Dupage Policy Journal

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) met with members of the Will County Board last week, while they were in Washington, D.C., for their annual fly-in, to discuss economic-development issues, transportation priorities and manufacturing partnerships that involve the county.

“The Will County Board serves as an important local voice for the business and community interests of the entire region,” Durbin said. “This year, as Congress faces a deadline on the future of our national transportation and infrastructure network, I look forward to working with the Will County Board and other local stakeholders to produce a transportation bill that provides the necessary resources to upgrade our aging infrastructure and that puts America back to work.”

Later this year, Congress is expected to take up legislation reauthorizing highway and transit programs, and such a bill would have an important impact on Illinois.

During the meeting, Durbin also discussed the region’s continuing efforts to attract and expand investment in the manufacturing sector.

Attendees at last week’s meeting included James Moustis, Will County Board speaker; Will County Board Members Bob Howard, Suzanne Hart, Don Moran, Herb Brooks, Chuck Maher and Mike Fricilone; Nick Palmer, chief of staff for President Larry Walsh’s Office; Bruce Friefeld, chief of staff for the Will County Board; and Marcy DeMauro, executive director of the Will County Forest Preserve District.