Communications director Emily Hampsten: “While Sen. Durbin is proud of the federal funding he has helped secure over the years to help expand cargo operations and create jobs at RFD, the access road project in question is not being funded with federal money.” OCT 28, 2021 (before construction was delayed)

“I continue to encourage both sides to meet on a solution that is in the best interest of the environment, regional jobs, and economic development. Today’s announcement [to delay construction until March] is a good first step." OCT 28, 2021 (after the construction delay was announced)

“Bell Bowl Prairie is a 22-acre prairie near Rockford International Airport. It is one of the last remaining areas of the Prairie State, reflecting the character and nature of the state before most of Illinois was turned into cultivated agricultural land. Rockford Airport recently undertook plans to expand due to the growth of cargo flights and as its status as an emerging commercial aircraft repair hub. As part of this expansion, a new access road was planned that would cut through the middle of Bell Bowl Prairie. Construction that was slated to begin in October of 2021 has been suspended, and the project has been put on hold until March 1, 2022, as environmental concerns are reviewed. I hope that the airport's plans can be adjusted so that Bell Bowl Prairie can be preserved while allowing Rockford Airport to continue to expand and serve as an economic anchor for the Rockford community.” FEB 2, 2022

— Senator Dick Durbin

“As Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water and Wildlife, I am committed to restoring critical habitats, protecting wildlife and conserving native biodiversity. That is why I strongly support conservation programs such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund, the Antiquities Act and the Endangered Species Act. These vital initiatives protect critical species and millions of acres of public land that serve as habitats for America’s unique wildlife. Please be assured I have made careful notes of your views regarding the Bell Bowl Prairie and I will continue to monitor the Federal Aviation Administration’s consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make sure the GRAA project complies with the Endangered Species Act.” NOV 4, 2021

Duckworth office staff: “Our team is planning a meeting with representatives from FAA and FWS to get more insight on the Bell Bowl Prairie for either the end of this week or early next.” FEB 8, 2022

— Senator Tammy Duckworth

“While I believe the construction of the airport is a critical part of Rockford's economic success and future development, as development continues, we must protect the surrounding environment. It is my hope that we can find common sense solutions to encourage economic growth while preserving our environment and protecting our communities for future generations to come. You may be pleased to know that due to concerns for the Bell Bowl Prairie, construction on this land was suspended until Spring 2022 for the situation to be further evaluated. I'm glad steps have been taken to protect endangered species in the area, and will continue to support efforts to move forward responsibly. As a friend of the environment, I understand your support for the continued preservation of the Bell Bowl Prairie. Please be assured I will keep your views in mind as I continue to monitor this situation.” OCT 29, 2021

— Representative Cheri Bustos

We are unaware of a response from Mayor Jury to the revised expansion plans proposed by several Bell Bowl Prairie advocates. Advocates have proposed the expansion continue while protecting its sensitive environmental features. We are unsure who he is responding to with this confusing statement which refers to multiple lawsuits.

“Former Notre Dame Coach Lou Holtz once said: ‘In this world, you are either growing or you’re dying, so let’s get in motion and grow.’ … What we should all keep in mind is that the airport is owned by the people within the airport authority district. It is a taxpayer asset that is only good as it is utilized and leveraged to become full capacity. The airport is on a path toward that but, unfortunately, they have been slowed down by a handful of objectors who have filed lawsuits [sic]. … The airport is a key cog in our supply chain, and we should not get further behind.” JAN 9, 2022

“It’s all going to be concrete someday anyway.” APR 2022

— Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury