About BWI
Back to Work Illinois (BWI) is a broad coalition of civic, business, community and labor organizations dedicated to the successful implementation of Illinois’ capital investment plan through outreach, education and advocacy.
 
BWI’s goal is to ensure that the capital program is fully funded and implemented in order to put Illinois back to work NOW, fund thousands of critical road, school and public works projects across the state, and generate new revenues to support municipal and county services, promote economic development and provide tax relief. 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
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News

Johnsburg Approves Video Gambling, Welcomes Capital Bill
The Village of Johnsburg (McHenry County) overwhelmingly voted to support the Illinois capital program by approving video gambling within the Village. As the single largest funding source of the Illinois capital bill, the new state-managed video gaming system will help support the $31 billion investment program and the 439,000 jobs it will create.
 
Johnsburg is has joined a growing list of communities and counties across the state that have recently taken action to support the capital bill and all its funding sources.


City must authorize video gambling
Chicago Tribune
July 15, 2010
Letter to the Editor; Jeffrey Krozel
 
If Chicago doesn't opt-in to the state-managed video gambling system, the capital program will need to be cut by more than $2 billion.


Illinois paying for its big debt
Chicago Tribune
July 13, 2010
By Kathy Bergen, Tribune Reporter
 
While Illinois continues its biggest borrowing spree in recent years, it is paying a steep premium for loans because of its failure to significantly address its financial crisis, observers say.

In peddling another $900 million in Build America capital projects bonds on Wednesday, Illinois could face interest costs of about $9 million a year more than if the state were in better financial shape. The extra costs would total about $225 million over the life of the bonds.


Featured Project
$600 million in capital funds going to Chicago Public Schools
 


Education is a major priority of the state capital plan. $600 million in capital funding is going Chicago Public Schools. Improvements are necessary to ensure that the 409,279 students attending 675 public schools in Chicago receive an enriching education. Educating Chicago youth is a vital investment in the future of Illinois.
 

Projects include building repairs, construction, technology improvements, infrastructure improvements, and other enhancements to public schools throughout the Chicago area. Pedro Albizu Campos High School will receive funding for the construction of a hydroponics rooftop greenhouses and conservatory. Elementary schools including Murphy and Joseph Lovett will receive new playgrounds so that students can stay active. Hundreds of other schools will receive capital funding for various projects that cater to their individual needs. These projects will positively transform the learning experience and environment for thousands of public school students.


 

To learn more about Chicago Public Schools, please click here.