Foresight & Insight
Chicago Region Scenario Planning
Client
Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
Scope of Work
- Environmental Scan
- Horizon Scan
- Engagement
Interviews
Workshops
Synthesis
Reports
- Scenarios
- Identify Grand Challenges
We are thrilled to be working with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to develop Future Scenarios for the region. This project will be used to create innovative thinking, 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 inform and articulate “Grand Challenges” for Northeastern Illinois.
The Chicago region is a very large and complex area consisting of 7 counties and nearly 9 million people along the Southwestern Shore of Lake Michigan.
By mapping the range of systems, land-uses, economic conditions, transit and transportation infrastructure and climate challenges we will develop scenarios that are grounded in reality, but imagine different possibilities to build a more robust and resilient region. The 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
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 demonstrate how this large, complex area can use "Futures Thinking" to develop innovative ideas, resiliency and robust strategies for growth and inclusion.
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 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, 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 behind peers and national averages. This loss in economic competitiveness has disproportionately impacted communities of color and other disadvantaged populations.
Transportation
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. 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 our economic success, fostering trade and commerce
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