Chicago could soon benefit from Business Improvement Districts, thanks to Feigenholtz

SPRINGFIELD — To give downtown Chicago business owners a concrete path to address the needs of their communities and generate revenue that can be used to revitalize business corridors across the city, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz advanced legislation that would allow for the creation of Business Improvement Districts.

“After three years of work, we are giving Magnificent Mile business owners the freedom to chart their own path on a downtown revitalization plan,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “Through Business Improvement Districts, our vibrant city centers will have the flexibility and authority to direct their own spending, development and revival.”

Senate Bill 3679 would set the foundation for Chicago businesses to form a Business Improvement District – or BID – and collectively fund improvement projects. Business owners would have direct oversight on how the funds are utilized for projects within the district. BIDs only apply to commercial properties, meaning homeowners and residential properties would not pay any additional fees.

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Morrison passes measure to enhance EMT training

SPRINGFIELD – To increase efficiency in emergency response, State Senator Julie Morrison led a measure through the Senate to outline training on how to access the medical ID function within health apps on cellphones.

“With the majority of people having a cell phone on them at all times, it’s easy for people to have their own digital medical ID,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This measure will help first responders keep up with technology and use this feature to save lives.”

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Villivalam advances legislation to expand grant access for early childhood education programs

SPRINGFIELD - To expand access to the Illinois’ Early Childhood Construction Grant program, State Senator Ram Villivalam passed legislation through the Senate that would make community-based not-for-profits eligible for $40 million.

“As a father of two, I understand the importance of having access to quality early childhood education,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Our next generation is quickly growing up and it is important that we invest in resources to provide them with the quality education they need to succeed.”

The measure would allow the Capital Development Board to approve Early Childhood Construction Grants for nonprofit early childhood entities in the state – broadening eligibility to new providers, including nonprofits that rent or lease their space from another nonprofit entity.

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Hastings champions measure to alleviate highway traffic noise

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois residents are one step closer toward receiving relief from noisy highway traffic, thanks to State Senator Michael E. Hastings. 

“Illinois is the heart and soul of the nation’s interstate highway system,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Our roads, bridges and highways further our state’s mission to serve as an economic hub. However, at times this comes with noisy consequences for our neighbors who live near highways.”

The Hastings-led initiative will require the Illinois Department of Transportation to implement an expansion in their noise suppression program to give those who live near existing highways some relief.”

Read more: Hastings champions measure to alleviate highway traffic noise