$192 million MidAmerica Metrolink extension nears completion
Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office says a $192 million, 5.2-mile Metrolink rail extension in the Metro East is undergoing final safety and performance evaluations, with revenue service expected to begin in the coming weeks. The transit project extends Metrolink transit to MidAmerica St. Louis airport in Mascoutah and the Shiloh-Scott station adjacent to Scott Air Force Base. With $127 million from the Rebuild Illinois capital program and $65 million in local contributions, the project includes $32 million for new roadway infrastructure and $6 million for a 4.5-mile extension of the MetroBikeLink Trail.
Groundbreaking held for Metro East film studios
Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other public officials broke ground on a Metro East film production facility supported by state tax credits. Hollywood River Studios in Wood River is projected to create more than a thousand jobs, with each production generating 300 to 500 temporary opportunities. In addition to other programs, the Film Production Tax Credit offers an additional 5% credit on Illinois resident salaries for productions filming outside of six Chicago-area counties.
Illinois Product Expo to be held in Chicago
The state agriculture department is bringing the Illinois Product Expo to Chicago on October 16 and 17. Following previous events in Springfield and Du Quoin with Illinois vendors, the Chicago Illinois Product Expo will be held at the Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum on the east campus of the University of Illinois Chicago. Advance tickets are available for $10 plus fees. Tickets at the door cost $15 plus fees.
