SPRINGFIELD - December 3, 2008. Lt. Governor Pat Quinn's office hosted a public forum on sustainable schools in Illinois.
The public forum focused on the significance of school location and walkability. Discussion topics included: challenges to protecting historic schools; benefits of renovating older schools instead of building new schools; the role transportation plays in determining where to locate schools; and suggested changes to school siting policies, legislation, and district procedures. Public comments from the forum will be considered in the development of a report examining school siting issues in Illinois.
"Quality education is central to the long-term prosperity of our Illinois communities," Quinn said. "Centrally located schools make walking and biking a viable option for our children and benefit not only children's health, but also our environment and economy."
Royce Yeater, Midwest Director of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, made the opening presentation, which was followed by a panel discussion and question and answer session. Panelists at the public forum included: Roy Smith, Lovington School District Superintendent; Mike Waldinger, American Institute of Architects Illinois; and Megan Holt, IDOT Safe Routes to School Coordinator.
The public forum was also supported by the Healthy Schools Campaign, Landmarks Illinois, the Active Transportation Alliance, the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, and AIA Illinois.
Lt. Governor Quinn serves as the chairman of the Illinois Green Governments Coordinating Council, which works with state agencies to develop policies that reduce pollution, promote conservation, and integrate green practices into state government operations. The Council also serves as a resource for municipalities and educational institutions throughout Illinois.
For more information, please visit GreenSolutions.il.gov. |