Airlines agree to O’Hare expansion

“Today we reaffirm our support of Mayor Daley and our shared vision for a world-class airport at O’Hare,” American President Gerard Arpey said in a statement.
 
“At the same time, the parties have crafted a plan that recognizes the turbulent conditions of our industry and allows us to continue a dialogue with the City over the best timing and pacing of construction going forward. As a result, we believe this agreement will benefit consumers, our shareholders and employees and the communities that we serve throughout the country for years to come,” Arpey said.
 
The deal was touted Monday by Illinois Sens. Dick Durbin (D) and Mark Kirk (R).
 
“Great news for O’Hare modernization. Project will attract business and create jobs,” Kirk said on his Twitter account.
 
“Shortly after the lawsuit against the city was filed, Senator Kirk and I met with airlines and encouraged them to sit down with the city and work out an agreement,” Durbin said in a statement.
 
“There were many who were skeptical that a deal could be reached, but fortunately Mayor Daley was not one of them. I commend him and the CEOs of both airlines for their commitment to working hard to resolve their differences outside the courtroom. I also want to thank Secretary LaHood for engaging and bringing everyone together to reach today’s deal — which is good news for the City of Chicago,” Durbin said.
 
Bids for work on the project will be accepted beginning Wednesday at Chicago City Hall. The portion of work in the modernization project agreed to Monday is expected to cost $1.17 billion.