Chicago South Suburban Airport (Peotone)

Chicago South Suburban Airport is a new airport construction project designed to be a cargo-only facility. Upon completion, the airport will become the third major airport serving the Chicago city region. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has produced an Airport Master Plan for the airport that is now under review by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This master plan will be used to create the facility, and officials expect full FAA approval in 2013. The private sector is highly likely to be involved, in an investment capacity, as the cost is probably out of the reach of the state at USD1 billion.

Feb-2024. The Illinois legislature having passed House Bill 2531 in the summer of 2023, requiring the Illinois Department of Transportation to launch a prequalification process for a public-private partnership to develop the long-planned South Suburban Airport, in mid-Feb-2024, the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce told legislators that the airport is its “top infrastructure priority” for 2024. The focus of the planned airport has changed from the original idea as a supplement to O’Hare and Midway to a primarily air cargo airport. Illinois DOT reports it is working on a request for proposals for the project, with an 01-Jul-2024 target date.

May-2023. US Congresswoman Robin Kelly announced the Illinois State Senate passed a measure which requires the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to begin the process of engaging private developers interested in constructing the Chicago South Suburban Airport. 

Jun-2017. Illinois Mayors wrote a letter to Governor Bruce Rauner requesting that he "move forward quickly in seeking a development partner" for the planned South Suburban Airport. Six firms expressed interest in developing the airport but all want assurance of government support before they will commit to the project.

May-2017. Chicago South Suburban Airport received interest from six developers. The Illinois...