With the overwhelming approval of the O'Hare expansion plan by the U.S. House, U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) is pledging not to abandon the interests of her constituents, especially those who live and work around the airport. 
Schakowsky supports the legislation, calling the expansion and modernization of the airport a "vital step forward in meeting the public's ever growing travel needs." 
"Just as important are the real life concerns, including noise and environmental pollution, gridlock and traffic, displacement and job losses of those living and working in neighborhoods, business, and schools near O'Hare." 
The House's 343 to 87 vote in favor of the bill is also getting praise from the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, which sees the legislation as a victory for business, the aviation system and the area economy. 
Chicagoland Chamber President and CEO Jerry Roper says the vote shows the strong bi-partisan support O'Hare expansion holds. 
"Let's not forget that O'Hare is the economic engine of the region's economy. The project to modernize O'Hare will be the largest public works program in Illinois, creating almost 200,000 jobs and infusing over $18 billion into the local economy. This legislation has its priorities straight. We need to modernize O'Hare first, then let the market create the need for a third airport, and we believe it will." Roper says to build Peotone first, and without major airline support, would lose O'Hare its status as a central transportation hub forever.