(Pictured: Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and students from Leo High School; credit: Governor JB Pritzker)

The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program partners are celebrating the fifth year of their commitment to enhancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education in Southside schools and educational institutions.

Supported by government agencies, educational institutions, and private entities, the CREATE Program represents a groundbreaking public-private partnership aimed at modernizing Chicago's transportation infrastructure. Partners include the U.S. Department of Transportation, State of Illinois, Cook County, City of Chicago, Metra, Amtrak, the Association of American Railroads along with freight railroads Norfolk Southern, BNSF, Belt Railway Company of Chicago, Canadian Pacific Kansas City, Canadian National, CSX, Indiana Harbor Belt, and Union Pacific. The program strives to eliminate bottlenecks, enhance safety, and stimulate economic growth in the region.

As part of the 75th Street Corridor Improvement Project (75th St. CIP), CREATE partners have allocated over $700,000 to support STEM initiatives across Chicago Public Schools, Leo High School, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Chicago Public Library through the Library Foundation.

This year marks the fifth consecutive year of grants, with $200,000 pledged for the 2024-2025 school year. Norfolk Southern contributed $100,000 to match the CREATE partners' donation. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker recently announced these grants during an event at Leo High School alongside leadership from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and CREATE Program partners.

A key partner in the CREATE Program, Norfolk Southern is focused on Chicago's long-term growth by investing in STEM education initiatives. This contribution reflects our dedication to education and nurturing talent within our local communities.

"Norfolk Southern is committed to the long-term growth and vitality of Chicago, understanding the critical role STEM education plays in shaping the future workforce," said NS Director Corporate Giving Kristin Wong. "We're proud to partner with Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Public Library Foundation, investing in the innovators and leaders of tomorrow within our communities."

During the event, Governor Pritzker emphasized the importance of STEM education in shaping future leaders and innovators. The full event recording can be watched here.

“The impact of CREATE goes beyond any economic indicators. It lies in the way it has connected and invested in our people – from workforce development to community improvement projects and of course, STEM education,” said Governor Pritzker. “Thanks to this funding, students here in Englewood and across the 75th Street Corridor are gaining exposure to new career paths and learning the skills needed to thrive in the economy of tomorrow. At their core, these programs foster curiosity and creativity, helping students turn their ingenuity into innovation and action.”

With a focus on the 75th St. CIP, CREATE's education commitment aims to provide resources and opportunities to schools and students in the project's vicinity. Through strategic investments and partnerships, CREATE is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for Chicago and beyond.