Illinois' 'Makers on the Move' Tour Kicks Off, DOT Reviews Chicago Transit Projects for Fairness
The fourth annual 'Makers on the Move' statewide bus tour has begun, shining a spotlight on Illinois' manufacturing sector. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a rule barring race- and sex-based contracting requirements from federal grants, with two major Chicago transit projects under review.
The 'Makers on the Move' tour, organized by the Illinois Manufacturers' Association and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center, kicked off without revealing the specific companies on the itinerary. However, it was confirmed that the first stop was at The Will Group in Chicago, a minority-owned technology producer. This visit aligns with the DOT's recent interim final rule, which aims to prevent discriminatory practices in federal grant-funded contracts.
The DOT is currently reviewing two significant Chicago transit projects - the Red Line Extension and the Red and Purple Modernization Program, together worth $2.1 billion - to ensure they comply with the new rule. These projects are crucial for improving public transportation in the city, and the DOT's review will help ensure they are carried out fairly and efficiently.
The 'Makers on the Move' tour continues to showcase Illinois' manufacturing industry, with the first stop at a minority-owned technology producer reflecting the DOT's commitment to fair contracting practices. The DOT's review of the Chicago transit projects will help ensure that federal funds are used responsibly and without discrimination.
