Morrison highlights $4 million investment in Lake Bluff, Glencoe infrastructure projects

LAKE FOREST — With support from State Senator Julie Morrison, two grants totaling over $4 million are headed to Lake Bluff and Glencoe to improve pedestrian safety and access throughout the area. The grants were awarded under the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program through the Illinois Department of Transportation.

“These projects address the daily challenges residents face when navigating their neighborhoods,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “By improving how people can move through our communities, we’re creating safer, more connected spaces that make our area an even more attractive place to live.”

The Village of Lake Bluff will see $3 million for the construction of a pedestrian bridge on the west side of Green Bay Road. The pedestrian bridge will help residents safely walk or bike to Lake Bluff Elementary School, the local trail system and Metra station, downtown Lake Bluff and other areas. After residents expressed concerns about safely navigating the busy Green Bay corridor, Morrison secured $1.2 million in the state’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget for the project. This ITEP grant will close the gap in funding the project, which is slated to begin in 2028.

In Glencoe, nearly $1.2 million will support the construction of an off-street multi-use path along the west side of Old Green Bay Road between South and Hazel avenues. The path will enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and help connect residents to parks and businesses.

The grants are part of IDOT’s commitment to improving non-motorized transportation options and supporting local infrastructure development across Illinois. Grant recipients can be found here.

Morrison strengthens due process for FOID card holders

SPRINGFIELD — In an effort to strengthen public safety while improving the state’s appeals process for FOID card decisions, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced legislation that would create a more transparent and efficient pathway for individuals whose FOID cards are revoked or denied.

House Bill 850 would establish an expedited review process for individuals who believe they have been wrongly deemed a “clear and present danger,” allowing them to more quickly resolve their case through the existing Firearm Owner’s Identification Card Review Board.

“We can keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals while ensuring everyone has the opportunity to a fair and timely review process if they believe their determination is inaccurate,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This bill offers a more effective appeals process and helps improve confidence in the accuracy of determinations.”

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Morrison highlights support for care providers, education in FY 26 budget

SPRINGFIELD — Following the Senate’s passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, State Senator Julie Morrison highlighted key investments in support services and education after voting in support of the plan.

“Crafting a responsible state budget is always a complex undertaking, and this year was no exception,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “In a year where limited revenue and shifting federal support presented real challenges, we passed a budget that aligns with our core values and the needs of Illinois families.”

The FY 26 budget includes support for direct support professionals who play a vital role in providing daily care and services to individuals with disabilities across Illinois. Throughout budget negotiations, Morrison, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, fought to secure wage increases for DSP positions.

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Senate approves Morrison plan to remove dangerous chemicals from household products

SPRINGFIELD — To protect Illinois residents from the long-term health risks posed by PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” State Senator Julie Morrison advanced legislation that would eliminate their use within common household products sold in the state.

“People shouldn’t have to worry about being repeatedly exposed to toxic chemicals from products they use every day,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This legislation is the product of extensive negotiations with state agencies and stakeholders to take a proactive response to a growing crisis.”

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a type of synthetic chemicals designed for oil- and water-resistant purposes. Once released into the environment or absorbed by our body, PFAS do not break down easily and can accumulate over time. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues including cancer, hormone disruption, immune system damage and developmental problems in children.

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