2009 Illinois Capital Bill Highlights

In 2009, the state of Illinois enacted the first significant capital investment program in over a decade. The $31 billion capital plan will invest in roads, bridges, transit, schools, health care, public works, the environment, economic development and other critical projects that will keep our economy moving and put Illinois residents Back to Work. As Illinois struggles with the highest unemployment rate in 25 years, the capital plan is estimated to create 439,000 jobs over the next five years.

 

Capital Plan Highlights:

 

  • $31 billion in investments over five years
  • Create a minimum of 439,000 jobs over five years
  • $4.6 billion statewide in road, highway, bridge and transit programs
  • $3 billion statewide for school construction
  • $3.3 billion statewide for economic and community development projects, including health care, parks, cultural institutions, and economic redevelopment
  • $1.3 billion for environmental projects, drinking water and sewer upgrades, conservation and cleaning toxic sites
     

In addition to these projects, the capital plan provides local communities with new revenue to help support police, fire, public works and other community priorities chosen by local city councils and village boards.

 

 

 
 


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.