FORESIGHT & INSIGHT

Chicago Region Scenario Planning

Client

Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP)

Scope of Work

Environmental Scan
Interviews
Horizon Scan
Engagement
Workshops
Synthesis
Reports
Scenarios
Windtunnelling
Identify Grand Challenges

We are working with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to develop Future Scenarios for the region. These narratives will be used to spur innovative thinking, align stakeholders, provoke new ideas and to develop a regional vision. Specifically, scenarios will help to guide strategic directions for Northeastern Illinois.

This project will prepare the Chicago region for future uncertainty and frame, inform and articulate a number of ambitious “Grand Challenges” for northeastern Illinois.

The Chicago region is a large and complex area consisting of 7 counties and nearly 9 million people along the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. Like any large metropolitan region, the problems and issues are wide-ranging and complex, the stakeholders numerous and the pressures intense.

By mapping the range of systems, land-uses, economic conditions, transit and transportation infrastructure and climate challenges we are developing future scenarios that are grounded in reality but imagine different possibilities to build a more robust and resilient region. The 4 scenarios will be used to test strategies.

We will use data and research in specific areas:

Surface Transportation Program
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program
Transportation Alternatives Program
Metropolitan Planning Program

Voices from government, civic spheres, businesses and communities will be brought together to shape the regional plan and determine priorities. The narratives will give a full spectrum perspective to aid in decision-making.

Population

McHenry - 28,000
Lake - 709,000
Cook - 5,087,000
Kane - 515,000
Kendall - 140,000
DuPage - 921,000
Will - 701,000
City of Chicago - 2,664,000

This project will "Futures Thinking" to develop innovative ideas, resiliency and robust strategies for growth and inclusion in northeastern Illinois. The process will bring together decision-makers to answer important questions, build consensus and secure bold commitments on a path to 2060.

The Scenarios will allow us to answer, “what if…?” questions about the ranfge of forces that could transform the region.

The geographic area for this project extends over seven counties along the western shore of Lake Michigan and includes the City of Chicago.

An Overview of the
Focus Areas for the Region

Climate Change
Climate change is causing more frequent and severe weather in the region. Extreme heat, drought, and flooding impacts people, infrastructure, the environment, and the economy and, disproportionately impacts historically disinvested communities, and this could increase in the future.

Equity
Disparities in race and income mean that parts of the region lack access to jobs, healthcare, education, transportation, public safety, and other elements of a thriving community. As an agency, CMAP prioritizes strategies to be more equitable and inclusive of communities that are traditionally excluded from the planning process. Planning decisions and investments must prioritize equity and improve the lives of residents of all backgrounds, in all parts of the region.

Planning
Planning issues for the region include supporting local community capacity, improving accessibility, enabling aging in place, and addressing the spatial mismatch between housing and employment opportunities.

Economy
Northeastern Illinois enjoys many competitive advantages, from its diverse talent, specialized industries, and institutions of education, healthcare, research, and culture to its extensive transportation network and position as North America’s preeminent freight hub. These assets support the most diversified large metropolitan economy in the U.S. and a vibrant quality of life.

But the region has experienced prolonged slow growth. Across numerous metrics, northeastern Illinois has consistently lagged peers and national averages. This loss in economic competitiveness has disproportionately impacted communities of color and other disadvantaged populations.

Transportation
Transportation plays a pivotal role in northeastern Illinois, positioning the region as a vital hub in the Midwest and nationally. The strategic location at the crossroads of major transportation routes has historically contributed to Chicago’s economic success, fostering trade and commerce. With an intricate network of highways, railways, airports, waterways, and bike and pedestrian paths, the region is a crucial nexus for the movement of people, goods, and ideas.

Water
This fundamental resource must be considered carefully. Threats to Lake Michigan include invasive species and micro-plastic pollution. Extreme weather brings severe flooding to the region. Infrastructure needs upgrading. New technology and energy projects will require unprecedented amounts of water in a system that is already under siege.

Data Visualization & Report Guidelines

The Digital Stage Book

KerrSmith Design
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