Metropolitan Planning Council

Programs: Since 1934, mpc has shaped a more sustainable and prosperous chicagoland. An independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, mpc serves communities and residents by developing, promoting and implementing solutions for sound regional growth. In 2017, mpc worked across housing, transportation, land use, water resources and community development to steer chicagoland toward a stronger future in the following ways: great rivers chicago: 2016's "our great rivers", released by mpc, articulated a bold future for chicago's rivers and identified clear steps for recreation and community and economic development, and conservation. During 2017, this initiative has gone from the theoretical to the practical. As momentum builds and new investments are transforming ideas to reality, mpc is committed to defining structures to govern, maintain and sustainably maintain and fund projects. Cost of segregation: mpc conducted further research and drafted recommendations within a comprehensive roadmap. Mpc conducted numerous interviews, surveys and focus groups, a literature review, learning trips to seattle and atlanta, and convened more than 100 experts from its cost of segregation committees and workgroups. Stormwater management/water supply: mpc facilitates the calumet stormwater collaboration (csc) which brought together stakeholders to collaboratively solve stormwater challenges in the calumet region. Mpc made progress on its 10-point water supply action agenda for northeastern illinois on policy improvements that are necessary to better steward and manage the region's drinking water. Examples include water rate affordability and regionalization study and piloting. Government efficiency: through coordinated research, advocacy, legislative and policy implementation, mpc's initiatives such as "transform illinois" improve the efficiency of government service delivery in illinois, and expand awareness of the economic impact of the current structures of government in the state. Mpc is leading municipal capacity building efforts, and released an influential report, and worked closely with local governments to pilot recommendations and research findings on the ground. Transportation: mpc participated in the multi-sector transportation for illinois coalition to study, advocate, and educate legislators on illinois' backlog in transportation-system improvements. Mpc witnessed the passage of the transit facility improvement area (tra) value capture bill, which mpc designed and supported. Housing: mpc has piloted innovative approaches to housing and community development in city neighborhoods and suburbs. By forging public-private partnerships, municipal leaders advance more efficient and effective housing and community development strategies. Mpc has continued its efforts in homes for a changing region, providing research and technical assistance after a highly successful website launch event.