CMAP: GO TO 2040 regional plan

While the seven-county metropolitan Chicago region is prosperous by many measures, sustaining residents' quality of life depends on our ability to address these problems. The GO TO 2040 comprehensive regional plan's main purpose is to grow our region's economy by building on its strengths and overcoming its challenges. Visit www.cmap.illinois.gov for details of the plan.

The plan articulates policy reforms that are carefully targeted to enhance the region's economy by setting clear priorities, including improved efficiency of investments and transparency of public decision making. Within local control over zoning and land decisions, communities have many opportunities to work both together and independently toward the common goal of sustainable prosperity.

GO TO 2040 calls for investment in existing communities and emphasizes development that is more compact and "livable." By implementing GO TO 2040, residents will have more options for getting around, more options for housing, more jobs nearer to where they live, more parks and open space, more plentiful and cleaner water, healthier air, and better quality of life.

The plan seeks to maintain and strengthen our region's position as one of the nation's few global economic centers. Prosperity is driven largely by a combination of infrastructure, overall business environment, workforce, and amenities. To remain an attractive place for workers and businesses, our region needs: * Global connections that link us to international trade and information networks, providing economic opportunities and a broad range of jobs. * A robust, diverse business community, skilled labor force, and excellent higher education system. * Modern, well-maintained infrastructure, including transportation, energy, telecommunications, and water. * A healthy environment with ample open space and parks for recreation. * Active institutions for arts and culture, along with other amenities for a high overall quality of life. * Government that is transparent and highly accountable.

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