\n<\/p>\n
With nearly 1 in 4 U.S. freight trains and half of all intermodal trains passing through Chicago<\/a>, rail remains the economic backbone of Illinois. As former head of the Illinois Department of Transportation, I\u2019ve seen how rail fuels growth and opportunity. Yet decades of underinvestment have limited our potential, leading families and companies to seek better prospects elsewhere.<\/p>\n The path forward is clear: Invest in infrastructure to drive economic growth. The 2003 Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency, or CREATE program,<\/a> proved what\u2019s possible. This $5.8 billion public-private partnership improved safety, eased congestion and modernized freight and passenger lines. The results were transformative \u2014 44,000 new jobs, $31.5 billion in economic benefits and a more competitive business environment. Private investments like the CenterPoint Intermodal Center in Elwood<\/a> have yielded similar success, generating jobs, tax revenue and renewed business interest in Illinois.<\/p>\n Now, new rail investments offer a powerful way to revive Illinois\u2019 declining economy<\/a>. Canadian National\u2019s new logistics hub<\/a> in Grundy County will relieve pressure on Chicago\u2019s freight network while spurring local growth. Construction will create<\/a> 600 good-paying jobs, and once operational, the facility will employ 6,865 workers and generate more than $850 million annually in economic output. The resulting $20 million in yearly tax revenue will fund schools, roads and public services \u2014 directly improving families\u2019 lives.<\/p>\n The Springfield Rail Improvements Project<\/a> represents another strategic investment. This $544 million initiative will reduce congestion, enhance safety and modernize transportation through rail consolidation, bridge reconstruction and a new multimodal center. As Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., said<\/a>, \u201cInvesting in our rail infrastructure is critical for growing our economy.\u201d The project will also support good-paying jobs and long-term regional competitiveness.<\/p>\n Together, these projects exemplify the power of rail to drive growth. Every $1 invested in railroads generates $2.50 in economic activity, and every rail job creates nearly four more in industries like manufacturing and logistics. For Illinois \u2014 a state eager to retain and attract businesses \u2014 the returns are undeniable.<\/p>\n Because 25% of all U.S. freight trains and 50% of intermodal trains pass through metro Chicago<\/a>, Illinois\u2019 investments strengthen not only its own economy but the entire nation\u2019s supply chain. The state stands at a crossroads: Hesitate, and opportunities slip away; invest, and Illinois can once again lead as the engine of America\u2019s growth.<\/p>\n Milton Sees, former secretary, Illinois Department of Transportation and former chairman, Capitol City Railroad Relocation Authority<\/i><\/p>\n November is known as a time for giving thanks and extending generosity. However, it\u2019s difficult to feel a sense of appreciation, knowing that people are being negatively impacted by what\u2019s happening in the world.<\/p>\n Consider this a friendly reminder to be kind every day \u2014 especially during this time of gratitude. As the president and CEO of Envision Unlimited<\/a>, a nonprofit that serves people with disabilities and mental health challenges, I\u2019ve learned some lessons in kindness from the very best \u2014 the people we serve.<\/p>\n For the past decade, I have watched them consistently demonstrate compassion and grace for friends, family, neighbors and even people across the globe, in spite of the stigma and obstacles they regularly face in their own lives.<\/p>\n This summer, some of our members collected and donated school supplies for Central American families in need. Our folks even established a Kindness Team, so members could support meaningful causes in their community, from food insecurity to those in need of financial assistance. Earlier this year, they worked to raise funds for individuals affected by the California wildfires. And most recently, several of them came out to cheer me along during the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. It was a highlight of the race when I desperately needed a pick-me-up.<\/p>\n Given the state of the world, we need more of these gestures, whether it\u2019s listening to someone who needs an ear or giving a compliment to a stranger.<\/p>\n Whenever you feel overwhelmed with current events, I encourage you to think of the Envision Unlimited members who extend a helping hand to everyone without judgment. Kindness may not solve all of the problems we\u2019re facing, but it helps to make our days more manageable.<\/p>\n Mark McHugh, president and CEO, Envision Unlimited<\/i><\/p>\n Crime statistics for assault, battery and other acts of terrorism are likely to be reduced in Chicago and surrounding suburbs now that U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino<\/a> and his goon squad have left.<\/a> <\/p>\n Juanita Jarard, Olympia Fields<\/i><\/p>\n As we approach the holiday season and are considering gifts for friends and relatives, a book can be a wonderful and meaningful present. For all of President Donald Trump\u2019s Cabinet, I would suggest Hans Christian Andersen\u2019s \u201cThe Emperor\u2019s New Clothes.\u201d I\u2019m sure even their children can explain it to them if needed.<\/p>\n Bill Carroll, Roscoe Village<\/i><\/p>\nKeen on kindness <\/h3>\n
Safer without Border Patrol <\/h3>\n
Gift idea <\/h3>\n
Clarifying Affordable Care Act<\/h3>\n