SE Illinois News

On October 7, 2024, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to Wabash County by SE Illinois News. The media organization is known for its comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.

The request sought records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, preferably in an electronic format. Specifically, the requested information included a list of FOIA logs sent to Wabash County from January 1, 2024, until October 7, 2024. The fields requested were the requester's name and organization, the content and date of the request, the date when the request was completed, and the status of the FOIA.

As members of SE Illinois News, we are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.

In other news related to Illinois infrastructure development, The Illinois Department of Transportation announced in July 2023 that it would launch Rebuild Illinois - its most extensive multi-year program aimed at improving all modes of transportation across the state. Governor JB Pritzker stated that over $40 billion would be invested over six years towards better roads and bridges, modernized transit and aviation systems, as well as expanded and faster passenger rail service.

According to further details from the Illinois Department of Transportation, ten major projects are planned or underway in Chicago under JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois program. A total investment of $396 million has been earmarked for these projects aimed at enhancing safety and mobility on Illinois's roads and bridges. Three out of these ten projects are scheduled for completion in 2024, with the remaining seven set to be completed between 2025 and 2030. Additionally, an investment of $107 million has been made for seven projects in Kane County, while central Cook County will see an investment of $220 million for ten projects focused on road and bridge construction under the Rebuild Illinois program.