Good afternoon, Chicago.
A regulatory battle over the subterranean network of century-old gas pipes buried beneath the streets of Chicago is entering the final rounds, with billions of dollars, safety concerns and the future of the city’s energy infrastructure riding on the outcome.
Filings last week in the ongoing Illinois Commerce Commission investigation into the paused Peoples Gas pipeline replacement program heated up arguments over the scope of the massive undertaking, ranging from just repairing leaks to upgrading the whole system.
Here’s what else is happening today. And remember, for the latest breaking news in Chicago, visit chicagotribune.com/latest-headlines and sign up to get our alerts on all your devices.
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Chicago faces nearly $1B budget gap in 2025: ‘There are sacrifices that will be made’
Chicago is staring down a $982.4 million shortfall next year, Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration projected Wednesday in a grim preview of the upcoming budget season. Read more here.
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Downtown lodging industry was big winner during last week’s DNC, thanks to higher room rates and full hotels
Hotel room occupancy in Chicago’s central business district increased between 9% and 20% on the days of the convention when compared with the same time last year, according to CoStar data. Read more here.
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Demolition for Block 59 development in Naperville nearly finished
Wrigleyville 5-bedroom home with 2 decks: $3.3M
6 things we learned from Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles, including his belief in Matt Eberflus and satisfaction with Caleb Williams’ growth
General manager Ryan Poles expressed optimism for the upcoming season with a roster he believes now has the talent and depth to compete for a playoff spot. Read more here.
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‘Mountains’ review: In Miami’s Little Haiti, a family wonders if gentrification is the American dream
Set in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood, it’s one of those films that makes you walk around your own city, your own neighborhood or someone else’s, with more perceptive eyes. Read more here.
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Harris, Walz will sit down for first major television interview of their presidential campaign
The interview with CNN’s Dana Bash will give Harris a chance to quell criticism that she has eschewed uncontrolled environments, while also giving her a fresh platform to define her campaign and test her political mettle ahead of an upcoming debate with former President Donald Trump. Read more here.
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