It has been 10 years since the State of Illinois has had a capital program. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce has worked for the past two years with the Transportation for Illinois Coalition (TFIC) to try to get a new capital program.

In late May, we worked with several chambers to organize a downstate lobby day in Springfield. The goal was to lobby Chicago area legislators about the proposed change in the funding split relative to roads and transit in downstate vs. Chicago. Thanks to the collaboration and hard work, we were able to keep funding as is!

We have looked at local and state needs when it comes to roads, bridges, rail, transit, and airports and have been part of the discussion on funding sources because this is something that affects our members and their businesses. The Chamber is the leading voice and resource for business in the region.

Jim McConoughey, CEO The Heartland Partnership

Roberta Parks, COO Peoria Area Chamber