ROMEOVILLE – Lewis University Airport recently completed construction on a new air traffic control tower championed by State Senators Meg Loughran Cappel and Eric Mattson.

“This completed project shows our commitment to reinvigorating our infrastructure for the next generation,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I am happy to see the project completed just in time for the holiday travel season.”

The new tower not only will increase safety at the airport, but it will benefit airspace in the entire region, which includes Midway and O’Hare international airports, as well as provide enhanced training for aviation students at Lewis University. As the first air traffic control tower in Will County, it also will foster economic opportunity and new transport options in one of the fastest-growing parts of the state.

“Will County is one of the fastest growing areas in our state and we need to match that growth with investments in infrastructure,” said Mattson (D-Joliet). “Our future pilots will benefit from better security and communication that the tower will provide.”

The majority of the funding for this tower came from the historic Rebuild Illinois bipartisan infrastructure plan, which is investing a total of $150 million in aviation.

The new tower is set to open on December 1, 2022.

PLAINFIELD – The holiday season is among us, and State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is collecting toys for underprivileged children across Will County.

“Many of us take for granted our ability to give and receive gifts during the holidays – but the reality is, hundreds of children in our community go without them each year,” said Senator Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “This season, let’s not just think about our own families, but the families around us.”

Loughran Cappel’s office – located at 2009 Illinois Route 59 in Plainfield – will serve as a Toys for Tots drop-off location now through Dec. 16. Residents are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys for kids of all ages. The toys will be gifted to children in need throughout the holiday months.

The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute toys as Christmas gifts to children in the community.

For more information, call Loughran Cappel’s office at 815-267-6119.

SHOREWOOD – Whether people have questions about state resources or feedback on legislative priorities, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel enjoys meeting with residents of the 49^th District. To further connect with the community, Cappel is hosting a Coffee and Conversation event as well as traveling office hours.

During a Coffee and Conversation event on Thursday, Nov. 10, Cappel invites the community to join her at the White Oak Library District: Crest Hill Branch to discuss any thoughts or concerns they may have.

“In order for me to be an effective leader of the community, it’s pertinent I meet with people face-to-face and take in their needs, desires and concerns,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I have found the best way to connect with residents is through making myself accessible as often as possible. I look forward to joining residents for a cup of coffee and candid conversations.”

The Coffee and Conversation event will be held Thursday, Nov. 10 from 5-7 p.m. at the White Oak Library District: Crest Hill Branch, located at 20670 Len Kubinski Dr.

Each monthly Coffee and Conversation serves as an open forum for community members to engage in informal conversations with the senator and each other about issues facing the region and the state.

The following week – on Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Cappel encourages people to stop by the library to meet with a member of her office to receive assistance with state and local resources.

The events are free and open to area residents. Those with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Loughran Cappel’s Plainfield office at 815-267-6119 or visit her website at www.SenatorLoughranCappel.com.

SHOREWOOD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel urges area residents to show appreciation to emergency personnel on First Responders Day, which falls on Friday, Oct. 28.

“Every day, our first responders and their families make sacrifices to serve a cause greater than themselves,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “We should honor and thank our heroes not just during this day of recognition – but every day.”

First Responders Day specifically thanks 911 dispatchers, as well as firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians and paramedics for their commitment to Illinois public safety.

Loughran Cappel reminds residents to extend gratitude to first responders year-round for their dedication and remember those lost in the line of duty. 

“I will continue to work to ensure our first responders receive the recognition and resources they deserve for their dedication to our communities,” Loughran Cappel said. “I urge residents to thank our first responders year-round for their endless sacrifices to preserving our safety.” 

Cappel urges residents to recognize the contributions of first responders in their communities with ceremonies and activities.