(The Center Square) – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced Monday that the application period for a state record $157 million in transportation enhancement program funding is now open.
Eligible projects include biking and walking paths, trails, streetscape beautification work and other improvements. An IDOT statement said at least 25% of state funding will be used for disadvantaged and economically distressed communities.
Applications must be received by Oct. 5.
MANUFACTURERS LAUD CTE BILL SIGNING
Manufacturing groups say newly-signed state legislation will secure the future of career technical education classes in Illinois high schools.
Starting in 2028, Senate Bill 3070 will allow students to complete CTE classes as an alternative to the two-year foreign-language requirement.
The Technology & Manufacturing Association and the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association both released statements commending the bill that passed with bipartisan support.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed SB 3070 Friday.
CHICAGO OFFICIALS STUDY ALTERNATIVE SAFETY PROGRAM IN ALBURQUERQUE
A delegation of Chicago officials traveled to New Mexico this week to learn from Albuquerque’s approach to behavioral health and community well-being.
The Chicago group included former state senator and mayoral chief of staff Cristina Pacione-Zayas, deputy mayors Arturo Carrillo and Emmanuel Andre, Department of Family and Support Services Commissioner Angela Green, and representatives from the Chicago Police Department, the Chicago Department of Public Health, the city’s Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement program, city council and the mayor’s office.
ILLINOIS RANKS 18TH ON BEST STATES LIST
Illinois ranks 18th on a new list of the best U.S. states to live in.
WalletHub compared livability factors ranging from housing costs and income growth to the education rate and hospital systems.
Idaho topped the list, followed by New Jersey and Wisconsin. Iowa ranked 11th.
Illinois finished ahead of #25 Indiana, #30 Missouri and #41 Kentucky. The Land of Lincoln ranked fifth for quality of life, 37th for affordability and 42nd for economy.
