Chicago’s quantum hub has some of the highest state funding per job. Here’s the breakdown
Editor’s Note: This is the second of three explainers examining key issues in the 128-acre Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park, or IQMP. Today, we look at the project’s potential for job creation. We’ll wrap up the series next week with a focus on projected water use and environmental impacts. Read more: How Much Public and…
Making It In chicago
‘We’re at the Mercy of Child Care:’ Child Care Costs are Crushing Families — Illinois’ Largest Subsidy Excludes Thousands
While the state infuses hundreds of millions of dollars a year into child care programs, the strict eligibility requirements and limitations for its largest…
When Seniors Face Expensive Home Repairs, the Solutions Can be a Lifeline…Or Leave Their Families an Inheritance of Debt
Wealth and property passed down from parents to their children can be a major financial boost. But as some aging parents struggle financially, they…
Jobs. Block Clubs. Investment: How Chicagoans are Interrupting Violence at its Roots
The causes and solutions to gun violence are difficult to quantify—or control. One thing is clear: gun violence is highest in Chicago’s poorest neighborhoods.…
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‘You’re One of Us’: After Off-Duty Cop Crashed Car Then Holed Up at Home in Armed Standoff with Police, He Got a Big Hug and Initially Faced No Charges
Officer Ryan Harter eventually was charged with misdemeanors — nearly three weeks later.
The 2026 Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting are Now Open for Submissions
Submissions are now open for the 22nd Anniversary Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting. News organizations across Chicago and Illinois are encouraged to apply. The deadline to submit your entry is Monday, February 23rd at 11:59 p.m. CDT. Join us for Beyond the Byline: Featuring the 22nd Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative…
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How Much Public and Private Money Is Powering Chicago’s Quantum Push?
Editor’s Note: We published a story last year examining the massive public investment aimed at developing the quantum industry in South Chicago. This week, we begin a three-part explainer series…
Chicago Police Brass Had Rejected Troubled Cop’s Move to Elite Unit Before He Fatally Shot Partner
Chief of Patrol Jon Hein approved Officer Carlos Baker’s transfer despite having denied his request for the move less than a year earlier because of “discipline’ problems.
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Investigating Responses
Illinois’ Low-Cost Library Program Takes on the Justice Gap
A pilot program in 18 libraries across nine counties trains staff to help residents navigate civil court proceedings, offering a lifeline in communities where legal aid and public transit are scarce.
Illinois Is Turning to Local Jails to Treat Mentally Ill Defendants. Some Early Results Offer Hope — and Warnings
It’s not often that Menard County Jail has a detainee who has been found unfit for trial. The jail, just north of Springfield, is small. With a census that can hover around 10 people or less, and just a few correctional staff on a given shift, mental health care is limited. In 2024, the man…
Investigations
A Once Dying Mall in Southern Illinois is Getting a Mighty Makeover, Thanks to $112M Bond Deal, But The Project Has Hit a Speed Bump
Officials in Marion say the massive redevelopment is on track, but one of the three main developers has already dropped out, facing a slew of lawsuits.
‘Where is Justice for Krystal?’ Mom of Cop Asks After Suing Chicago Police Department, Partner Who Shot Her
The lawsuit filed by Officer Krystal Rivera’s family says Officer Carlos Baker failed to call for an ambulance after he shot her in the back during a chase and then engaged in a “cover-up.”
Special Projects
Making it in Chicago: Detours and Dead Ends on the Path to Opportunity
The path to upward mobility is paved by affordable and quality education, housing, health care, as well as safe neighborhoods and good-paying jobs… things increasingly out of reach for many Chicagoans. Some city, state and community -led efforts could be part of a roadmap to economic opportunity.
Series – Strapped Down: Restraint Chairs in Illinois Jails
The Illinois Answers Project found jail staff are restraining people in chairs in ways that often violate policies and last longer than recommended by manufacturers.
Series – Underwater in Illinois: Responses to Flooding
The Illinois Answers Project explores how prepared Chicago and the state are to combat the growing environmental threats its residents face, particularly from the problem of severe flooding.
