Illinois Chamber of Commerce Group Interview

During this meeting, we discussed…

Key Concerns/Challenges

• Lack of capitalizing on businesses as economic drivers along rivers/riverfronts (particularly for storage or movement of goods)
• Non-efficient movement of goods along Chicago waterways due to aging infrastructure
• More public awareness around industry utilizing Chicago waterways

Key Priorities/Opportunities      

• Articulate the benefits of river/riverfront use for economic development as much as for recreational opportunities
• Improvements to locks, barge and boat traffic, as well as coordination with bridges
• Attention to industrial areas, especially around Lake Calumet and Calumet River areas

Big Ideas

• Capitalize on anticipated Panama Canal expansion to increase use of Chicago waterways for movement of goods