The Century Plan is a long-term vision for a better, stronger future for northeastern Illinois. On behalf of the region, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is leading this initiative, which invites voices across government, civic spheres, business, and communities to prioritize what the region will need to thrive by midcentury. The Century Plan will serve as our “north star” and define what we must do together, why it matters to the region and provide policy guidance on how we get there. It is a roadmap to guide regional alignment around what matters most and how we take action to secure the future we want. CMAP will bring together decision-makers and action-takers to build consensus and secure bold commitments on a path for the next 20 to 30 years. How will transportation evolve over the next several decades? Where will people live and work in our region, and what new industries will emerge? How can we anticipate challenges and seize opportunities to deliver a high quality of life in cities, suburbs, and rural communities across northeastern Illinois? Together, we can answer these questions and achieve more Shape the future How will we address our biggest challenges together?
The Century Plan launch Fall '25 Nearly 1,000 leaders gather to celebrate the launch of northeastern Illinois’ next big plan. Read more.
Analyze regional trends Winter '25/'26 Understand where the region stands today on broad quality-of-life issues. Read more.
Spot early solutions Spring – Fall '26 Learn from what local communities are already planning and doing. Read more.
Explore different futures Spring – Fall '26 Ask questions about what forces can transform our region. Read more.
Listen for priorities Spring '26 – '27 Engage government, business, civic, and community leaders in regionwide dialogues. Read more.
Identify grand challenges Fall '26 What challenges have the most potential to impact our regional competitiveness and quality of life, and require regional strategy and action? Read more.
Put it all together Spring – Fall '27 CMAP presents The Century Plan for public comment and adoption.
Take action together! Fall '27 onward Partners across northeastern Illinois use The Century Plan to spark innovation and investment.
Regional Transportation Plan The 2026 RTP guides how our region invests in and improves the transportation system over the coming decades.
ON TO 2050 ON TO 2050 is the comprehensive plan that guides regional priorities in northeastern Illinois.
Comprehensive Climate Action Plan for Greater Chicago The climate action plan outlines a clear path to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.