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Solving for tomorrow, together
The Century Plan is a long-term vision for a better, stronger future for northeastern Illinois. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is leading its development on behalf of the region — convenings and conversations are in full swing!
Here's what's happening now:
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Listening for priorities: Catalyst Series events are bringing together leaders from government, business, civic, and philanthropic sectors for in-depth conversations around topics ripe for regional coordination. Look out for opportunities to join below!
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Spotting early solutions: Local government leaders are coming together to explore how regional trends are showing up in different areas, discuss what communities are already planning and doing, and think about which challenges the region should prioritize.
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On our minds: water and climate |
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CMAP's Executive Director: Water abundance is a gift of nature. Stewardship is a shared responsibility.
The seemingly abundant fresh water of Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater systems in the world, is not guaranteed.
Threats loom over the next several decades: demand is rising, infrastructure is aging, weather patterns are becoming more extreme, and water-intensive industries are expanding.
The choices we make today will determine whether future generations inherit a region defined not just by access to water, but by the wisdom to manage it together.
Read the full commentary by CMAP Executive Director Erin Aleman, published by Crain’s Chicago Business for Crain’s Forum
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Time for action: a climate roadmap for Greater Chicago
Greater Chicago is at a turning point: climate change is no longer a distant threat but a daily reality, with stronger storms, flooding, dangerous heat, and worsening air quality across the region.
To meet this moment with urgency and purpose, CMAP — in partnership with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission — developed the Comprehensive Climate Action Plan for Greater Chicago. The climate action plan will directly inform The Century Plan.
To celebrate this milestone and kick off conversations on how the region can tackle climate challenges together, CMAP is hosting a Catalyst Series event next week:
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When: Wednesday, April 15 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
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Where: The Old Post Office Penthouse & Green Rooftop
- Register here
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Great Lakes, High Stakes: Managing our water advantage
For generations, Lake Michigan has given northeastern Illinois an extraordinary advantage: abundant, clean drinking water that has powered our growth and shaped our identity. But aging infrastructure, rising demand, and evolving industrial needs are testing the resilience of one of our greatest assets.
On May 6, join regional leaders for a timely, future-focused conversation about how the region can work together to protect and strengthen our Great Lakes advantage. This event is affiliated with Chicago Water Week, presented by Current.
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When: Wednesday, May 6, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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Where: Brookfield Zoo, Swan Pavilion
- Register here
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Catalyst Series event recap: Planning and navigating tensions in the new industrial age
Our journey to shape The Century Plan led us to the Fox Metro Water Reclamation District facility in Oswego for a thought-provoking discussion around industrial land use and development.
Conversations focused on the tension between the desire and need for economic growth through technological investment and innovation, while balancing the substantial demand for energy, water, infrastructure, and a skilled workforce.
The takeaway was clear: it’s going to take thoughtful planning and strong regional coordination to solve these big, complex problems.
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Local government leaders share insights, help shape The Century Plan
CMAP kicked off a series local insights workshops in Deer Park with members of the Northwest Municipal Conference and Barrington Area Council of Governments. The group explored how regional trends are playing out locally and shared experiences and insights that will help shape The Century Plan.
Some key takeaways include:
- Streamlined processes with regional partners could help communities maximize development opportunities.
- Communities are facing big, expensive investments, such as replacing aging infrastructure and purchasing new equipment. Regional coordination could help mitigate larger trends and rising costs.
- Walkable, dense communities are desirable in theory but can be in tension with developer and consumer preferences around parking and cars.
Do you represent or work for a local government? Join the conversation! Connect with Jane Grover at jgrover@cmap.illinois.gov to learn about upcoming opportunities.
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Thank you for your partnership in shaping a stronger, better future for northeastern Illinois. You're receiving this email because you expressed interest in The Century Plan. If at any point you no longer wish to receive updates on The Century Plan, click below to manage your preferences.
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