to prosecute more serious crimes discovered during minor traffic stops is more show than substance, according to a former prosecutor.
Chicago Poet Laureate avery r. young, in collaboration with the Chicago Public Library (CPL), the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), and the Poetry Foundation, has announced a series of free workshops and creative opportunities for residents. The initiative aims to celebrate poetry year-round and is central to young’s multidisciplinary practice as a poet, composer, and educator.
A vacant one-story building in East Garfield Park will be rehabilitated as a print shop and offices with assistance from a Cook County Class 6b property tax incentive approved by City Council today. Planned for 272 N. California Ave. by Studio inHause and Chicago Printworks, the $2.4 million project will include facade improvements, roof repairs, and an interior buildout.