October 17, 2024 CMAP Board Spotlight: Nancy Rotering, Highland Park mayor representing Lake County We’re debuting a new feature in which we’ll be highlighting members of the CMAP Board. In the first installment of the CMAP Board Spotlight, learn about Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering, who represents Lake County. Q: Tell us about yourself: why were you inspired to join the Board? A: I was inspired to join the CMAP Board due to my awareness of the transit deserts in Lake County, as well as many other collar counties. I understand the vital impact transit has on our regional economy and quality of life and appreciate the efficiencies that come with collaboration. CMAP’s work is critical to the resolution of the complex issues facing our regional transit system. Q: What are you hoping to accomplish? A: I am hoping to amplify the voices of the underserved and economically disadvantaged in the collar counties and improve our regional system to better serve the public’s needs. Transit is critical to accessing employment, education, safe housing, and healthcare, as well as improving our quality of life. Q: What is a hidden gem in your community? A: While not necessarily hidden, Ravinia Festival is an incredible gem in Highland Park. Not only does it provide incredible access to a broad range of live music, it provides musical instruments and music lessons in underserved communities throughout the Chicagoland region via its Reach Teach Play Program, and it trains rising musical talent via its Steans Music Institute. Q: What is a project you are working on right now? A: In addition to wrapping up our annual budget with a focus on supporting public safety, infrastructure investment, our local economy, and sustainability — in a fiscally responsible manner — we are working on the creation of a permanent place of remembrance in honor of those killed, wounded, and traumatized in the 2022 Highland Park shooting. Q: Have you received an award or honor that meant a great deal to you? A: I received the outstanding instructor award at Northwestern University. As a professor, the recognition by my students and their peers was a completely delightful surprise. Article by Al Lagattolla Stay connected with your community Newsletter sign-up Opens in a modal Related news Click to read Nearly $894 million awarded for road and bridge construction, plus bike, pedestrian, ADA improvements Posted on Click to read Nearly $894 million awarded for road and bridge construction, plus bike, pedestrian, ADA improvements Click to read Waukegan’s new Unified Development Ordinance charts people-focused, modern approach Posted on Click to read Waukegan’s new Unified Development Ordinance charts people-focused, modern approach Click to read Countywide safety action plans kick off Posted on Click to read Countywide safety action plans kick off Click to read Housing readiness grant application open for public comment Posted on Click to read Housing readiness grant application open for public comment