The Midwest has been targeted by the Obama Administration for development of high-speed passenger rail service, with downtown Chicago serving as the network’s main hub. How would such service benefit downtown? What are the prospects and stumbling blocks for making the plans reality?

Friends of Downtown and the IHC invite you to learn more from Joseph Schwieterman, professor of public service at DePaul University and board president of the Midwest High Speed Rail Association.

This event is free and open to the public.  However, registration is required and can be made online.

Founded in 1981, Friends of Downtown is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating downtown Chicago. Friends of Downtown has held monthly lunchtime lectures for decades featuring a wide array of speakers including public officials, preservationists, authors, cultural figures, urban planners, and architects.

This event is presented as part of The Collaborative City, a program of the Illinois Humanities Council, in partnership with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and co-sponsored by Friends of Downtown.

If you need a sign interpreter or require other arrangements to fully participate, please call 312.422.5580 at least 72 hours prior to the event. For parking locations near the facility, please visit ChicagoParkingMap.com.