"As we work towards modernizing our transit infrastructure as part of the American Jobs Plan, there is no state more ready to lead that effort than Illinois. Secretary Buttigieg is no stranger to the Midwest, and I'm honored to join my colleagues this week in welcoming him back to America's finest transportation hub," Congresswoman Marie Newman (IL-03) said in a written statement. "I look forward to showing him first-hand how the American Jobs Plan will not only create more efficient roads and railways in Chicago's communities but also bring much-needed economic development and new good-paying, union jobs." In their letter sent to the transportation secretary last month, the delegation of lawmakers invited Buttigieg to learn more about the innovative plans for the future transit across the state. Chicago is home to Chicago Midway and O'Hare International Airports, the Chicago Transit Authority and Metra, as well as miles of freight lines, establishing Illinois as a critical transportation hub. Additional support and coordination at the federal level are also needed, the delegation maintained.