The Voice

Bringing new life to a forgotten subdivision R1 and Habitat for Humanity partner to build 30 homes on Rockford’s west side By Michael Dunn Jr., Region 1 Planning Council From empty dirt lots to blocks of inviting, move-in ready homes, the Emerson Estates subdivision, located south of Auburn and Springfield Avenue, has seen a transformation…

The results of their labor My appreciation for the building and construction trades By Angela Kay Larson, CEO, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce I grew up in a 100-year-old farmhouse near Peoria, Illinois. My dad was an OG DIY-er, and my mom subscribed to Architectural Digest. He worked in the tool room at Caterpillar, and…

Coworking space Seven reasons why you’re not using it but should be By Laura Pierce, Irontek Beloit For many remote workers, entrepreneurs, and freelancers, finding the right place to work can be a challenge. If you’re growing weary of the at-home distractions or the struggles of trying to focus in a loud coffee shop, a…

A nonprofit’s approach to construction Lessons from Stateline Youth for Christ’s new building project By Haddon Anderson, Stateline Youth For Christ A nonprofit’s approach to a construction project involves unique considerations. This year, our team at Stateline Youth For Christ began the construction of a new youth center on Charles Street. We learned a lot…

Blueprints for change Realtors, developers, and civic leaders discuss housing challenges in the region By Christine Hand, managing editor It’s no secret that the Rockford region is at a pivotal moment in housing and development. At a recent forum facilitated by the Region 1 Planning Council (R1), local realtors and developers discussed the needs and…

The value of practical skills Harlem High School’s construction program builds futures By Melissa Hagerman, Harlem High School Harlem High School recognizes that in today’s rapidly evolving job market, students need practical skills to prepare for their futures. To achieve this, Harlem allows high school students to pick a pathway of interest—one which tailors their…

Guiding small businesses to long-term success For SBDC, every week is National Small Business Week Nate Jordan, Rock Valley College Small Business Development Center National Small Business Week (May 4-10) is an ideal time to celebrate the passion and resilience of the local entrepreneurs who help drive our regional economy forward. At the Rock Valley…

Record high infrastructure projects Making Rockford more accessible to residents and visitors By John Groh, GoRockford Driving through the city of Rockford right now, you will witness a dizzying amount of roadwork. That’s because investment in our infrastructure—starting with Rockford’s streets, sidewalks, sewers and water mains, bridges, and bike paths—is at a record high. A…

Local roots and a global reach Many businesses in our area quietly contribute to global industries, while maintaining strong local roots. One such company, Aqua-Aerobic Systems, has not only thrived in Rockford for five decades but is also playing a pivotal role in revolutionizing water treatment technology—locally, nationally, and internationally. As the company undergoes a…

Government Affairs Committee update The newly formed Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) Government Affairs Committee is tasked with helping Chamber members get to know their local government and helping local officials—and the voting public—better understand the needs of the business community. Any individual or business concerned about promoting a pro-business economic environment in the…